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A Day In The Life

The Student Experience

Milton Hershey School provides all of its students, pre-K through 12th grade, the opportunity to succeed. Through top-notch academics, personal attention, hands-on learning, religious and character programs, and skills for life, our students are prepared for what’s next. Peek into a day in the life of an MHS student.

Elementary school students

A Day in the Life: Elementary Division

A Typical Day for an Elementary Student

Milton Hershey School provides nurturing guidance and support for its youngest students. Our staff is here to assist with everything from basic needs to homesickness. In this caring setting, students learn the structure of our academic program. They move toward greater self-sufficiency. When it comes time to transition into Middle Division, they are ready.

Elementary Division Weekday Student Schedule

6:15 a.m. – Students rise and make beds
7:00 a.m. – Devotions
7:05 a.m. – Breakfast in the student home
7:30 a.m. – Clean up and student home responsibilities
7:50 a.m. – Arrive at school
8:oo a.m. – Homeroom
8:18 a.m. – Classes begin
3:10 p.m. – Classes end; Return to student home or remain for activities until 4:15 p.m.
5:00 p.m. – Dinner in the student home
6:00 p.m. – Free time
7:30-9 p.m. – Bedtime (*time varies based on age)

*Sample schedule. Times may vary.

Elementary students in music class

Activities Snapshot

Every day of the week, Elementary Division students keep busy doing the things they love. Group and individual activities help them develop confidence and social skills. MHS provides all resources, including sports equipment and musical instruments.

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Middle school student in the hallway

A Day in the Life: Middle Division

A Typical Day for a Middle School Student

Learning in the transitional years emphasizes character development and leadership skills. We also focus on core academic disciplines with our middle school students.

Middle Division Weekday Student Schedule

5:30 a.m. – Students rise and make beds
6:00 a.m. – Student home responsibilities, devotions, and breakfast
7:20 a.m. – Leave for school
7:45 a.m. – Classes begin
2:45 p.m. – Classes end; After-school activities such as tutoring, sports, and clubs begin
5:30-6:30 p.m. – Dinner in the student home
6:30 p.m. – Clean up and free time
7:00 p.m. – Study/quiet time
8:30-9:30 p.m. – Bedtime (*varies based on behavior and activities)

*Sample schedule. Times may vary.

Middle school athletes

Activities Snapshot

An MHS education elevates the body and spirit as well as the mind. Whether sports, arts, or student government, Middle Division students stay busy engaging in their passion. Everything they need—from musical instruments to sports equipment—is provided by MHS for free.

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High school student on campus

A Day in the Life: Senior Division

A Typical Day for a High School Student

Students may take Advanced Placement courses while preparing for college or careers. They have the chance to earn career certifications and participate in internships, co-op programs, and pre-apprenticeships.

Senior Division Weekday Student Schedule

7:00 a.m. – All students get dressed and check-in for breakfast and morning meeting
7:10 a.m. – Personal hygiene, tidy rooms, and morning chores completed
7:40 a.m. – Leave for school
8:00 a.m. – Classes begin
3:00 p.m. – Classes end; tutoring, athletic programming, and clubs begin
5:30 p.m. – Dinner in the student home
6:00 p.m. – Meal clean-up
6:30 p.m. – Study/quiet time
8:00 p.m. – Devotions
8:30 p.m. – Free time/evening snack
9:45 p.m. – Electronics turn-in
10:00 p.m. – Bedtime

*Sample schedule. Times may vary.

Review Transitional Living (12th Grade)

High school students performing in a school musical

Activities Snapshot

Each day of the week, Senior Division students engage in group and individual activities that help them develop confidence and social skills. All related resources—including sports equipment and musical instruments—are provided by MHS.

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Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.