Breadcrumbs

Middle School

The Middle School offers a caring and academically rich environment in which all students are challenged to pursue their passions and reach their potential. Middle school is a time marked by great change in an individual’s life. During these years, adolescents develop their sense of self and their relationship with the world around them. Our community of caring and talented educators is committed to nurturing, inspiring and challenging each student at this important stage of his or her development.

Our academic program is rigorous and focused on the cultivation of deep and meaningful understanding. Students are challenged to think, question, express and create, and to transform their ideas into action. Learning in the ASL Middle School is hands-on, active and collaborative. Our student-centered approach recognizes learners as individuals, each with his or her unique journey of discovery ahead. The program of study consists of major courses in English, mathematics, social studies, world languages, science, physical education, music and the arts. A rich variety of elective courses in technology, visual and performing arts, and community service allows meaningful exploration and the pursuit of personal interests. 

The learning environment at ASL is shaped by a positive and nurturing community. Students work closely with each other and support one another’s learning. The ASL Core Values of respect, responsibility, kindness, integrity and the courage to act guide our interactions and foster our group identity. In support of these values, a strong advisory program is central to the ASL middle school experience. Our advisories foster strong relationships among students and their advisors, and create a safe environment for emotional and academic support. 

We welcome you to the Middle School and to the wonderful journey that these years offer.
Peter Lutkoski, Middle School Principal

Peter Lutkoski joined ASL in 2003 as a middle and high school music teacher, later serving for six years as the head of the K-12 Performing Arts Department. Prior to his time at ASL, Peter was a faculty member at The American School of The Hague. He has served on the faculty of the Harvard Graduate School of Education Project Zero Classroom. Peter is a past president of the Executive Board for The Association for Music in International Schools and served on the Board of Directors of the Conductors Retreat at Medomak. He co-founded the SHINE-ASL educational enrichment program for academically borderline students in London, and he currently maintains an active schedule as a workshop presenter and author on topics related to arts and learning. Peter received his B.M. and M.M.E in music education from the Oberlin Conservatory.