Far Brook’s Upper School - A Distinctive and Transformative Experience

The Eighth Grade Perspective

In episode four, Head of School Amy Ziebarth is joined by Mike Goldfarb, Associate Director of Upper School and 7th and 8th Grade English Teacher, along with four Eighth Grade students. They share their firsthand perspectives on what the Far Brook experience has meant to them, the academic rigor that challenges them, the leadership and mentoring opportunities that ground them, the immersion travel that expands their worldview, and the close-knit relationships that define our community.

Far Brook’s Upper School - A Distinctive and Transformative Experience

In episode three, Head of School Amy Ziebarth and Director of Upper School Adam Bisceglia dive into a discussion about our Upper School, a cornerstone of the Far Brook journey. They discuss how Far Brook’s progressive philosophy evolves in Grades 4–8 to build community and a sense of belonging while fostering academic growth, the social-emotional support that guides students through a complex developmental stage, and the opportunities—both in and out of the classroom—that shape confident, empathetic young people who are prepared for high school and beyond.

The Living Classroom: Progressive Education in the Garden

“The Living Classroom: Progressive Education in the Garden” with Toby Adams, Far Brook's Garden Educator, Co-Founder of Kaleidoscope Garden Design, and Director of the Edible Academy, New York Botanical Garden. School As It Should Be: Far Brook School's Podcast. In this inaugural series, we’ll explore what it means to educate children in today’s world through the lens of progressive education and a strong sense of community and belonging. We’ll be speaking with faculty, students, and guests about the ideas and practices that shape learning at Far Brook and how children learn, grow, and thrive.   Far Brook School is a progressive independent school for students ages 3 through Grade 8, in Short Hills, NJ. Situated on a 9-acre campus, our experiential program is grounded in nature, enriched by the arts, and defined by academic excellence. We nurture curious, compassionate learners and aspiring change makers.

The Science of Reading

School As It Should Be: Far Brook School's Podcast. In this inaugural series, we’ll explore what it means to educate children in today’s world through the lens of progressive education and a strong sense of community and belonging. We’ll be speaking with faculty, students, and guests about the ideas and practices that shape learning at Far Brook and how children learn, grow, and thrive.