A Message from Middle School Leadership

Dear Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grade families, 
 

This can be a tricky time of year for many middle schoolers. As students grow and change, we know that this age can be an especially vulnerable period for developing concerns around eating habits and body image. At Laurel, we take a proactive and compassionate approach to supporting students’ overall well-being.

Through our Seminar program, students engage in age-appropriate conversations and activities led by faculty and experts in the field to help them develop a healthy relationship with food, body image, and self-esteem. We also consult regularly with specialists who guide our practices and help us address concerns with care and expertise. For our student-athletes, we emphasize “Fuel Time” to promote healthy, balanced nutrition and the importance of nourishing the body to sustain energy and performance.

We know that addressing these sensitive topics is most effective when done in partnership with families. We invite parents to continue learning and engaging in these conversations with us. Please save the date for a Middle School Parent Coffee on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 8:00–9:00 a.m. in the Alumnae Room, featuring Dr. Kelly Bhatnagar. Dr. Bhatnagar is a clinical psychologist and one of only two professionals in Ohio formally certified in Maudsley Family-Based Treatment for adolescent eating disorders. She brings over 15 years of experience in the scientific study and treatment of eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, mood challenges, and anxiety across the developmental span. In her session, she will speak about eating and body image during adolescence, exploring both common challenges and evidence-based strategies for prevention, early support, and early intervention. We hope that you can join us for this informative session. 

Warmly,

 

Candace Maiden

Director of the Middle School