Why 9th Grade?
Let us introduce you to the capstone year at IMS — where we prepare students for their future while preserving the joy of childhood.
A message from the class of 2025
Program Highlights
Academics
Our ninth grade program blends humanities and hard sciences to equip students with the content and collaboration skills required to succeed after IMS. Ninth graders are challenged to think critically, ask tough questions, and engage with topics that have a direct and relevant impact on their lives. Combined with the leadership opportunities awaiting them, the ninth grade is far more than just the next step in an IMS education — it’s the bridge to their next ascent in life. Specific academic offerings to our ninth grade program include:
- AP Computer Science Principles
- AP Precalculus
- Advanced Language Courses (Spanish, Mandarin, Latin)
- Montserrat Sustainability Program
- Poquonook Solutions Project
- Studio Art Intensives (Ceramics and Sculpture)
Leadership Opportunities
Students are given countless leadership opportunities throughout their ninth grade year, including the chance to become:
- Dormitory Prefects
- Peer Mediators
- Team Captains
- Lower Campus Mentors
- Club Leaders
- Student Council Executive Officers
- Wilderness Trip Leaders
- Lunch Table Proctors
Student Life
During a year where opportunity, leadership, critical thinking, and unwavering support converge during a critical time of growth, ninth graders:
- Participate in off-campus Outdoor Adventure and Education trips at the beginning and end of the school year.
- Participate in advisory groups with faculty mentors and their peers.
- Participate in regular service learning opportunities on and off campus.
- Write, practice, and deliver a speech as part of IMS “This I Believe” tradition.
- Strengthen their self-confidence and gain a broader understanding of who they are as learners.
- Grow their catalog of experiences and expand their comfort zones, becoming more well-rounded candidates for secondary school.
- Become a cohesive class and develop lifelong friendships.
Secondary School Advising
With the help of our Secondary School Advising team, we ensure that our ninth grade families feel prepared for secondary school applications and are given the necessary coaching and resources to find the best secondary school for them. Our graduates attend a diverse range of competitive secondary schools, finding success in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in life. Learn more about our Secondary School Advising Program.
This We Believe
Unique to the ninth grade year is our “This I Believe” speeches that chronicle the personal guiding beliefs and values held by each of our ninth graders. Seen as a culminating moment for the personal development of a student’s time at IMS, the delivery of these speeches in front of peers fosters incredible trust and ultimately brings us closer as a community.
This We Believe
“This year has shown me the importance of being present, of fully living each experience. I’ve learned that home is not where you are — it’s the people, the connections, and the memories you create.”
