GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE
Academics

Middle School

Welcome to Gerstell Academy's Middle School! We believe in developing positive leaders of character with a strong traditional academic background in fundamental knowledge and a life-long love of physical fitness. These critical years serve as balance between the nurturing environment of lower school and the more competitive and independent college preparatory upper school.
Gerstell Academy Middle School focuses on the acquisition of leadership skills, character development, mastery of fundamental knowledge, and appropriate social skills. Leadership skills and knowledge provide the foundation for the curriculum and permeate the daily activities at Gerstell. Our middle school students are provided with a rich academic background focused on the development of leadership skills that will last a lifetime. Through the application of our Leadership Principles and Attributes, our students develop a clear vision of themselves and their responsibility to others.

It is our belief that the environment established at Gerstell, along with the leadership and academic education provides the opportunity for students to continually test and apply their knowledge and skills, guiding them to flourish during these critical years.
The Gerstell Academy Advisory Program

The purpose of the Advisory Program is to provide leadership and guidance to middle and upper school students in a small group setting to support the leadership, academic, and social growth of each student and the advisory as a whole. The advisor serves as the first point of contact for student questions, suggestions, or concerns. Each class has several advisors who assist in planning class events and trips while maintaining an overall awareness of the day-to-day wellbeing of the group. Advisory meets daily and provides for a one-to-one mentoring relationship between advisor and advisee. Advisors also serve as advocates for their students and are often the first point of contact for parents.

Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor whenever there is a need or concern. Whenever possible, and as necessary and appropriate, advisors will attend and participate in any parent or administrative meetings reflecting on their advisees.  

The Middle School Advisory Program

The Advisory meets daily for twenty-five minutes and is a critical portion of the Middle School Leadership Program. It provides consistent coaching and mentoring for every student through a curriculum designed to enhance each student’s effectiveness and growth as a leader and student. The curriculum is built around a consistent weekly schedule with each day of the week designated for a specific purpose.

Topics may include lessons on the Gerstell Leadership Model, organizational strategies, study skills, and may provide time for designated tutorials, study hall, and team bonding activities. 
Advisors will speak to their students about their week often sharing highs and lows and students will participate in team-bonding activities. Friday in advisory is also the designated time for birthday celebrations and other fun events.

During Leadership assemblies the middle school meets to focus on lessons centered on the Gerstell Academy Leadership Model. These assemblies promote a spirit of community in which students are recognized for their achievements and upcoming event details are shared. Guest speakers and student leaders also address the student body.

    • Middle School STEM Instructor at Gerstell Academy in Baltimore
2500 Old Westminster Pike
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300