“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
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.
DAILY AND WEEKLY HAPPENINGS AT MIDDLE WAY SCHOOL
It’s HAPPENING!! Come to the 4th Annual PLANT SALE + YARD SALE. Bake sale goodies, foraged treats crafted by our students, flowers, shrubs, gently used clothing, toys, and sports equipment for children and adults.
At our BOUQUET BAR—you can CRAFT YOUR OWN—or pick up a pre-made arrangement for someone special (Mother’s Day is tomorrow!). Special thanks to @palomamelestudio and @marahshemesh for these lovelies!
SO MANY families have worked together to plan and host this event in support of Middle Way School. Rain or shine, it’s a fun day of gathering to raise needed funds. Open to the public—please tell your friends and family.
See you soon, friends!
___
#plantsaleyardsale
#sharingwitheachother
#schoolfundraiser
#saugertiesyardsale
#ulstercountyyardsale
#reducereuserecycle
#communityconnections
#interconnection
#hudsonvalleyyardsale
#middlewayschool
Fresh growth and special visitors have brought inspiration to our campus!
Last week, Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche visited Middle Way School to explore our campus and meet our students. Accompanied by Lama Gyatso and Justin Kelley, an educator with Tergar Schools and the Executive Director of Tergar Institute, they visited each classroom and strolled through the forest, discussing the ways in which our schools for children share common intentions.
Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher known for his work with the Tergar Meditation Community. He integrates a traditional Buddhist practice and philosophy with the current scientific understanding of the mind and mental health, hoping to make meditation accessible for everyone.
Our Owls, Garudas, and Tigers (fourth through sixth graders) listened intently as he spoke about his childhood anxiety and how meditation and a practice of awareness helped him to overcome his feelings of unrest. With lots of laughs—and plenty of pizza references—our students were totally tuned into Rinpoche’s casual joy.
May we continue to collaborate for the benefit of all!
___
@tergarschools
@tergaronline
@mingyurrinpoche
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#collaboration
#globalconnections
#dharmabasedlearning
#childhood
#happyandfree
#meditationformentalhealth
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#theimportanceofwhatcantbemeasured
Come to the 4th Annual PLANT SALE + YARD SALE, hosted by the Middle Way School Parent Community Association (PCA)! We’ll have gently used clothing, toys, and sports equipment for children and adults, plus flowers, shrubs, and trees for your garden. Add some colorful joy to your space for spring and share a bouquet with someone special. (Mother’s Day is the next day!)
Rain or shine, it’s a fun day of gathering to support the school. Open to the public—please tell your friends and family!
___
#plantsaleyardsale
#sharingwitheachother
#schoolfundraiser
#saugertiesyardsale
#ulstercountyyardsale
#reducereuserecycle
#communityconnections
#interconnection
#hudsonvalleyyardsale
#middlewayschool
Three cheers for Volunteers! Thanks to the students, parents, and alumni who joined us for Saturday’s Forest Restoration event! We worked together to begin the installation of a sturdy deer fence to contain a section of our wooded campus.
Here, Middle Way students will be playing a role in restoring the forest’s vitality, diversity, and longevity. Soil tests, native plant study and selection, protective partitioning, and planting will be carried out throughout the school year, with updates as the stewardship takes root.
This project is supported by an Ecological Restoration Grant from Partners for Climate Action. Special thanks to our MWS parents who are leading this project and making great connections with our community.
___
@climateactionhv
#climateactionhv
#outdoorlearning
#forestrestoration
#caringforourspaces
#lendingahand
#studentsoftheforest
#plantingideas
#refuge
#interconnection
#causeandeffect
Middle Way School families started the week with a special celebration of our Teachers! A handmade banner and a parade of children brightened up the rainy morning. Drawings and notes of appreciation now decorate the walls of our teachers lounge, with an arrangement of fresh flowers and healthy snacks to last through the week. A basket of “wishing stones” was offered as a symbol of appreciation—each stone infused with wishes of kindness and blessings from our community.
THANK YOU, Teachers!! For your tireless dedication to this challenging work, for your special attention to every child, and for your cheerful guidance—even on the rainiest of days—we are so very thankful for the brightness you bring to our school.
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!!
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#teacherappreciationweek
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#bestindependentschool
#cultureofgenerosity
#spreadinggratitude
#meyouus
#alternativeeducation
#upstateny
#ulstercountyschools
#saugertiesschools
#upstateliving
#hudsonvalleyschools
#weloveourteachers❤️
This week, we’ve been celebrating our educators! What a unique blend of humans we have on our team at Middle Way School! Thanks to their wisdom, silliness, skillfulness, patience, and dedication, our school is such a special place for learning.
We are all grateful for the care, creativity, and curiosity they nurture in our students throughout the school year. Without their inspiration and support, Middle Way wouldn’t be the radiant school we all love.
Thank you, Teachers!!
___
#teacherappreciationweek
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#bestindependentschool
#cultureofgenerosity
#spreadinggratitude
#meyouus
#alternativeeducation
#upstateny
#ulstercountyschools
#saugertiesschools
#upstateliving
#hudsonvalleyschools
#weloveourteachers❤️
The Spring Shindig has become an annual tradition at Middle Way School. It’s a joyous opportunity for the Fawns (pre-K) and Snow Lions (kindergartners) to welcome their families, share what they’ve been learning, and be together in community.
Leading up to the event, students helped prepare our campus, mulching the yard and tending the garden. Delicious snacks and beverages were made from foraged ingredients—even knotweed drinking straws! We sang and danced together, giving other classes and teachers a chance to see the youngest Middle Way performers in action. On display were their reflections about spring growth and their time spent in the garden.
Thank you for sharing the beauty of the season, Fawns and Snow Lions!
___
#buddhisteducation
#earlychildhoodwonders
#springishere
#whatmakesyourgardengrow
#upstateprivateschools
#hudsonvalleyschools
#saugerties
#dharmaschools
#upstatenewyork
#outdoorlearning
#weloveourcommunity
#celebratingtheseasons
#hudsonvalleyparents
Only 1 MORE DAY remains to help us reach our goal!
✨BID, BUY NOW, or GIVE directly—NOW through April 26 at 8 PM (EDT)
See bio for link.
✨ We’re $66,000 away from raising $108,000 by June, 2025, and we are so grateful for your help.
Explore SEEDS of AWAKENING to view the inspired work of 24 global Artists who have donated their art to support Buddhist-based education for children.
Thank you for sharing our vision for a more compassionate world.
___
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Artists who have generously contributed their beautiful, Dharma-inspired creations.
shown here:
1.
Tashi Mannox, ‘Transformation སྤྲུལ་བསྒྱུར་’, limited edition print
2.
Adele Cloony, ‘Enso’, ink on canvas
3.
Pema ‘Tin Tin’ Tshering, ‘Guru Stroke Essence’, Ink on Traditional handmade paper
___
#TimelessWisdomForAModernAge
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#PreservingDharma
#ArtBenefit
#DharmaArt
#MindfulnessInEducation
#SeedsOfAwakening
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
#108
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
@andrasamelson
@tashimannox
@studiocloony
@tintin_in_bhutan
@siddharthasintent
Only 2 MORE DAYS remain to help us reach our goal!
✨BID, BUY NOW, or GIVE directly—NOW through April 26 at 8 PM (EDT)
See bio for link.
✨ We’re $66,000 away from raising $108,000 by June, 2025, and we are so grateful for your help.
Explore SEEDS of AWAKENING to view the inspired work of 24 global Artists who have donated their art to support Buddhist-based education for children.
Thank you for sharing our vision for a more compassionate world.
___
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Artists who have generously contributed their beautiful, Dharma-inspired creations.
shown here:
1.
Eva Schicker, ‘The Lantern Blossom Tree’, gouache on paper
2.
Surina Mariana, ‘Wisdom Dakini’, original watercolor and gouache painting
3.
Tara di Gesu, ‘Queen Maya’s Dream’, giclée print
___
#TimelessWisdomForAModernAge
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#PreservingDharma
#ArtBenefit
#DharmaArt
#MindfulnessInEducation
#SeedsOfAwakening
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
#108
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
@andrasamelson
@eva_schicker
@surina_mariana
@siddharthasintent
Only 3 MORE DAYS remain to help us reach our goal!
✨BID, BUY NOW, or GIVE directly—NOW through April 26 at 8 PM (EDT)
See bio for link.
✨ We’re $66,000 away from raising $108,000 by June, 2025, and we need your help.
Explore SEEDS of AWAKENING to view the inspired work of 24 global Artists who have donated their art to support Buddhist-based education for children.
Thank you for sharing our vision for a more compassionate world.
___
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the 24 Artists who have generously contributed their beautiful, Dharma-inspired creations.
shown here:
1.
Anay Ngawang Chodak, ‘Full Moon Emanating’, limited edition giclée print on canvas, hand-retouched with 24K gold
2.
Elizabeth Winslow Phelps, ‘1,000 Offering Bowls for Shedrub Ling’, 5 Offering Bowls with Shelf
3.
Sargam Gupta, ‘Rebirth’, limited edition (49/50) risograph print
___
#TimelessWisdomForAModernAge
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#PreservingDharma
#ArtBenefit
#DharmaArt
#MindfulnessInEducation
#SeedsOfAwakening
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
#108
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
@andrasamelson
@anayngawang
@stopthisgupta
@siddharthasintent
The Earth Day celebration continues! We are pleased to share that Middle Way School has been awarded a 2025 Ecological Restoration Grant from Partners for Climate Action Hudson Valley.
Our students interact with the forest daily. Recess includes fort building, investigating life beneath fallen logs, and finding the homes of unseen animals in knobby tree nooks. Through our Outdoor Education curriculum, students learn ancestral skills like compass navigation, shelter building, and plant identification. They explore complex relationships with plant species and delight in the infinite wonders of observed phenomena. They learn that the forest is an extension of who they are—a provider and place of refuge.
From playtime to wild food foraging and campfire cooking, children at Middle Way School experience years of deepening their relationship and kinship with wild places.
The forested area of the campus became a crucial resource during the Covid-19 pandemic. Tents with outdoor rugs were set up providing space for outdoor classrooms. Thanks to the forest, ours was one of the only elementary schools in Ulster County able to safely remain open for full-time, in-person learning.
Four years later, this grant will allow our community to give back to the land which held our little ones through uncertainty. Middle Way students will be helping to restore the forest’s vitality, diversity, and longevity. Soil tests, native plant study and selection, protective partitioning, and planting will be carried out throughout the school year, with updates as the stewardship takes root.
This project is supported by an Ecological Restoration Grant from Partners for Climate Action. Sign up for the MWS newsletter on our website to learn more and get involved.
___
@climateactionhv
#climateactionhv
#outdoorlearning
#forestrestoration
#caringforourspaces
#studentsoftheforest
#earthdayiseveryday
#plantingideas
#refuge
Middle Way School cheerfully joined in the Earth Fest celebration at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York. Children of all ages were invited to connect with the Earth by making nature impressions in clay using flowers, twigs, and leaves.
At story time, we read “What Do You See When You Look at a Tree?” by the amazing Emma Carlisle, discussing the many stories that grow from the life of a tree.
How does it feel to be a part of its story? Can you feel the connection?
“Pause and notice the trees all around you…
Does this tree think?
Does this tree feel?
Does it have thoughts just like yours? …
Who else made a home in its arms?
Did children before you play in its shade?”
Thank you, Emma Carlisle, for prompting these ideas and for sharing them with the world in your beautiful book!
___
@ashokancenter
@emmacarlisle_
@bigpicturepress
@kewgardens
#earthday
#interconnection
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#connectingwithnature
#connectingwithcommunity
#independentlearning
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#upstatenewyork
Middle Way School students are honored to participate in the first annual, town-wide SAUGERTIES EARTH DAY WEEK celebration! Our Tigers class (sixth grade) created site-based written pieces in the deep woods of our campus. Upon choosing a special spot to sit, they responded to the following four prompts:
1. SHARE A STORY about something that happened in your chosen spot. Take the reader to a moment in time when something special happened in the place where you sit.
2. DESCRIBE THE LAND where you sit. Use your five senses to paint a picture with words. Provide enough detail so a picture may form in the mind of your reader.
3. CONSIDER THE DHARMA themes we’ve learned about—such as impermanence, interconnection, refuge, bodhicitta (awakened heart), and the concept of cause and effect. Write a sentence or two connecting at least one of these concepts with the land where you sit.
4. FREESTYLE FORM: Choose your own adventure! Write a poem, a note, a reflection, or a song inspired by the place where you sit.
See their reflections on display all this week, including excerpts from their writing and photographs taken by the students in their chosen “sit spots.”
🌱
248 Main Street, Saugerties, NY
April 22 through April 27
Special thanks to the Tigers class and the Teachers who facilitated this project, along with the Saugerties Earth Day Committee for including our school in this event. We also share our appreciation for the land we inhabit and all the experiences that are woven into its history.
To learn more about the ways in which we are connected to the Earth, and to see a calendar of events for the week, visit the website of Saugerties Earth Day Week: https://www.saugertiesearthdayweek.org
___
@saugertiesearthdayweek
#earthday
#interconnection
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#connectingwithnature
#outdoorclassroom
#saugertiesevents
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#upstatenewyork
DHARMA ART BENEFIT - now through APRIL 26
Supporting education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion
Lasha Mutual shares thoughts on her relationship with creativity:
“Imagery from sadhana practice bubbles around in my mind’s eye until a spark of inspiration provides the impetus to make the image manifest, and then the process of creating these dharma-inspired paintings flows with a sense of ease, energy and delight.”
Lasha Mutual has generously donated six of her works in support of Middle Way School. Proceeds from our Dharma Art Benefit support our need to raise $108,000 by the end of the school year this June.
Rooted in Buddhist teachings, Middle Way School cultivates compassion, collaboration, and creativity in the minds of our young learners.
Explore these works and many others in our online Dharma Art Benefit Auction—including ‘Wisdom Dakini,’ which was featured on the cover of Buddhadharma magazine, a Lion’s Roar Publication.
___
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Lasha Mutual for supporting Middle Way School!
Thank you for celebrating dharma-based education for children. May your generosity for this unique model of education echo its benefit to all beings everywhere.
Explore and support Middle Way School—NOW through April 26.
See bio for link.
___
@lashamutual
@khyentsefoundation
@middlewayschool
@lionsroarbuddhism
#MiddleWaySchool
#LashaMutual
#LionsRoarMagazine
#BuddhaDharmaMagazine
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#ArtBenefit #DharmaArt
#MindfulEducation
#DJKR
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
DHARMA ART BENEFIT - now through APRIL 26
Supporting education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion
We are honored to feature ‘Skymind,’ an archival giclée print with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche’s original calligraphy in gold, signed by Artist Andra Samelson (24 x 36 in, limited edition of 21).
These artists have generously donated their creations for the benefit of Middle Way School and the awakening of all beings. Proceeds support the school’s heartfelt intent to expand the mindset of modern education. Rooted in Buddhist teachings, Middle Way School nurtures a profound understanding of the world and an interconnection with all beings.
The theme of our benefit auction, Seeds of Awakening, is inspired by the awakened nature of springtime, as well as the calligraphic overlay by Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche on Andra Samelson’s edition of ‘Skymind.’ Each of the three giclée prints offered are embellished with original calligraphy by Dzongsar Khysentse Rinpoche, depicting the seed syllables of OM, A, HUNG.
Explore this creation and others for a limited time—NOW through APRIL 26.
SEE BIO for ‘Seeds of Awakening’ link.
___
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Andra Samelson for her visual exploration of the dharma, and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, on whose vision our school is founded. We are deeply grateful for the inspiration and unwavering support. Thank you for celebrating dharma-based education for children. May your generosity for this unique model echo its benefit to all beings everywhere.
___
@middlewayschool
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
@andrasamelson
📸 Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche: @pawo
📸 Andra Samelson by Ann Landi
#MiddleWaySchool
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
#DJKR
#AndraSamelson
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#ArtBenefit
#DharmaArt
#MindfulEducation
@siddharthasintent
DHARMA ART BENEFIT - MARCH 24 to APRIL 26
Supporting education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion
BID or BUY NOW!
We are honored to offer this artwork for sale by Barbara Bash in our online Dharma Art Benefit:
‘Gesture’, Original Ink Painting on Canvas
30 x 30 in
A long-time friend of Middle Way School, Barbara shares her meditative calligraphy practice rooted in Heaven, Earth, and Human principles. She inspires a wide range of learners—from Naropa University to our young students, staff members, and parent community. Her work fosters present-moment awareness, invites self-reflection, and explores ideas of impermanence.
In Barbara’s own words :
“It has always been about engaging with the alive line—of the alphabet—the pencil and pen—the brush—the good conversation. I am following a dynamic dialogue with the world—with the page—with others—with myself. The stroke of a life.”
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Barbara Bash for supporting Middle Way School! EXPLORE this creation by Barbara Bash and support Middle Way School—NOW through April 26.
Thank you for celebrating dharma-based education for children. May your generosity for this unique model of learning echo its benefit to all beings everywhere.
See bio for link.
___
@bbashbigbrush108
@skylakelodge
@naropau
@khyentsefoundation
@chronicles_trungpa_rinpoche
#MiddleWaySchool
#BarbaraBash
#Skylake
#NaropaUniversity
#Bigbrush
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#DharmaArt
#MindfulEducation
#DJKR
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
Our campus is full of creativity this morning! Join us TODAY, Saturday, April 5, from 10 to noon for our Spring Open House, Art Show, and Bake Sale!
See the skillful artwork of our students exhibited in every classroom. We’ll have hands-on art activities for children of all ages— drawing, collaging, printmaking, and more—plus a delicious bake sale!
Explore our forested campus, get to know teachers and families, and find out why Middle Way School has been named “Best Independent School” in the Hudson Valley by Chronogram readers for three years in a row.
Saturday, Apr. 5 (10 am – 12 pm)
268 West Saugerties Rd, Saugerties, NY
We’re looking forward to meeting you!
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#connectingwithourcommunity
#bakesale
#saugertiesevents
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#hudsonvalleyprivateschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#upstatenewyork
Thank you, Hudson Valley community, for sharing your appreciation! After three years as the 🌟BEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL🌟 in the upstate region, Middle Way School has once again been selected as a finalist by over 25,000 @chronogram voters.
This year, our new ☀️SUMMER OF WONDER☀️ program is also celebrated for its beautiful blend of outdoor adventures and inward reflection. Register now while spots are still available!
https://middlewayschool.org/summer/
We’re thrilled to spotlight our educators and team members who have also been recognized for their exceptional way of inspiring children:
🌱 ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATE + ACTIVIST:
Dorothy Varner, MWS Science and Outdoor Education Teacher
🌈 RACIAL JUSTICE ADVOCATE + ACTIVIST:
Amy Brown-White, MWS Advisor
📚 LIBRARIAN:
Robin Shornstein, MWS Librarian
💕YOUTH ADVOCATE + ACTIVIST:
Grace Louis, MWS Head of School
In a region that shines with so many kindhearted humans and caring organizations, we are particularly grateful to be appreciated for our unique approach to modern education based on Buddhist wisdom and compassion.
To echo this appreciation, please VOTE DAILY through May 15.
Link in bio!
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#bestindependentschool
#dharmaintersections
#dharmalearning
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#hudsonvalleyprivateschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#upstatenewyork
DHARMA ART BENEFIT - MARCH 24 to APRIL 26
Supporting education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion
BID or BUY NOW!
Inspired by a teaching from His Eminence Garchen Triptrul Rinpoche, Calligraphy artist Luke Townsend explores the limitless qualities of love.
The students at Middle Way School also explore these qualities of love and compassion for all beings through our dynamic curriculum based in Buddhist wisdom and compassion.
We are honored to include and offer this artwork for sale by Luke Townsend in our MWS online Dharma Art Benefit Auction:
Limited Edition Giclée Print on Hahnemühle Hemp Paper
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Luke Townsend for supporting Middle Way School!
Thank you for celebrating dharma-based education for children. May your generosity for this unique model of education echo its benefit to all beings everywhere.
Explore this creation by Luke Townsend and support Middle Way School—NOW through April 26.
See bio for link.
___
@townsend.studio
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
#MiddleWaySchool
#LukeTownsend
#Calligraphy
#TibetanCalligraphy
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#ArtBenefit #DharmaArt
#MindfulEducation
#DJKR
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
Springtime brings fresh beginnings and new experiences on the horizon. It’s a great time of year to share perspectives from families whose children have grown up at Middle Way School. They’ve seen the benefits of individualized attention for every child, ample time outdoors convening with nature, and a dharma-based foundation for understanding of the world.
CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE? Join us this weekend for our Spring Open House and Art Show. Tour our forested campus, meet the Teachers, and chat with other families. Sample hands-on art activities for children of all ages, plus homemade baked goods from our community.
Saturday, Apr. 5 (10 am – 12 pm)
268 West Saugerties Rd, Saugerties, NY
Insights from ALUMNI FAMILIES whose children have graduated to their next scholastic step:
___
“My child’s transition from Middle Way to public school has been smooth. She has been on the high honor roll every quarter and her science teacher commented that she’s very curious and asks great questions.”
___
“Our son is well-prepared and doing well. He began the year well above grade level in Math. We were nervous that he would have to learn a whole new style of Math and thankfully he had all the skills necessary to succeed.”
___
“[My child] is doing great and he never feels unprepared!”
___
“After two marking periods, [our child] has straight A’s and a 98% average. We recently learned that she has been selected to take the advanced science class (Biology) as an 8th grader, and it has been recommended for her to join the accelerated Math program. I feel so grateful to Middle Way for the solid educational foundation she received here and for the caring, talented teachers that she got to learn with and be inspired by. THANK YOU!!!”
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#bestindependentschool
#outdoorclassroom
#brightlearners
#mindfulalternative
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#hudsonvalleyprivateschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#upstatenewyork
You’re invited to our Spring Open House and Art Show!
Saturday, Apr. 5 (10 am – 12 pm)
Explore our forested campus, meet teachers and families, and find out why Middle Way School has been named “Best Independent School” in the Hudson Valley by Chronogram readers for three years in a row.
We’ll have hands-on art activities for children of all ages—drawing, collaging, printmaking, and more—plus a delicious bake sale.
Bring a friend and help us spread the word!
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#connectingwithourcommunity
#bakesale
#makenewfriends
#hudsonvalleyschools
#upstateschools
#hudsonvalleyprivateschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#upstatenewyork
Middle Way School students from our 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade classes recently worked together to create a Giving Tree for our community, situated in the Village of Saugerties. The children crafted small, handmade gifts for our neighbors, infused with intentions to spread light and joy into our community and our world.
This delightful project was created in a collaboration between our Dharma, Art, and Outdoor Education teachers to encourage the students to make creations that they share instead of keep. Materials were selected with a focus on re-use and repurposing. There were book marks, prismatic light-catchers, up-cycled coin wallets, and hand sewn hearts.
Visitors of all ages were curious to see what was made with their friendship in mind! It started some great conversations and helped to open up our appreciation for one another.
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#connectingwithourcommunity
#collaboration
#interconnection
#workingtogether
#sharinglove
#givingtree
#upcycling
#caringforothers
#bodhicitta
Introducing SEEDS of AWAKENING
A Dharma Art Benefit connecting our global friends
to the heart of Buddhist-based education for children
LIVE NOW through April 26, 2025
~ link in bio ~
As we celebrate the Spring Equinox today, we invite you to explore and support SEEDS of AWAKENING!
Participate in this meaningful event by purchasing artwork that inspires and uplifts. Your support directly enables us to continue offering and evolving our unique, Buddhist-based approach to childhood education—providing timeless refuge for children navigating the wonders and challenges of our complex modern world.
We ask for your help in raising $66,000 by June, 2025—to reach this year’s goal of $108,000 for the Middle Way School Annual Fund.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the 24 ARTISTS who have generously contributed their beautiful, Dharma-inspired creations.
And we thank YOU for your generosity!
We invite you to multiply the merits of giving by sharing this appeal on social media. We are all connected to one another in some special way.
___
@middlewayschool
@khyentse
@khyentsefoundation
@andrasamelson
#BuddhistEducationForChildren
#SupportingOneAnother
#ArtBenefit
#DharmaArt
#MindfulEducation
#DJKR
#DzongsarKhyentseRinpoche
#108
#SpringEquinox
Middle Way School parents and caregivers recently gathered for a conversation and guided meditation led by Jefre Cantu. Hosted at Cygnets Way, this afternoon focused on Buddhist teachings surrounding death and how being in intimate relationship with impermanence can enrich our lives and nurture compassion.
Jefre Cantu is a Soto Zen priest in the lineage of Suzuki Roshi. He has a Masters of Divinity in Buddhism and Interreligious Engagement from Union Theological Seminary, and currently works as a Hospice chaplain.
Thank you to Erika deVries and matteline dilling for opening their space. Thank you to Dorjee Momo for the nourishment. Thank you to ALL the wonder-FULL parents and caregivers who nurture the vibrant community we share by contributing to and participating in enriching opportunities like these all throughout the school year.
___
image of Jefre Cantu shared by Cygnets Way / artwork by Erika deVries
@jcantuledesma
@fancyswanpants
@cygnets_way
@mattelinedevriesdilling
@dorjeemomo
@brooklynzencenter
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#buddhisteducationforparents
#deathanddying
#impermanence
#wholechild
#learningtogether
#experientialparenting
Honoring the countless ways in which we are all connected, we offer our gratitude on International Women’s Day. Thank you to the women of yesterday whose struggles and joys are part of our shared lineage. Thank you to the women of today who show us that strength pairs beautifully with tenderness. Thank you to the women of tomorrow whose wisdom and determination can inspire us all.
___
#interconnection
#internationalwomensday
#lineage
#gratitude
#middleway
#women
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#awareness
#compassionineducation
From all of us at Middle Way School, we wish you a happy Losar! Today we welcome the YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE—a symbol of renewal, flexibility, and gentleness. May the loving heart of dharma awaken compassion and wisdom in all beings everywhere—on this day and all days.
From our morning offering puja to our afternoon snake parade, we’re celebrating the Tibetan New Year on this day. Our campus is alive with Losar festivities! Students share offerings, freshen their classrooms, feast on momos and sing songs together—precious Middle Way School traditions.
✨ Losar Tashi Delek!! ✨
On this auspicious day, we invite you to join us in multiplying our good merit in support of Middle Way School and our mission to be a model school for Buddhist-based childhood education worldwide.
https://middlewayschool.org/annualfund/
We are excited and committed to our continued creation of a living model for childhood education rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion, in partnership with Middle Way Education and generously supported by @khyentsefoundation .
For a wealth of resources and activities benefiting children, educators, and parents globally, please visit @middlewayedu . We also invite you to learn more about our sister schools in Asia: Lhomon Education in Bhutan; Kanishka School in India; Blue Lion Preschool in Singapore; and the Jataka School in Thailand (opening in 2026).
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#middleway
#openheart
#losar
#yearofthewoodsnake
#resilience
#dharmakids
@thejatakaschool
@bluelionpreschool
@lhomoneducation
http://dzongsarinstitute.org.in/en/primary-school/
From all of us at Middle Way School, we wish you a happy Losar! Today we welcome the YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE—a symbol of renewal, flexibility, and gentleness. May the loving heart of dharma awaken compassion and wisdom in all beings everywhere—on this day and all days.
From our morning offering puja to our afternoon snake parade, we’re celebrating the Tibetan New Year on this day. Our campus is alive with Losar festivities! Students share offerings, freshen their classrooms, feast on momos and sing songs together—precious Middle Way School traditions.
✨ Losar Tashi Delek!! ✨
On this auspicious day, we invite you to join us in multiplying our good merit in support of Middle Way School and our mission to be a model school for Buddhist-based childhood education worldwide.
https://middlewayschool.org/annualfund/
We are excited and committed to our continued creation of a living model for childhood education rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion, in partnership with Middle Way Education and generously supported by @khyentsefoundation .
For a wealth of resources and activities benefiting children, educators, and parents globally, please visit @middlewayedu . We also invite you to learn more about our sister schools in Asia: Lhomon Education in Bhutan; Kanishka School in India; Blue Lion Preschool in Singapore; and the Jataka School in Thailand (opening in 2026).
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#middleway
#openheart
#losar
#yearofthewoodsnake
#resilience
#dharmakids
@thejatakaschool
@bluelionpreschool
@lhomoneducation
http://dzongsarinstitute.org.in/en/primary-school/
From all of us at Middle Way School, we wish you a happy Losar! Today we welcome the YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE—a symbol of renewal, flexibility, and gentleness. May the loving heart of dharma awaken compassion and wisdom in all beings everywhere—on this day and all days.
From our morning offering puja to our afternoon snake parade, we’re celebrating the Tibetan New Year on this day. Our campus is alive with Losar festivities! Students share offerings, freshen their classrooms, feast on momos and sing songs together—precious Middle Way School traditions.
✨ Losar Tashi Delek!! ✨
On this auspicious day, we invite you to join us in multiplying our good merit in support of Middle Way School and our mission to be a model school for Buddhist-based childhood education worldwide.
https://middlewayschool.org/annualfund/
We are excited and committed to our continued creation of a living model for childhood education rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion, in partnership with Middle Way Education and generously supported by @khyentsefoundation.
For a wealth of resources and activities benefiting children, educators, and parents globally, please visit @middlewayedu. We also invite you to learn more about our sister schools in Asia: Lhomon Education in Bhutan; Kanishka School in India; Blue Lion Preschool in Singapore; and the Jataka School in Thailand (opening in 2026).
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#middleway
#openheart
#losar
#yearofthewoodsnake
#resilience
#dharmakids
@thejatakaschool
@bluelionpreschool
@lhomoneducation
http://dzongsarinstitute.org.in/en/primary-school/
As students mature into their older childhood, it’s natural for parents to wonder about which options might best support their child’s growth.
One parent—who has been with Middle Way School from its earliest years—speaks to why he continues to choose meditation and mindfulness over a standardized path:
“I’m so thankful to stretch our child’s experience at Middle Way into his tween years. In a time of such big changes—both internally and globally—I’m in no rush to trade acres of forested splendor and deep discussions in an intimate class size… for a more standardized setting with testing pressure and the expectation to conform. At Middle Way, the kind-hearted teachers meet his laser-sharp mind in all sorts of challenging ways. His imagination is fostered and he’s thriving academically. While his critical thinking and awakened heart are SO far beyond his years, he’s also able to hang on to the tenderness of childhood and have a real love of learning without it being a stressful experience. I couldn’t be happier with our choice, especially now as he goes into sixth grade.”
___
#bestindependentschool
#wonderbased
#dharmabasedlearning
#wholehuman
#childhood
#happyandfree
#hudsonvalleyschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#theimportanceofwhatcantbemeasured
@opus40
In the classroom, we are deep into our Bodhicitta studies, spanning time, place, and culture to include how we make wishes for beings, create acts of kindness, and offer thoughtful gifts. We consider the interconnectedness of everyone — plants, animals, neighbors, and beyond. When we encourage the practice of offering care and kindness for all, we truly include all. We don’t limit ourselves to only those we know and like!
An aspect of Bodhicitta is the aspiration that all beings be free — free from harm, confusion, and suffering. May it be so! May we all find warmth and shelter, both physical and psychological. May we try our best each day to extend our generosity of heart.
The children sure are great role models in this way!
___
#bodhicitta
#generosityofheart
#awakenedhearts
#awakenedminds
#kindnessforall
#everyone
#everywhere
#learningfromeachother
#ourvalentinetoyou
For the fourth year in a row, our Head of School Grace Ann Louis has been nominated for the most shining Youth Advocate in the region. She has held this top honor in Upstate New York for the past three years, and we’re all pleased to celebrate her recognition once again!
Grace is a champion for integrating contemplative practices into everyday education. She is an advocate for protecting the precious experiences of childhood and understands the importance of connecting with a child’s innate sense of wonder. She sees the unique qualities and needs of every child and helps to sculpt their educational experience to ensure they flourish.
Thank you, Grace, for guiding and challenging each one of our students with joy in your heart!
___
@chronogram
https://chronogrammedia.secondstreetapp.com/og/862f1e2e-b8a5-4fe2-9296-9b0e4df78c28/gallery/472793605
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#youthadvocate
#childcentered
#hudsonvalleyschools
#updstatenyschools
#everychild
#contemplativelearning
#playbasedlearning
Once a child is ready for their next step after Middle Way School, how well do they adjust?
With such a new and revolutionary model for learning, some folks are curious about how students transition to a more standardized setting later on. Our young alumuni move on to a wide range of schools around the Hudson Valley and Catskill region—primarily public. We’re delighted to hear how well they’re doing, both academically and emotionally.
One parent shared feedback from her child’s latest middle school report card:
[This child] “…is kind, thoughtful, and hardworking. She is an absolute joy to have in class! She is a bright, kind, and conscientious young woman. Her performance is outstanding. All-around, she’s an excellent student.”
When she started her journey at Middle Way, the school had freshly opened its doors. Her family made the choice to prioritize the preciousness of childhood—making space in the day for time with nature and opportunities to learn about more than just academics.
With a reasonable dose of worry about how she’d fare in her later learning, they’re now seeing how her advanced ability to contextualize change and center herself with great compassion for others is not at all *separate* from her academic triumphs. She is a star student *because* of the time she was allowed to focus on these essential skills for being an empathetic and resilient human.
Brava!!
___
#bestindependentschool
#empathyineducation
#dharmabasedlearning
#wholehuman
#impermanence
#resilience
#hudsonvalleyschools
#hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
#theimportanceofwhatcantbemeasured
#academicsuccess
Congratulations to our Outdoor Education teacher Dorothy Varner for her nomination as most influential Environmental Advocate/Activist in the whole region! Middle Way families know this recognition comes naturally—Dorothy’s pure passion about the intersection of science and nature is delightfully contagious. With an abundant forest as an outdoor classroom, she keeps finding new ways to spark a joyful engagement. She has a gift for helping students truly feel the ways in which we are connected to what dwells around us—both seen and unseen.
When we understand our interconnection with all life, we become a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Thank you, Dorothy, for being an advocate for the earth and for showing us that science is pure magic!!
___
@chronogram
https://chronogrammedia.secondstreetapp.com/og/862f1e2e-b8a5-4fe2-9296-9b0e4df78c28/gallery/473127692
#hudsonvalleyecology
#scienceismagic
#natureeveryday
#onewithnature
#forestawareness
#avoicefortheearth
#youngenvironmentalists
#interconnection
#allbeings
#caretakers
#hudsonvalleyschools
#updstatenyschools
#outdoorclassroom
Middle Way School teachers and staff members recently gathered for a read-aloud focused on Black History Month. Our inspiring school librarian Robin Shornstein selected nearly 200 books that celebrate stories and achievements of people from African descent across the globe. These selections are being shared in our classrooms this month—and all throughout the year—to highlight the significant contributions and historical struggles of the African diaspora, to help us better understand the ways in which we are all connected.
Understanding the joys and hardships of others helps us to awaken our own hearts.
We applaud Robin Shornstein for her nomination in @Chronogram magazine’s esteemed Readers Poll this year as Best Librarian in the region. Anyone who has ever encountered her genuine enthusiasm for literacy and joyful involvement with every young reader’s interests will attest to how special she is.
Thank you, Robin, for inspiring both our students and our staff to push boundaries and fall in love with reading!
https://chronogrammedia.secondstreetapp.com/og/862f1e2e-b8a5-4fe2-9296-9b0e4df78c28/gallery/472750434
___
#literacy
#bodhicitta
#interconnection
#librarylove
#sharingstories
#awakeninghearts
#blackhistory
#buddhadharma
#HudsonValleyLife
#HudsonValley
#UpstateNY
#HudsonValleyNY
Last week, we welcomed Carlo Carranza from The Milinda Program of @KhyentseFoundation and Ken Ying from @translate84000 for a visit to the Middle Way School campus.
We were delighted to host them, share ideas centered on Buddhist-based education for children, and hear all about the wonderful projects they are a part of. What a great opportunity to collaborate and help each other flourish!
84000 is dedicated to accurately translating Buddha’s words into a range of modern languages for preservation and accessibility. The Milinda Program was created to ensure that the dharma taught in the future is authentic and powerful by creating a core training curriculum for dharma teachers and setting a common standard for teaching outside of Buddhist institutions.
Learn more about these inspiring projects:
https://khyentsefoundation.org/kf-projects/the-milinda-project/
https://84000.co
Thank you for your heartwarming perspective, @lobsangtonden
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#buddhadharma
#collaboration
#interconnection
#flourishingtogether
#timelesswisdom
#modernage
In many cultures, Saraswati Day invites a celebration of scholarly learning, creativity, language, and an appreciation of the arts. This holiday is named for the pan-Asian deity who symbolizes knowledge, eloquence, and inspiration. Some choose this day to support a school, or symbolically start their children’s learning journey by teaching them the alphabet.
Is there a way you might honor the joy of learning, or embark on a new path of your own? In what ways do you make time for creativity in your week? When is the last time you were inspired by a poem or gazed at the stars in wonder? What music, song, dance, poetry, or films inspire you and why?
If you feel moved on this auspicious day to help learning flourish, we are grateful for your support: https://middlewayschool.org/annualfund/
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#saraswatiday
#celebratingcultures
#learningaroundtheworld
#outdoorscience
#multiplyingminds
#drawingfromcreativity
#inspiredbyothers
#february
✨ Registration is NOW OPEN for Middle Way School SUMMER of WONDER: 5 WEEKS! Jun. 30 – Aug. 2, 2025
Middle Way School SUMMER of WONDER welcomes all children for outdoor adventures and inward exploration! Five incredible weeks feature splashing in the sun, collaborative games, wilderness skills, arts and crafts, meditation, and more! Each week is infused with the Buddhist-based wisdom of awareness, tools for centering oneself, creating confidence, and building community.
Open to rising kindergarteners through rising 6th graders, plus MWS young alumni! If your child will be a young alumni of MWS and is interested in playing a helping role, please email for more info: [email protected].
✨ Early-bird discount NOW through Feb. 15!
To learn more and sign up today, visit:
https://middlewayschool.org/summer/
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#upstatesummercamp
#ulstercountysummercamp
#contemplativecamps
#outdooradventures
#inwardexploration
#connectionstonature
#creatingconfidence
#hudsonvalleysummercamps
#catskillssummercamp
#saugertiescamps
Happy Lunar New Year! Today, people around the world are marking a fresh beginning as they celebrate the start of the “Year of the Wood Snake.” Many gather with their families to celebrate health and prosperity.
✨ How are you starting anew today? ✨
We invite you to reflect on this delightful Lunar New Year song that we’ll be singing on campus. “The Snake Year Song” was written by Middle Way School advisor Harry Einhorn for Middle Way Education:
Look at the sky we see the moon so clear
It’s time to celebrate the lunar year.
Twelve animals each following another
And each one has a lesson to discover.
Goodbye Dragon, thank you for your turn,
It’s time for the Snake, what can we learn?
Welcome snake, you touch the ground
Sensing everything around.
Elegant, you glide and bend,
Beautiful from end to end.
Look at the sky we see the moon so clear
It’s time to celebrate the lunar year.
Twelve animals each following another
And each one has a lesson to discover.
___
#compassionatechildren #alternativeeducation #lovingkindness #lunarnewyear #yearofthewoodsnake #childrensvoices #celebratingchange
Have you heard? Middle Way School is currently taking applications for the 2025-2026 school year! All applications received by January 30 will be reviewed for early admission.
MIDDLE WAY SCHOOL is a Buddhist-based elementary school that blends vibrant academics with timeless wisdom to cultivate compassionate, curious, and creative learners.
Voted ‘Best Independent School in the Hudson Valley’ for THREE YEARS IN A ROW, our forested campus offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor learning and inward reflection. Scientific, student-centered, and inquiry-based approaches nurture a profound understanding of the world and self. We’re rethinking education to empower students with the knowledge, awareness, and skills needed to thrive in the modern world while honoring our interconnectedness with nature and all beings.
Now enrolling pre-K through sixth grades.
Learn more and explore the application process by visiting our Admissions page: www.middlewayschool.org/admissions (link in bio).
Can you please help us spread the word?
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#compassionatechildren #alternativeeducation #lovingkindness #outdoorlearning #artsareessential #somuchtimeoutdoors#buddhisteducationforchildren #hudsonvalleyprivateschools #saugertiesschools #woodstockschools #catskillschools #kingstonny #huntertannersvilleschools #onteoraschools #ulstercounty #privateschoolhudsonvalley #privateschoolupstateny #privateschoolulstercounty #privateschoolcatskills #hudsonvalleyparents
What a beautiful way to welcome winter here in the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains!
As the Middle Way School community pauses to play, rest with our families, and enjoy the blanket of snow that now brightens our landscape, we would like to share our gratitude for the many ways we’ve been supported throughout the year.
Thank you for the encouragement, blessings, contributions of time and energy, and financial generosity you have shared with our school.
We feel your connection to us, and your shared aspirations give us hope for a brighter, more compassionate world.
May this tapestry of goodness be of benefit to all beings everywhere.
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren #interconnection #endlessappreciation #hopefulaspirations #dharmaeducation #doingthistogether #natureismagic
Happy Solstice to everyone—a welcoming of winter in the northern hemisphere, and summer in the southern hemisphere! We join in your celebrations of the seasons, and honor the ways in which we are all connected across the Earth.
Middle Way School traditionally closes the year with a solstice gathering of families. We listen to the joyful songs the children bravely share, we hear their precious wishes for the world, and we exchange the coziness of friendship. The evening ends with a silent walk through the forest, illuminated by little surprises of refuge made by our students.
Their lanterns are inscribed with a wish from their own heart.
Among them…
“May the light in me shine in the light of you.”
“May we all open our hearts to all beings.”
“May all beings have community to trust and lean on.”
“May we all see ourselves in others.”
“May all beings see the light in all forms.”
“May we find refuge in the light of our sangha.”
Thank you to those who created this tradition, and to those who will continue it for years to come. It is such a sweet reminder of our purpose.
___
#buddhisteducationforchildren #solstice #younghearts #metta #dharmaeducation #honoringoneanother
✨ ONE MORE DAY! ✨
We are truly grateful for your enthusiasm, your blessings, and your financial support. As you express your generosity this season, please consider supporting Middle Way School.
Your contribution has a significant impact on each and every one of our students and staff—enriching our programming and facilities, contributing to need-based scholarships for young learners, and furthering our mission of creating education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion.
Make a gift directly, or shop our charitable auction for ONE MORE DAY:
https://go.rallyup.com/mwsholidaymarket/
Auction ends Friday, Dec. 20 at noon (New York time)
All proceeds will support the 2024-25 Middle Way School Fund, which helps grow and further our mission of creating education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion.
✨ THANK YOU!! ✨
___
Many thanks to the families, artisans, practitioners, and businesses who donated to this very special auction!
#allflourishingismutual #saugertiesgives #givingwithgoodnessinmind #communityconnections #buddhisteducationforchildren #locallove #globalgenerosity
✨ The Middle Way School Holiday Market is LIVE!! ✨
EXPLORE, BID or BUY IT NOW:
https://go.rallyup.com/mwsholidaymarket/
An online silent auction focusing on THE GIFT OF COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS, this event’s aspiration is to bring the humans in our local community together, inspire new adventures, and foster friendships. Community is at the heart of what we do—leading with loving-kindness as we cultivate globally conscious minds.
✨ AUCTION ENDS FRIDAY, DEC. 20 AT NOON ✨
All proceeds from the MWS Holiday Market will support the 2024-25 Middle Way School Fund, with a family fundraising goal of $108,000. Thank you for helping us grow and further our mission of creating education for children rooted in Buddhist wisdom and compassion.
✨ THANK YOU! Your support truly makes a difference!✨
Please share the MWS Holiday Market far and wide with your friends and family!! Let’s all flourish together.
___
Many thanks to the families, artisans, practitioners, and businesses who donated to this very special auction! Special thanks to @sawyersavingsbank for sponsoring our fundraising efforts.
#allflourishingismutual #saugertiesgives #givingwithgoodness #communityconnections #buddhisteducationforchildren #locallove #globalgenerosity
Each day at Middle Way School, we dedicate our thoughts and actions to benefit ALL beings everywhere. For such a big aspiration, we start with a simple wish: May all beings be happy and free. Every day, this is our wish for YOU.
___
Please support Buddhist-inspired education for a kinder and more compassionate world. A gift in ANY amount sustains our dharma-based programming and contributes to need-based scholarships for young learners.
https://middlewayschool.org/annualfund
(link also in IG bio)
We’re grateful for your support!
___
May all beings be happy and free
#allflourishingismutual
#buddhisteducationforchildren
#powerofkindness
#metta
#happyandfree
#childrenchangetheworld
The Fawns (pre-k) and Snow Lions (kindergarten) classes were welcomed for a visit to White Feather Farm, a neighboring organic farm with a mission to create connection between community, culture, and land. Our youngest students spent the day learning all about soil, crop growth, and the lives of farm animals. They strolled through the greenhouses and got their hands dirty making a terrarium with a mixture of soil types and local wild plants. One highlight was visiting the chicken coop to inspect where the hens lay their eggs. Each child had the chance to hold a chicken and handle an egg fresh from the nest! Hands-on lessons like these offer precious opportunities to connect big ideas with lasting memories.
THANK YOU to the educators at White Feather Farm for creating connections between farming and fun! We’re grateful to share a community with you.
___
@whitefeatherfarmny
#outdoorclassroom #learningfromtheland #hudsonvalleyschools #saugerties #interconnection #ulstercountyschools #hudsonvalleyalternativeschools
As we lead into a season of gratitude, we’d like to say thanks to the Centerville Fire District and the important role they play in our community. This fall, friendly volunteers from the rescue team visited our campus to talk about fire safety skills. Not only did students get to tour the fire truck (whoa!), they also spent time noticing the sights and sounds that might accompany a rescue—an important skill for staying centered when encountering the unexpected.
THANK YOU, Centerville Fire District, for being such great neighbors! We appreciate your kindness and the bravery you share with our community all throughout the year.
___
@centerville_fire_district
@saugertiesnewyork
Friendship. In honor of Rachel Brown, one of Middle Way School’s first teachers, we celebrate her life and contributions to our community and to all the communities she was a part of.
Rachel passed away in August 2023 and she is deeply missed. We are forever grateful to her for bravely joining the founding team of Middle Way School, when there was only a dream of what it could be. She taught us so much in the time she was with us, leaving an imprint of care and compassion on the school’s DNA.
In memory of the love that Rachel extended to each and every person she encountered, a Friendship Bench has been placed on the playground. The bench is a place for children to take a quiet moment, seek refuge, and cast their gaze inward or outward—whatever serves their wellbeing.
During the summer, a small dedication ceremony was held with some of the families and staff members who were directly touched by Rachel’s time at MWS. Once the school year began, our Dragons class (third grade) helped introduce this special addition to our campus by writing and illustrating a thoughtful book for each of the other classrooms. They made sure their schoolmates feel welcome to enjoy its refuge and take part in its caretaking. If we notice someone taking a moment there, we might pause to ask if they’d like some company.
Our hope is that this Friendship Bench will foster compassion in others, and that Rachel’s influence will continue to grow at our school.
We can help each other flourish.
In each moment, we can look for ways to support one another, while also caring for ourselves. We can share small acts of kindness that might make a big difference. We can make friends along the way.
Let’s do it!
___
#worldkindnessday #compassionatechildren #lovingkindness #metta #hudsonvalley #ouranimalneighbors #naturalwisdom #wisdombynature
With courageous optimism and a love of our community, we’re lacing up our ROLLER SKATES. For one evening, we’ll be skating our hearts out under a disco ball as we raise funds for Middle Way School—where children are learning compassion for all beings.
Please support us. A donation of any amount can go a long way! (link in bio)
Would you like to skate, too? We’d LOVE to share a little joy with you! Friday, Nov. 15 from 4 to 8 pm at Skate Time in Accord, NY.
We appreciate you so much.
___
Special thanks to our hosts @skatetimeny and @bjornqorn
___
@khyentsefoundation
@middlewayschoolpca
#resilienceonrollerskates #youngatheart #compassion #community #discoball #sharejoy #boundlesslove #middleway
Tuesday, Oct. 29 is the final day for the month-long, online BOOK DRIVE where you can support Middle Way School from your own home, on your own schedule. Our goal is to acquire 100 new books for our school library and we’re at 62 so far. Can you help the school by donating a book from our wishlist?
We appreciate the generosity and thoughtfulness needed to create a school library from the beginning. Now in its second year, the MWS library enriches the reading journey of all our students and provides precious teaching materials for our educators.
Thank you for your contribution!
(link in IG bio)
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.
