“Coming from a competitive school in the city, I wasn’t sure what to expect at a Buddhist school in Upstate New York, was it going to be rigorous enough? Would my child remain on par? I could not be more thrilled to see how fully my child is learning and how confident he has become. He now enjoys reading and his handwriting has improved, he’s doing mental math above his grade level. And on top of that, his genuine kindness is shining through brighter than ever. Thank you!”
ABOUT
Founded in 2017, The Middle Way School of the Hudson Valley is one of the first Buddhist preparatory schools for children in the West. Our mission is to empower students to take their places in the modern world. Our pedagogy and school culture draw upon foundational Buddhist teachings and traditions as well as the latest research in child development, neuroscience, and technology. MWS offers an exceptional education, creating conditions for wisdom and compassion to flourish.
ACADEMICS
We view education as a natural learning process that engages children’s innate potential and provides a way to understand the phenomenal world with grace and humor. Our students play, contemplate, engage with text and numbers, and are encouraged to use inquiry as the foundation for academic achievement. Our developmental approach to teaching and learning is highly personalized so that each student is experiences a balance of challenge and accomplishment. The aim is to tap into students’ intrinsic joy of learning while supporting their social, emotional and spiritual growth.
ADMISSIONS
The Middle Way School thrives on the principle of inclusion. We actively seek to build a community that is rich with diverse cultures, races, talents, interests, learning profiles, and economic and ethnic backgrounds. MWS is a pilot school with the support of a global community of friends and foundations who wish to see us succeed. Because of their support, we are able to offer ample financial aid to meet families needs. More than $100,000 in aid was given in 2019.
DAILY AND WEEKLY HAPPENINGS AT MIDDLE WAY SCHOOL
Vichitapol “Ta” Pholpoke, CEO founder of Teach for Thailand, paid a special visit to the Middle Way School this week. His inspiration to launch the organization stemmed from the opportunities available to him as a result of his own privileged background in an international school setting. Ta is committed to providing access to high-quality educational experiences for all Thais.
With Middle Way Education supporting the launch of a school in Bangkok, we are pleased to be deepening our ties with the country. And we are delighted to be the lab school of this MWE model of education. Ta was able to sit in on a curriculum planning meeting with MWS teachers, iterating the latest benchmarks and standards. It is essential to have a living and breathing example of Buddhist education for children in order for this model to take shape.
May this global collaboration be a benefit to all!
___
@teachforthailand @middlewayedu @kyentsefoundation #buddhism #buddhisteducationforchildren #collaboration #workingtogether #globalconnections #educationalinitiative #nysais #hudsonvalleyschools
Throughout the year, Middle Way parents, caregivers, and staff members are invited to learn alongside the children. Through the school-led Dharma Committee, we collaborate to organize opportunities for families so they can interact with buddhist teachings in meaningful ways.
Families may choose to participate in a weekly meditation or attend one of many special events. Teachers, scholars, lineage holders and meditation instructors are invited to facilitate discussions on topics that align with those studied by the children—such as refuge and impermanence. There are so many modern approaches to timeless ideas—movement, visual art, performance, cooking, book club, and more. These experiences are very enriching!
THANK YOU to the Dharma Committee for the thoughtful work you do in service of the school. Thank you to the collective community of parents and caregivers for showing up with an open mind. Thank you to the children for inspiring us all to connect.
___
@middlewayedu @kyentsefoundation #buddhism #dharmaforamodernage #learningalongsideourchildren #wholechild #bridgingschoolandhomelife #upstateny #sangha #beyondtheclassroom #lifelonglearners #sharingideas
As visitors have arrived on campus this week, they’ve been welcomed by a beautiful new garden space—lovingly landscaped by Middle Way parents and caregivers. A gift of the Parent Community Association using funds raised at the annual Plant Sale, the space was designed and built with the guidance of Garden Keepers.
Unconfined by its border, the garden lives in harmony with its surroundings. It’s an invitation to pause and a prompt to connect. Pebbles flow around boulders; a small tree feathers toward the sky. It is a quiet picture of gratitude from a community of support.
Thank you to the families who put their time and energy into this creation so that everyone may enjoy it!
___
@middlewayschoolpca #gratitudegarden #gardenkeepersny #natureinthecatskills #saugerties #perspective #pause #generosity #middleway #stonesoup #parentsrock
The first day of school—what a FULL day!! It’s a day of exploration, with a rainbow of emotions for children and grownups alike. There are new spaces to encounter, possibilities to imagine, and friendships to nurture—both fresh and familiar. Each year is a blank canvas, awaiting a creative collaboration between teachers, students, and families. It was so beautiful to see this commence on campus.
Here’s to a great year together! May the lessons we learn and the experiences we share be a benefit to all.
___
#firstdayofschool #saugertiesschools #newbeginnings #buddhisteducationforchildren #upstateny #takingyourseat #campuscollaboration #sangha #freshandfamiliar #hudsonvalleyalternativeschools #hudsonvalleyfamilies
Family Work Day! Thank you to our amazing group of parents, caregivers, children, and staff who spent their Labor Day helping to prepare our campus for returning students. Many hands made for light work—sanding, priming, painting, weeding, and more. There was definitely a little playing, too! Our school would not be so unique without the cheerful generosity of families. THANK YOU for the time, energy, and positivity you gave on your day off!!
___
#FamilyWorkDay #hudsonvalleykids #hudsonvalleyprivateschools #LaborDayPlans #buildingsomethingtogether #bestindependentschool #parentsandcaregivers #saugerties #upstateny @middlewayschoolpca @middlewayedu
It’s a Middle Way tradition to start the new school year with a tea party in the woods! A lovely chance to meet new classmates and teachers, the day also invites everyone to take in the learning space with a laid-back joy. As families arrive, they are invited to experience the Offering Trail that winds through the forest. Traditional offerings like flowers and scented water are shared as we set our intentions for the year ahead. Students light a little candle with their teacher to represent the spark of learning and wisdom. This year, we were especially thankful the sunshine and breeze also showed up to mingle!
What a special way to orient ourselves as one.
___
#orientation #eightauspiciousofferings #argham #padyam #pushpe #dhupe #aloke #ghande #navidhya #shabda #buddhisteducationforchildren #elementaryschoolinthecatskills #upstateny @kyentsefoundation @middlewayedu
To prepare for the school year, Middle Way staff gathered at the nearby Karma Triyana Dharmachakra (KTD) monastery to reconnect. Situated at the top of the mountain overlooking our region, the sacred space invited us to start the year with a fresh perspective. We soaked up the stillness of the morning mist and discussed the guiding principles of the school.
Thank you to monastery president Lama Lodro Lhamo, Lama Yongten, and the kindness of everyone we encountered there. We are grateful for the space to gather, and for the delicious lunch that was shared with us.
___
#fieldtrip #karmatriyanadharmachakra #ktdmonastery #woodstockny #catskillmountains #upstateny #buddhisteducationforchildren #professionaldevelopmentday #teachingandlearning #newperspectives @kyentsefoundation
What a delightful day spent at the Kingston Farmers Market getting to know the farmers, makers, and community shakers in our area! Thanks to everyone who stopped by to speak with us about the Middle Way School. We offered treats and flower bouquets and connected with our neighbors. Kingston is such a vibrant city, bursting with good vibes. Many thanks to @kingstonfarmersmarket for sharing the opportunity with us!
Stop by the Kingston Farmers Market today and chat with us! (Sat., Aug. 12, 9am-1pm) there’s plenty of lemonade, fresh fruit, and oatmeal cookies. We’d love to answer any questions you might have about the Middle Way School. Did we mention there are cookies?
Curious about the Middle Way School? This weekend, we’ll be at the Kingston Farmers Market to connect with our neighbors, share experiences, and answer questions. Look for us on Sat, Aug. 12 (9 to 1). We’ll have lemonade and snacks to share along with friendly conversation. We’re looking forward to visiting with you!
——
#bestindependentschool #community #farmersmarket #kingstonhappenings #kingstonny #hudsonvalleyschools #progressiveeducation #hudsonvalleyprivateschools #upstateny #catskills #buddhistelementary #outdoorclassroom #saugerties #outinthefield #fieldtrip
Still contemplating your child’s plan for the fall? The Middle Way School—voted Best Independent School in the Hudson Valley—might be just the right fit.
In the cherished opinion of an enrolled family, "The education provided at Middle Way is awe-inspiring; cultivating a creative and playful lens into the learning of math and science, while also holding an equal appreciation for the natural world through art, music, play, and nature-based education. As a family, we continually feel a deep sense of gratitude and peace in knowing we are a part of such an intentional and thriving school.”
While many of our classes are full, a few spots are open (kindergarten, first grade, and fourth grade). If you’d like to take a tour of our woodland campus or ask a few questions about the experience, our Admissions Coordinator would be happy to help: [email protected]
Know of someone who might be interested? We appreciate the connection! Please share, re-post, or tag a friend.
___
#hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyprivateschool #saugerties #woodstock #rhinebeck #catskill #redhook #kingston #saugerties #ulstercountyschools #upstateschools #hudsonvalleyliving #progressiveeducation #upstateny #hudsonvalleykids #upstateindependentschool #bestindependentschool
When is the last time you built a fairy house? The simple act of gathering from nature and constructing a refuge for a tiny being can be so enormously full of joy. Fragile sticks become pillars of support. Pebbles become sculptures. One leaf can keep an entire family dry in the rain. There are so many possibilities to plot with a friend or spend a quiet moment creating on your own.
A special thanks for moments like this goes to beloved Art Teacher Diana Jensen, who sees the excitement in quiet moments and cheers for the creative side in everyone. Thank you, Diana, for the magical moments you offer to our school.
#hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyprivateschools #ulstercounty #upstateschools #buddhisteducationforchildren #outdoorlearning #forestschool #wisdombynature #experientiallearning #hudsonvalleykids #saugerties #woodstock #catskill #phoenicia #kingston #rhinebeck #redhook #hudson
What is it like to attend a school in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, surrounded by trees and opportunities for adventurous learning? Well… it gets a little wild!
Outdoor education is a key component of the experience at the Middle Way School. Students spend a lot of time in nature learning about biology, native plants, poetry, music, and more. Thanks to Dorothy Varner, who leads our specialty of Outdoor Education, students get a hands-on connection to the woods and a deep understanding of their place within the natural world. We find fossils, hike to neighboring streams, nurture a garden, and so much more.
By the way (don’t worry!)—this beautiful ball python was a visiting guest on campus, not one of the usual woodland creatures we see. Thanks for sharing that cool experience, Cassidy!
#hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyprivateschools #ulstercounty #upstateschools #buddhisteducationforchildren #outdoorlearning #forestschool #wisdombynature #experientiallearning #hudsonvalleykids #saugerties #woodstock #catskill #phoenicia #kingston #rhinebeck #redhook #hudson #handsonlearning #snakesarecool #soaregardens
Extra, extra—read all about it! This summer, we’re expanding our school library. It’s a really big project and we’re thrilled to share an update. Construction commenced at the start of the summer, creating more room for students to embark on reading adventures.
Meanwhile, “librarian extraordinaire” Robin Shornstein is giving our unique collection a full overhaul. With over 25 years of experience leading elementary school libraries, she’s known around the Hudson Valley as a magical catalyst for enthusiastic readers. We are big fans of her passion for matching each child with just the right book. She has a way of making every student feel seen and appreciated for their individual interests, no matter how wild or silly they may be!
Robin is looking forward to meeting and inspiring our students when they return in the fall. She’ll be on campus every week to meet with students and help foster a special friendship with books.
So what makes the Middle Way School Library such a unique opportunity? Our Buddhist lens! Robin has a knack for highlighting key dharma themes that are naturally woven into popular children’s literature. Topics such as refuge, impermanence, compassion, lineage, and lovingkindness are intermingled with biology, architecture, social justice, music, and more. It’s a vast world in which everything is connected!
Can’t wait to meet Robin? She’ll be hosting Storytime @saugertieslibrary throughout the summer on Tuesdays (ages 3–6) and Thursdays (ages 1–3) from 10:30-11:30 am.
#buddhisteducationforchildren #dharmakids #schoollibrary #booksandmorebooks #earlychildhoodeducation #alternativeeducation #hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyprivateschools
#saugerties #woodstock #rhinebeck #catskill #redhook #kingston #saugertiesschools #ulstercountyschools #upstateschools #holisticeducation @upstater #hudsonvalleyliving
#progressiveeducation #upstateny #hudsonvalleykids
Let’s hear it for our Head of School Grace Ann Louis!! Once again, she’s been named Best Youth Advocate by @chronogram readers across the Hudson Valley. Close to 25,000 people voted, casting over 340,000 ballots. It’s kind of a big deal—and a totally natural choice in our minds.
Grace is known for her skill in the classroom, her warm and creative leadership, and her ability to keep all the balls in the air with a cheerful smile. She has over two decades of experience in approaching Early Childhood Education from a contemplative vantage. She believes in creating the conditions for every child to encounter a confidence and true delight within themselves so that they may become lifelong learners.
We’re so glad to see her endless dedication recognized by this award! Thank you, Grace, for advocating for each child’s relationship with learning. May your compassionate influence continue to ripple outwards into the world.
#hudsonvalleyschools #chronogrammies2023 #ulstercountyschools #upstatenewyork #alternativeeducation #saugerties #compassionatekids #middleway #rethinkingeducation #woodstock #kingston #catskill #phoenica #woodstockschools #everythingisconnected #awakenedmind #letsdothistogether #curiousminds #contemplativelearning #dharma
CONGRATULATIONS to Amy Brown-White for her #chronogrammies2023 win for Best Racial Justice Advocate. As a Middle Way School Advisor, Amy leads our conversations around diversity, race, privilege, and inclusion. Guided by empathy and interconnection, she challenges our understanding of one another and hones our awareness of injustice.
In her practice, Amy helps reexamine established organizations that wish to shift their personal narrative and become more equitable. She promotes the understanding of people with threatened identities and researches those experiences to break down barriers.
We’re thrilled to see Amy Brown-White receive this honor for her ongoing work in this field. We’re grateful for her wise and generous perspective, which continually reshapes our school.
@abwconsulting7 @chronogram #hudsonvalleyschools #chronogrammies #ulstercountyschools #upstatenewyork #buddhisteducation #alternativeeducation #saugerties #compassionatekids #middleway #rethinkingeducation #everythingisconnected #awakenedmind #letsdothistogether
Incredible!! Two years in a row? Why, THANK YOU!! We’re full of appreciation for this win from 24,000+ @chronogram readers across the Hudson Valley. Thank you for declaring MWS the all-around BEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL.
We’re simply delighted to be a part of this community.
As a model for contemplative learning in upstate NY, we’re rethinking the school experience. We feel that compassion and critical thought go hand-in-hand with academics. We pay attention to the teachings of our forested campus and we try our best to create a whole lot of fun together. We want our students to be confident, curious, and creative learners.
Interested? Reach out to speak with our Admissions Coordinator, who can answer questions, provide info about financial aid, or schedule a tour. We have just a few spots left for the 2023/24 school year and we’d love to meet you!
#hudsonvalleyschools #chronogrammies #ulstercountyschools #upstatenewyork #iheartnewyork #buddhisteducation #alternativeeducation #saugerties #outdoorlearning #compassionatekids #loveoflearning #beyondthedesk #middleway #rethinkingeducation #saugertiesSTEM #itselementarywatson #kindergarten #firstgrade #secondgrade #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #sixthgrade #chronogrammies2023
At the end of each school year, we celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of our students with a special Moving-up Ceremony. We commemorate the passing of time as we open our hearts to what may lie ahead. The children share a gift of song with their families and bestow bits of wisdom to the younger students who will be taking their place in the coming year. It’s a time of big emotions and touching farewells.
Congratulations to each of our students!! May the lessons we’ve learned together be a benefit to all.
#gatön #gatönweek #hudsonvalleyschools #upstatenewyork #upstateschools #ulstercounty #buddhisteducation
TALENT SHOW!! The annual kid-led revue has become an epic tradition. The children brave the stage and cheer each other on with SO much heart. There’s simply no way to highlight a particular performance because each one is such a gem. It’s a day for the whole school to take joy in each other’s gifts of song, dance, humor, storytelling, and so much more. Hurray, friends!!!
Of course, no one gets a crowd cheering like Dondre, who once again served as our emcee. And special thanks goes to Jen for being an amazing producer and Megan for the magical musical inspiration.
#gatön #gatönweek #kidsareawesome #upstatenewyork #upstateschools #ulstercounty #saugertiesschools #hudsonvalleyschools
It’s a tradition at Middle Way to start off the last week of school with “Amanda’s Ice Cream-o”—a crowd-pleasing offering from our administrative super-star. Throughout the year, Amanda keeps a calm mind and a smile on her face as she directs our school operations and we are so appreciative. Thank you, Amanda—with sprinkles on top!!
#icecreamsocial #superstar #hudsonvalleyschools #directorofoperations #weloveamanda #alsoweloveicecream
With an abundance of special moments around campus this week, we are honoring the delight of being together. Today begins Gatön Week at the Middle Way School. In Tibetan, “gatön” means celebration. Whether it's a wedding, a village festival, or a party, a gatön is a happy occasion, a time to gather in your community. At MWS, Gatön Week is how we close our year—with a week of fun and engaging activities, rites of passage, moving-up ceremonies, and graduation. Let the celebrations begin!
#buddhisteducation #gatön #gatönweek #sagadawa #hudsonvalleyschools #alternativeeducation #hudsonvalleyschools #awholebunchofflowers
Last call! Order a sweatshirt, t-shirt, or tank top in family-friendly sizes and colors by the end of the day today, May 16. Proceeds go to our big plan to grow the school library. We can’t wait to see you wearing your support for our school!
Link in bio, or here:
bonfire.com/store/middle-way-school
When life gives you lemons… Middle Way students gather outside and make lemonade together! Our oldest class of the Garudas illustrated recipe posters and taught the youngest Fawns how to squeeze lemons, adding a little sugar and water. At MWS, classes often share experiences together, learning different skill sets simultaneously. As the older children practice caring for their younger classmates, they gain a sense of loving responsibility and the joy of sharing their wisdom as they grow.
#harmony #hudsonvalleyschools #buddhisteducation #upstater #catskills #saugertiesschools #learningtogether #learningoutside
“Radiate boundless love towards the entire world — above, below, and across — unhindered, without ill will, without enmity.”
(from a translation of the Mettā Sutta, approximately 400 BC)
Timeless wisdom for a modern age.
For one more day, you can support our “school store” and order a t-shirt, sweatshirt, or tank top with this message of lovingkindness. Choose from a wide range of colors and sizes for both adults and kids! All proceeds support growing our school library this summer.
Link in bio, or here:
https://www.bonfire.com/store/middle-way-school
Many thanks!
#schoollibrary #hudsonvalley #lovingkindness #wearyoursupport#buddhisteducation #mondaymetta @bonfire
There’s just a little time left to support the Plant Sale + Yard Sale! Lots of deals and plenty of smiles—all proceeds support the expansion of our library and art room!! Until 2pm 5/13
Kid-made!
We’re raising money to expand our library and art room. You’re invited to our 2nd Annual Plant Sale + Yard Sale—TODAY! Wild-crafted treats made by our children, treasures of the unexpected, and face-to-face friendship with our community. Can’t make it today, but want to contribute? Visit middlewayschool.org/grow
Thank you, friends!
#hudsonvalleyhappenings #yardsale #ulstercounty #saugerties #fundraiser #may13
Today! Can’t wait to see you there!
This week, Middle Way families are sharing their love for teachers with offerings of home-cooked food. Our hard-working educators and staff are being treated to a global array of delicious gratitude. What a joy it has been to share a meal together, eat outside under the blooming spring trees, and see the smile on everyone’s face. AND it continues today… Thank you, parents!! For organizing your time and generous expressions. The love is truly felt.
#gratitude #teacherappreciation #buddhisteducation #hudsonvalleyschools #upstateschools #sharingthelove #community
When we take the time to admire the efforts of others and celebrate them with gratitude, we feel how connected we all are… and the world becomes a more beautiful place.
Thank you, Middle Way families, for the hand-crafted banner, the home-cooked food, the gathered flowers, the time, the energy, and the genuine joy. We love you, too!!
#gratitude #teacherappreciation #buddhisteducation #hudsonvalleyschools #upstateschools #sharingthelove #community
FRIENDS! Now you can wear your support for the Middle Way School. Choose “Radiate Boundless Love” or “Wisdom by Nature”—both available in lots of different styles and colors. All proceeds support our goal to raise $20,000 to expand our library this summer! Available for 7 DAYS ONLY, until May 16! We thank you for your kindness and generosity.
“Wear your support” link in bio, or here:
https://www.bonfire.com/store/middle-way-school/
Each day, Middle Way Teachers meet our students with SO MUCH LOVE in their hearts. They inspire, educate, guide, and counsel. They devote their time and energy to passing on the complexity of academics alongside the tenderness of the dharma. They brave the runny noses and muddy fields—while being true friends to every student. Gratitude is certainly not contained by a calendar, but Teacher Appreciation Week reminds us to share those feelings more openly. Let's celebrate them with our joy and our kindness. Thank you, Teachers!
This week, Middle Way students welcomed Lama Lhanang Rinpoche, a Tibetan spiritual teacher. The children gathered at the pavilion where they worked together to prepare the space and greet their guest of honor. They had an opportunity to practice mudras and chants. Lama Lhanang then shared his story with a humor and wisdom that captivated the children's attention. Students asked thoughtful and respectful questions to learn more about his life and practice. It was a thoroughly enjoyable visit!
Welcoming new visitors with an open heart often leads to a new friendship when they depart.
#learningfromothers #sharingstories #buddhisteducation #lamalhanang #hudsonvalleyalternativeschools #dharmadays
Can you recall a book from your childhood that influenced the person you are today? Have you ever traveled through the pages of a book to explore another part of the world and better understand its culture? Maybe there's a writer who opened your mind in a way you didn't even know was possible…
We believe reading empowers children to FEEL CONNECTIONS. We believe books are mighty tools to HONOR DIFFERENCES.
This summer, we’ll be expanding our school library and we could use your support. We’re enlarging the physical space and furnishing it with shelves to fill. We’re also curating and cataloging a growing collection, tailored to fit the needs of our school.
It’s a BIG project, designed to welcome students back to a new experience in the fall. We could really use your help! If you are in a position to share a donation of any size, please feel our truest gratitude.
Link in bio:
middlewayschool.org/grow
#library #hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyalternativeschools #ulstercounty #upstateschools #woodstock #saugerties #catskill #phoenicia #buddhisteducation
We have a big project ahead—to EXPAND OUR SCHOOL LIBRARY so we can better serve each child. Books serve as a vital resource for our students and staff—with dharma-specific enrichment, academic inspiration, and guided learning tools. As our small-seed collection has grown with love and attention, so have our needs. We have until June 7 to raise $20,000. Can you help? middlewayschool.org/grow
Spring Shindig! We’ve been observing the joy and impermanence of the seasons with a little festive foraged feast. To prepare, students learned about an area plant that can be both challenging and beneficial—knotweed (Reynoutria japonica). Did you know its spring shoots can be sautéed in garlic and oil for a delicious treat? Students also tapped maple trees for the very patient process of making syrup. Of course, that led to pancakes! Parents were served these specialties from behind the cardboard “food truck” handmade by the Fawns and Snow Lions classes—a deliciously fun day!
#buddhisteducation #foragedfromourforest #outdoorclassrom #hudsonvalleyschools #shindig #impermance #seasons #makingfriendswithnature
Happy Earth Day! With dirt on our hands and smiles on our faces, we’re so grateful for this planet that unites us. May the seeds we grow be a benefit to all.
#buddhisteducation #earthdayiseveryday #plantingseeds #aroundtheworld #growingideas
As part of the “whole child” approach to education at the Middle Way School, parents are invited to be students, too. They can choose from a wide array of offerings throughout the year, including meditation practice and enriching discussions on Buddhist philosophy.
Recently we had a visit from Shugen Roshi, Abbot of @zenmountainmonastery, friend, and advisor to the school. He spoke about the moral teachings of Buddhism and how they can be a guide for parenting. We sat on the outdoor platform that parents helped build and we listened to the sounds of springtime in the background. The oldest students participated by offering “tea for teacher.”
Of the many gems he shared, Shugen reminded us of the importance of our thoughts, words, and actions—the essential forces of human consciousness. “This is how we change the world—through what we think, what we say, and what we do.”
So simple, and so profound.
#buddhisteducation #dharma #precepts #changetheworld #thoughtswordsactions #upstateschools #alwayslearning
Blacksmithing, birdwatching, snake handling, pollination play, team building, gorge hiking, nature crafting… What a fabulous field trip for the whole school! Thank you @ashokancenter for the opportunity to take our outdoor classroom experience to a new location. With a vibrant group of educators on staff, we felt warmly welcomed as we arrived and brightly inspired as we left.
#outdoorlearning #natureplay #natureclassroom #snakesaresocool #blacksmithing #pollination #seedlings #hudsonvalleyschools #ulstercountyny #upstateschools #upstater #buddhisteducation #hudsonvalleykids #independentschool
We love you, Saugerties! Thank you, @upstate_films, for hosting this year’s Middle Way Movie Day. It was so much fun to pack the historic theater on Main Street for the Miyazaki gem Kiki’s Delivery Service and the profoundly emotional This Body is So Impermanent. Afterwards, families spread out to enjoy the local bookstores, shops, boutiques and restaurants. We’re grateful to be a part of such a thriving, kid-friendly, #upstate community.
#hudsonvalleyschools #escapebrooklyn #upstateschools #ilovenewyork #upstater #hudsonvalleyliving #hudsonvalleylife #saugerties #thisbodyissoimpermanent #vimalakirtisutra #petersellars #ganavya
OH, JOY! The Middle Way School is a finalist for the Best Independent School in the Hudson Valley region! We're proud to have earned this superlative last year, along with Best Elementary School. Our Head of School Grace Louis was named Best Youth Advocate, and MWS Advisor Amy Brown-White was amongst the top five Racial Justice Advocates in the area.
This award generates much-appreciated attention and support for our school. Please VOTE DAILY through May 15 for the Middle Way School in the Education and Learning category. Every vote really helps. Link in bio!
@chronogram #chronogrammies #chronogrammies2023 #hudsonvalleyschools #readerschoice #supportourschool #buddhisteducation #upstateny #independentschool #thankyoufriends
This week, the Ravens class of second graders held their first non-fiction publishing party! Each student researched, wrote and illustrated their own book about a #hudsonriver animal. They read aloud with joyful confidence as their parents and classmates cheered them on. Encouraged by lead teacher Susan Wieland, students even translated their research into meaningful measurements, comparing heights and weights to objects in their own classroom “habitat.”
Did you know? A beaver’s body length can match that of a second grader! A river otter can weigh as much as 24 hardcover books. A raven wingspan is about the width of the classroom table.
Other fun facts—Eagle parents work together to raise their children. Beavers show their affections by nibbling on each other’s cheeks. River otters use their tails to steer.
@nysdec #hudsonvalleyschools #hudsonvalleyelementary #ulstercountyny #upstateschools #independentschool #hudsonvalleylife #saugerties
Kindergarten—what a magical age! It’s a time of exuberant exploration and enormous growth. Ripe with curiosity about the world, the kindergarten mind is ready to take on the new challenges of social and emotional learning.
We think it's an ideal time to embark on the Middle Way path. Here, a sense of play brightens their lessons. They are allowed to grow and learn from experiences that are meaningful and relevant to them. The seeds of kindness and self-awareness are planted, from which academics naturally take root.
Throughout the year, they’re learning about literacy, scientific inquiry, problem solving, and artistic expression alongside "life ideas" like mindfulness and interconnectedness. Children also meet with specialty teachers for art, music, outdoor education, movement, yoga, and Spanish.
At the Middle Way School, students develop a true love of learning—a bond they can carry with them throughout their entire life.
Read more about our Buddhist model of timeless wisdom for a modern age. (link in bio)
#hudsonvalleyschools #SEL #kindergarten #hudsonvalleyelementary #ulstercountyny #upstateschools #upstater #outdooreducation #buddhisteducation #hudsonvalleymoms #hudsonvalleykids #independentschool #hudsonvalleylife #hudsonvalleyprivateschool #earlychildhoodeducation #saugerties #woodstock #kingston #phoenicia #catskill #hudson
It’s World Water Day—a great time to reflect on our #outdoorclassroom experiences. During a day on the Hudson River, we cast a seining net to see what life we’d discover. Students got a closer look at #macroinvertebrates with a magnified projection and loved pointing out the ones they recognized from their studies.
With the aid of a dichotomous key, our budding scientists learned how to identify the fish we encountered. Then, we took turns assessing the clarity of the water to better relate to the health of the entire ecosystem.
We’re not only forming meaningful connections to the fresh water around us—we’re helping to raise a global awareness of how connected each living being is to one another.
Thank you @sloopclearwater for all of the inspiration and @scenichudson for creating such a beautiful space to study the #hudsonriver. Visit the UN’s worldwaterday.org to learn more about how water connects the world.
#hudsonvalleyschools #independentschool #worldwaterday #worldwaterday
Empathy and understanding are skills that benefit from practice. Last week, Middle Way advisor Amy Brown-White led an evening conversation for families around diversity and inclusion. We gathered to discuss the questions: Why are diversity and inclusion important? In what ways do dharma and inclusion intersect? How can we shift our perspective around the topic of anti-racism? @amybrownwhite has been working with MWS for three years, shaping the teaching curriculum and sharing supportive resources for families. Thank you, Amy!
Spring is here! While everyone is enjoying signs of the growing season ahead, the Ravens have been studying trees that flourish all throughout the year. As part of their conifer study, they honed their observation skills with scientific drawing. Their writing practice was nurtured by nature journaling. They even had a cooking class: pine needle cookies! Who knew learning could be so fun AND delicious?!
#holisticlearning #needleknowledge #outdoorclassrom #wilderness #skills #hudsonvalleyschools #springequinox
At the Middle Way School, our goal is for each student to forge a friendship with reading.
How? Is there a single best way to help children learn to read? Many schools subscribe to a streamlined methodology, such as Whole Language, Balanced Literacy, or Phonics Based Instruction. While it’s a noble aim to serve everyone equally, it’s not always realistic.
Each child’s brain is wonderfully unique and pathways to reading are forged individually. Of course, there are fundamental components of reading instruction that need to be part of a strong literacy program. These components include: phonemic awareness (the recognition that words are made of separate sounds combined together), phonics (the integration of phonemic awareness with the printed word), vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. The Middle Way approach encompasses all of these components, tailored to the individual.
Being a small school by design allows us to know our students well and to communicate with families readily, as often as needed. We’re committed to timely and effective intervention and we also feel it’s essential to provide high-quality professional development for teachers. By working together, we provide our students with all the help they need in developing important skills and confidence—and, by all means, a sense of wonder about the world.
#literacy #reading #hudsonvalleyschools #independentschool #progressiveeducation #ulstercounty #upstateny #upstateschools
Join us for a rare, one-time screening of the remarkable film this body is so impermanent… (open to the public!)
An artistic collage of music, dance, and calligraphy, the film unites a range of meditations on the Vimalakirti Sutra, a Buddhist text from the first century CE.
Please support this special event by purchasing $10 tickets through the EVENTS link in our bio.
Children are invited to attend a simultaneous screening of Kiki’s Delivery Service, the 1989 Japanese animated classic by Hayao Miyazaki.
See you there!
Today was so much fun! At lunchtime, students learned how to make #buttercandles from… you guessed it… butter! After clarifying and melting, the butter was carefully poured around wicks by the oldest students. The younger friends eagerly observed, and then practiced their own pouring skills with tea. What a fun way to spread a little light!
.
.
.
#chötruldüchen #butterlamp #ghee
Interested?
Interested in enrolling? Want to learn more? Fill out this simple contact form (link below) and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Middle Way School holds regular open houses. We also can arrange individual tours. This form will automatically sign you up for important notifications regarded enrollment.
Thanks for your interest in Middle the Way School!
ORIGINS
All major religions of the world have systems of educating children in their traditions, beliefs, rituals, and values. There are maktab and madrasas for Muslims, Catholic schools, Jewish day schools, Sunday schools, Catechism classes, all kinds of afterschool programs, camps, and specialized schools meant to teach children to become the stewards of their respective religious traditions. Buddhist education for children has, for the most part, been offered to monastic communities with grassroots initiatives few and far between. Because Buddhism is not culture bound, there are few broadly accepted holidays, festivals and customs to introduce to children. Often, the transference of the Buddhist view happens in the home. Some Buddhist parents have independently created programs for children, but there is no generally accepted content or method for teaching the dharma to children.
To bridge this gap, a team of educators and active Buddhists, inspired by the vision of Bhutanese Buddhist master Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche, began exploring the possibility of creating such a model of education. It became clear that the model had to be developed in situ, in an actual school. Middle Way Education was established to spearhead this effort.
In 2017 after exploring options in Bali, Indonesia, India, and Taiwan, it was decided that the Middle Way pilot school should be located in Upstate New York. The Middle Way School opened in 2018 with 17 students in West Saugerties. In 2020 we enrolled 55 students in 6 classes.
The Hudson Valley is an ideal location for our pilot school. The welcoming and independent mindset in this area, along with supportive communities like Zen Mountain Monastery, Karma Triyana Dharmachakra, Omega Institute, and other centers of study and practice, makes this a fertile ground for a new model of education to come into being.
We hire and enroll without discriminating against any identifying factor which may include race, age, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic background. We will make accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities to the fullest extent possible. As an institution and as individuals we recognize that we have the responsibility to actively change the power differences that perpetuate biases against historically underrepresented groups. Our inclusion efforts are a dynamic process. We welcome your experience and invite your input on how our school community can continue to evolve.
