Advisory The Middle School advisory program is designed with four goals in mind: to support students’ academic success, to create a positive school culture, to support the unique challenges of Middle School, and to provide a network of advocates (including advisors and teachers) for each student in the Middle School. It is a place where students engage, relax, play games, get to know each other and their advisors, and have some fun. Advisory lessons and activities seek to provide authentic learning experiences that enrich each student’s academic learning experience at University Liggett School. This is further supported by the small size of advisories - approximately six to nine students to one advisor, allowing all students to have an adult advocate throughout their Middle School years. Advisors serve as the first point of contact if parents or guardians have concerns about their students. Although parent or guardian input concerning a student’s advisory placement is considered, the Middle School administration cannot promise or guarantee requests and reserves the right to make all advisory placement decisions. House System The University Liggett Middle School has adopted a house system as a way to build community and promote positive multi-age and cross-grade level relationships. At the beginning of each school year, new Middle School students are sorted into one of six houses, Harry Potter-style. Each house is populated by a cross-section of students from all grade levels, teachers, and an honorary member of our administration, providing opportunities for students, regardless of age, to lead and showcase their strengths through projects, service initiatives and friendly competitions throughout the year.
Outdoor Education Middle School students participate in a signature outdoor education experience each school year. Since 1972, the sixth grade has embarked on a week-long immersion experience, currently at Pleasant Lake near Imlay City, Michigan. Students are introduced to a variety of outdoor skills (including canoeing, horsemanship, and orienteering) through medieval-themed activities. The seventh-grade outing provides students with opportunities to build teamwork skills, learn about gratitude, and explore what it means to be a positive community member. Eighth graders begin the school year with a three day, place-based experience that introduces the geography of Michigan, demonstrates how people interact with their environment, and allows students to become better historians, writers, scientists, and mathematicians through research in the field. The experience also provides a collaborative experience for eighth graders early in the school year. Inclusive Co-Curricular Activities Middle School students have an opportunity to participate in a number of co-curricular activities throughout the school year, including a variety of athletic teams, FTC robotics, theater, Knights Math Club, and Girls Solve It. The Middle School has a “no cut” policy which encourages students of all abilities to participate and learn teamwork, collaboration, and sportsmanship skills. Practices and meetings take place Monday through Thursday after school. Occasionally, optional Friday practices are offered by coaches or mentors. Athletic games are held once or twice a week during the season. For some sports, there is an occasional weekend tournament. University Liggett Middle School has a high participation rate for co-curriculars and we encourage our students to get involved for the social opportunities and healthy exercise. Students are notified about signing up for co-curricular activities during morning meeting and sign-up forms are sent via email.
2024-2025 ULS Curriculum Guide
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