Picture a sixth-grade boy who’s been struggling — feeling lost in big classrooms, dreading reading and writing assignments, and convinced that school isn’t for him. When he joined Aim High School’s middle school in Farmington Hills, he was carrying that weight of self-doubt.
“He had a lot of learned helplessness,” says Middle School Dean Molly Malek. “He had really fallen into a routine of thinking that he couldn’t do things by himself.”
But soon, things shifted. Aim High’s approach, which supports independence through structured assistance, changed how this boy approached school — and saw himself.
“We provided him with guides, structured notes and additional supports,” Malek says. “Now he’s in eighth grade. He’s been put in positions of success and built up his confidence.”
Stories like his are at the heart of Aim High, an alternative school for kids in grades 6-12 with unique learning needs, including autism, ADHD and anxiety. Since 2014, its middle school program has nurtured students’ unique potential, currently helping 25 tweens find their footing and thrive in and out of the classroom.
3 things parents should know about Aim High’s middle school
1. There are flexible, individualized academics
Academics at Aim High aren’t one-size-fits-all. “When students come to us, they’re placed in classes based on their skills and personality,” explains Malek. A 13-year-old who’s behind in her math skills might join a younger group. There’s also space for students who progress quickly.
“Our small class sizes really allow us to get to know them one-on-one,” she says.
During visits to determine enrollment, students work with teachers who evaluate their math and literacy skills and level — in addition to getting an idea of their learning style. These evaluations in the classroom give teachers a solid picture of each student.
“Very quickly, 80% to 90% of the time, we get a feel for what kinds of supports they’re going to need, and even what kinds of other students they’ll like and vibe with well.”
2. Social skills are built into every interaction
Many of Aim High’s middle schoolers need social support, too, and it’s woven into daily class life.
“If there’s a disagreement or a personality clash, it’s a teachable moment almost every time,” Malek says. Aim’s strict technology policy, where students turn in their personal tech at the start of the day, also encourages real-time, face-to-face communication.
All students take a communications class for extra support, learning skills ranging from conflict resolution to expressing their feelings effectively. To help with social confidence, Aim High also holds monthly Hawk Hangouts, where students can play games, bond and relax.
“Parents are invited, too,” Malek says. “They’re in a different room where they can meet, talk about the issues they share and have a safe space.”
3. Supportive communication with parents is essential
Open, regular communication is another key piece of the Aim middle school approach. “We send weekly progress reports with grades,” Malek says. “If a student is struggling or doing well, we put comments on those grades. So parents know exactly how their students are doing.”
Each family also has a dedicated advisor, and they’re encouraged to reach out.
“If they need something, they simply need to email, call or pop in before or after school,” Malek adds. This open-door policy keeps everyone connected and on the same page.
How Aim High’s middle school creates an inclusive environment
The supportive approach at Aim High goes beyond academics, including special opportunities like:
- Summer orientation for new students: “It’s academic, but with a more relaxed feel, more like a summer camp,” Malek says. Students get comfortable with the school, meet their peers and get familiar with their teachers — all ease first-day jitters.
- Focus on student interests: Teachers go out of their way to know what students love. Molly recalls a middle schooler who was obsessed with art. “I had her in social studies, and instead of writing an essay, I had her create a poster that used her artwork to explore the ancient civilizations we were studying,” she explains — which makes school feel more engaging and personal.
- After-school clubs and events: From the esports team to Create/Community (a monthly creative arts event), Aim offers diverse activities that students love and help them connect. “We even have all-school dances,” Malek says.
Discover Aim High’s middle school community
At Aim High School, the middle school creates a space where students feel understood and supported, Malek says. “If you have that relationship and that trust,” she explains, “then the academics are going to come.”
The close-knit setting helps students build both their academic skills and confidence, preparing them to transition smoothly into high school.
To learn more about Aim High School’s middle school, visit its middle school website.
