Welcome!

As you step through the front doors of Whitaker-Bement at The Williston Northampton School, it is quickly evident that there is something special about this place. Here, faculty work hard to get to know each and every child, to create an environment where discussion and dialogue are welcomed, where asking questions is expected, and where middle school students are loved and appreciated. By working and learning together, we make the middle school experience exciting and indeed, special.

The preadolescent years are a unique time, characterized by a distinct developmental phase that can be both confusing and extraordinary to students and families alike. Williston's Middle School, which consists of grades seven and eight, has approximately 45 students per grade. With class size averaging 15, students get to know their teachers and peers well. These relationships are critical to a powerful and successful middle school experience. Many of the friendships made during these two years often last a lifetime.

The Whitaker-Bement Center, fondly known as WB, is alive and buzzing with the sounds of students and faculty. A look on one floor might reveal small groups working together on projects, math classes grappling with new concepts, and students leaning over microscopes in science labs. A look on another could show advisory groups planning their next community service trip, and teachers and students passionately engaged in conversations, debate and laughter. Each interaction offers varied opportunities to learn, change and grow in an appropriately challenging and caring environment.

Although the Middle School is a distinct component of the larger Williston community, we also share wonderful facilities with the upper school: the theater, library, student center, sports facilities and most of the academic buildings. We are fortunate to be a part of an upper school so rich in challenge and opportunity, as we also create a separate community in the Middle school. Recognizing that with such community comes responsibility, we stress the importance of giving back, of caring for others and ourselves. Thus, along with the challenges and rigors of academics, we prepare our students to be active citizens of the world.

This is an exciting time in a young person's life, one filled with lifelong possibilities. We are ready and eager for the challenge of making the most of each and every one. We look forward to welcoming you to The Williston Northampton School.

Sincerely,
Jen Fulcher
Head of the Middle School