Middle School Boarding

Our Middle School boarders spend plenty of time on- and off-campus, enjoying a variety of planned activities together as a group each weekend. Here are just a few:

• Capture the flag and other fun outdoor games

• A trip to the movie theater

• Indoor rock climbing, laser tag, and mini-golf

• Hiking and biking in local parks

• Game nights (board and video games)

• Pool parties/free swim

• Trips to St. Louis area attractions

Houseparents plan the majority of social activities for boarders in the Middle School dorms, making sure they have age-appropriate opportunities to explore St. Louis. Middle School students also get involved and offer input on planned activities each weekend based on their hobbies and interests. Whether it’s a game of soccer on the School fields or trips off campus to trampoline and water parks, there’s a wide variety of activities to enjoy throughout the semester.

As well as enjoying a full array of planned activities, students have free, unstructured time to relax and create their own entertainment—just as they would at home. A benefit of boarding is there are always friends close by for a pick-up game of basketball, listening to music on the lawn, or taking a walk with a friend. Middle School students have about an hour each school day for unstructured fun. On weekends, they have between two to three hours to explore their own interests or simply unwind. 

Study Hall occurs for two hours every school night and additional times on weekends. Study Hall provides a quiet, self-directed block of time to complete homework assignments. Students study either in their own rooms or in the dorm living room, depending on their needs. Additionally, houseparents check in with each student daily to go over assignments. A tutor or homework helper is available for anyone needing additional academic support during Study Hall. Weekends provide additional time to complete assignments at one’s own pace. 

Boarding students regularly volunteer for “Service Saturdays.” Middle Schoolers focus on contributing to the School community through projects like planting trees on campus or helping to weed the school gardens, as well as venturing off campus to help serve the greater St. Louis community. Acts of service can be as simple as picking up trash around the waste bins in the dorm bathroom, helping clean up the common areas before bed, or supporting  other students in expressing excellence before room inspection. Our goal is for service to become habitual and reflected in the daily life of every boarding student. 

Learn more about service at Principia Middle School.

In the Middle School dorms, self-governance is a primary focus. Being courteous and respectful of others, as well as demonstrating timeliness and responsibility, are all aspects of the dorm culture we nurture and practice. Students may also be asked to help each other wake up on time or support one another academically and socially. The opportunities to lead by example are plentiful in our Middle School dorm homes!