Middle School At a Glance

Academic Highlights

Our thoughtfully planned curriculum, which includes extensive offerings in English, history, mathematics, science, technology, visual and performing arts, health and wellness and world language, cultivates both academic skills and independent study habits. Eclectic electives include a study of Shakespeare, public speaking, ethics, and robotics. All academic subjects are overseen by the Director of Studies to ensure scope and sequence across all grade levels.

Spaces

Our campus offers state-of-the-art classrooms and university-level science and computer labs. We also house a Music Wing, with vocal, instrumental, and practice rooms. Atwood Hall acts as the main space for academic and social gatherings, while the Arts Center has a theater, gallery, and dance studio. Our campus also has outdoor spaces for alternative classroom learning.

Technology

Our 1:1 Laptop Program integrates the latest digital technologies into every class, discussion, project and activity while teaching critical online safety and 21st-century communication skills.

Physical Education & Athletics

We offer a comprehensive physical education program for Grades 6-8, with 9 interscholastic teams for Grades 7 and 8. Facilities include two multipurpose synthetic turf fields, a field house, a weight room, and tennis courts.

Clubs, Activities & Community Service

Students participate in a variety of clubs, publications and — of course — government, all of which build self-esteem and interpersonal and leadership skills. Seventh- and eighth-graders are invited to coed dances each school year and to social events at our peer schools. Myriad community service opportunities encourage students to think early, deeply and often about giving their time and talents to helping others.

Enrollment & Ratio

6–8 Enrollment
Approximately 150 students

Student-to-Faculty Ratio
7:1

After-School Program

Our optional 3:30 Club meets on school days from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. for study time, computer time, library time, and enrichment programs including theater, dance, and chess.

Dress Code

Our “Uniform with Choice” policy for the Primary and Middle Schools establishes consistency in dress, while allowing students to express creativity and individuality.

Dining Hall

Delicious, nutritious soups, sandwiches, salads and more — served in an environmentally conscious, allergy-aware dining hall.
Kent Place School is an all-girls K through 12 independent college preparatory day school with a coeducational Preschool, located in Summit, NJ.

  • TEST WHAT'S "EXPECTED."

    That's our mantra in robotics. Try crazy things, be free with your ideas, and see what happens. If you're going to build the future, you'll need to be a pioneer. –Emma, seventh grade

  • LEAN INTO DIFFICULTY.

    When it comes to academics, it pays to challenge yourself. I'm in the Bioethics Symposium, presenting research on the ethics of genetically-enhanced intelligence. At times it's daunting—research, deadlines, time management—but it's also a whole new way of thinking. Very independent and "you-driven." –Isabella, sophomore

  • OWN YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE

    It's one of the "conversation norms" we have at Kent Place, and it's always resonated with me. Everyone has a different and equally valid perspective to bring to the table—so put yourself out there. –Mary, senior

  • DON’T THINK YOU’RE GOING TO GET A LABEL.

    There are no jocks here at Kent Place, no science geeks, no theater nerds. Last month a varsity athlete went to sing at the Vatican. Everyone here has some unique quality — and they’re amazing at what they do. –Claire, senior

  • REACH BEYOND WHAT YOU THINK YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH.

    You'll face plenty of challenges, but push through them. Brilliant women use their resources: their teachers, our studios and library and, of course, each other. If you're stuck, collaboration can almost always get you across the finish line. –Suzanne Carreno-Powers, Math Teacher and STEM Coordinator

  • GET READY FOR RIGOROUS WORK.

    And multiple extracurricular activities. Busy days, and a few late nights. But through it all, don’t lose your sense of fun. –Alessandra, junior

  • MAKE CONNECTIONS.

    KPS alumnae are amazing. I met one alumna after a math and science panel who works in retail architecture. That made me think about a cool way to combine two of my interests — math and fashion. –Amber, junior

  • YOUR TIME AT KPS IS GOING TO OPEN UP OPTIONS YOU HADN'T EVEN THOUGHT ABOUT.

    And when it's time to choose, you're going to know yourself so well, you'll pick the college that's the best fit for you—academically, socially, personally. So don't get tunnel vision. This is your process. Just know that you'll be ready! –Jennifer Simpson, Director of College Advising

  • SOLVING PROBLEMS IS A JOURNEY, ENJOY THE RIDE!

    In the Middle School we do a Science Expo—either two or four people work on a science project for a couple of months and then present it to the entire class. We go into some in-depth projects and it’s incredible what we learn along the way, and how willing our teachers are to help us through the tough parts. –Toni Ann, eighth grade

  • SPEAK YOUR MIND.

    Every girl here learns from an early age how to speak up and speak to adults. You never feel silly raising your hand, and you’re given lots of opportunities to speak publicly. I’m never shy about saying what’s on my mind. –Vittoria, fourth grade

  • ETHICS WILL CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE OUTLOOK.

    Right away, we tackled questions of "right versus right." We're learning to look at every issue from both sides, which helps with everything from homework to friendships. –Elizabeth, eighth grade