Stories
Embracing independence and growth in Aspen Country Day’s Middle School
October 4, 2024
A new Aspen Country Day School era debuted at the beginning of the 2024-25 school year with the appointment of Mark Bosick as Head of Middle School. Mark brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in nurturing the unique needs of early adolescents via an approach grounded in brain science. He begins with the understanding that middle school is not just a transitional phase, but a critical period for identity formation, independence, and personal growth.
Mark’s vision is not just about building on the school’s current academic successes; it’s about further cultivating ACDS’s vibrant community of learners. The Middle School faculty is working to enhance the atmosphere where students, educators, and families work together towards common goals. By focusing on intentional communication, clearer norms, and an even more robust collaborative spirit, the aim is to ensure that everyone understands the direction the school is heading.
The Four MILESTONES of Middle School
ACDS is reimagining its middle years program through four foundational milestones: Identity, Independence, Metacognition, and Advocacy. These milestones are not merely theoretical concepts; they are practical frameworks that guide students as they navigate the often tumultuous waters of adolescence.
Identity: Discovering the Self
“Middle schoolers are in a constant state of self-discovery, seeking to understand who they are and how they fit into the world around them,” Mark said. “Our faculty emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment where students can try on different styles and express themselves freely. This safe space fosters a moral compass and encourages students to build supportive relationships.”
“Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Graders are passionate about fairness and often question rules and decisions. By involving them in discussions and encouraging them to voice their thoughts, the school fosters a sense of agency.”
Mark Bosick, Head of Middle School
Independence: Building Confidence
The journey towards independence is another crucial aspect of this philosophy. “Our faculty wants to empower early adolescents to take on more responsibility,” Mark said. “By shifting away from traditional practices, such as escorting students from class to class, ACDS encourages young learners to navigate their environment confidently. We want students to feel capable of managing their time, understanding their schedules, and embracing their growing autonomy.”
Metacognition: Learning How to Learn
An often overlooked yet vital milestone is metacognition—helping students understand how they learn best. “The ACDS approach encourages students to reflect on their learning processes, recognizing their strengths and identifying areas for growth,” Mark said. “This self-awareness not only enhances academic performance but also equips students with tools to advocate for themselves. When they arrive in high school, Country Day graduates will be ready to put this important skill to use daily.”
Advocacy: Empowering Voices
Lastly, advocacy is central to ACDS’s Middle School vision. “Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Graders are passionate about fairness and often question rules and decisions. By involving them in discussions and encouraging them to voice their thoughts, the school fosters a sense of agency,” Mark said. “Students learn to advocate not only for themselves but for others, building a community where everyone’s voice matters.”
Looking Ahead
As Mark settles into his role at ACDS, he carries with him a profound respect for the challenges and triumphs that define tweens and young teens. His blend of warmth, experience, and thoughtful leadership promises to further strengthen ACDS as a nurturing sanctuary where young learners can thrive.
With the four milestones guiding the journey ahead, ACDS Middle Schoolers are poised to embrace their identities, cultivate independence, enhance their learning strategies, and advocate for themselves and others. It’s not just about getting through middle school; it’s about celebrating a beautiful, messy, and transformative time in their lives.