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Junior High students wearing gloves and lanyards work together to document evidence during a forensic science investigation in the school hallway. One student photographs evidence markers while another student explains observations to the group.

Junior High students interview a staff member at the front desk as part of their forensic science investigation. Students take notes and gather information while practicing observation and questioning skills.

A Junior High student wearing gloves carefully examines and documents evidence while meeting with a staff member during a hands-on forensic science activity. Papers, notes, and investigation materials are spread across the desk.

A Junior High student wearing gloves presents collected evidence to a staff member at the school reception desk during a forensic science investigation. Another student stands nearby observing the interaction.

A Junior High student kneels in the hallway photographing evidence markers and footprints during a forensic science investigation. Measuring tools and evidence markers are placed carefully around the scene.

Junior High students gather in an office classroom space discussing clues and evidence with the Head of School during a collaborative forensic science investigation activity.

Junior High students wearing gloves analyze and photograph classroom evidence as part of a forensic science unit. One student documents materials while another carries an evidence collection bin.

A teacher dressed in black with a veil and lace gloves “mourns” the passing of her fictional mentor as part of an immersive Junior High forensic science investigation scenario. The dramatic role-play helped students engage in storytelling, observation, and evidence analysis throughout the unit.

May 21, 2026

Kathy Kolata

Many people easily see the value of Montessori education in the early childhood classroom through the hands on materials and focus on independence. What is sometimes less understood is how those same Montessori principles evolve and are just as important during adolescence. Junior high students are driven by curiosity, purpose, and the desire to do meaningful work. When students are genuinely engaged and trusted with challenging material, they are capable of remarkable levels of critical thinking, collaboration, and responsibility.

Our forensic science program is designed with these Montessori principles in mind. Seventh and eighth grade students learn authentic forensic science techniques and apply them to solve a staged murder mystery within the school community. Teachers and staff become suspects and witnesses while students investigate crime scenes, search for evidence, analyze clues, and defend their conclusions in a mock trial. Through this work, students practice abstract thinking, problem solving, respectful communication, and freedom within limits. They learn to manage independence responsibly while working within the expectations of the community. Most importantly, they experience what happens when adults believe they are capable of meaningful, sophisticated work that connects directly to their interests and curiosity.