Mini Course Week Wrap-Up!

Dear Middle School Families,

As I write, Mini Course Week 2025 is nearly complete. The reports are in, and despite some snow on Wednesday, the students are having a blast! You can tell from the pictures shared throughout the week why Mini Course Week is a signature program in the Middle School. Students have the opportunity to learn deeply, free from the pressures of grades, in a relaxed atmosphere alongside passionate teachers. 

Whether your child is in grade 5 or grade 8, they have the chance to both mentor and be mentored as they tackle new challenges from race car driving to baking. As they learned about sports journalism, visited with a falconry expert, toured museums, prepared cuisines from around the globe, or hiked along snowy paths, students learned to take risks, overcome their fears and develop new interests.

I love to see the light in the children’s eyes as they tell me about their Mini Course Week adventures. It fills me with so much joy to know that PDS offers these opportunities. Mini Course Week is all about community and lifelong learning.

I would be remiss if I did not thank our Middle School teachers and Assistant to the Middle School, Sarah Flaim, for giving their all this week to ensure the program was a success. Thank you, parents, for your endless flexibility, patience, and support of the program. Your children are tremendously resilient and downright amazing!

Please enjoy the long weekend with your family.

My very best to you,

Renée C. Price

Click here to view photos from Mini Course Week!