Middle School
Middle school is a time of big changes. Students build on a strong academic and character foundation. A challenging curriculum, teachers who know them well, and a structured setting help them stay focused. They learn to think critically, ask better questions, and take ownership of their progress. They finish middle school ready for high school and what comes next.
Middle School Curriculum
Thinking for Themselves
In the middle school years, students take on more challenging coursework while developing the focus, independence, and responsibility to manage it.
English Language Arts
Students read and write across a range of genres, from novels and poetry to essays and research papers. They dig into what a text means, back up their ideas with evidence, and learn to write with a voice that sounds like their own.
Math
Math becomes about solving real problems, not just following steps. Students build a strong foundation in algebra, geometry, number sense, and data, and learn to explain how they reached an answer, not only what the answer is.
Science
Students move from the basics into life, physical, earth, and space science. They ask questions, test ideas, and connect what they learn to the world outside the classroom, building the habits they need for high school science.
Social Studies
Through civics, history, government, and economics, students look at how society works and where they fit in it. They examine how American democracy works, weigh different points of view, and think about what it means to be a responsible citizen.
Advanced Learning
Ready for More?
EXCEL-ERATE gives qualifying K-8 students opportunities for greater academic challenge in English language arts and math. Students may work above grade level and explore concepts in greater depth, and middle school students who qualify can earn high school credit before ninth grade. Students are considered based on test scores and a teacher recommendation.
Character Development
Building Character Through the Middle School Years
Middle school brings more independence and more social pressure, and doing the right thing starts to take real courage. Through Moral Focus™, students explore a different virtue each month through guided discussions, real-world examples, and chances to lead. Students practice strong character in how they show up online, at home, and in their communities, and they're recognized for it along the way.
Wisdom
Respect
Gratitude
Self-Control
Perseverance
Courage
Encouragement
Compassion
Integrity
Extra Support
Help When Students Need It
Teachers hold open office hours Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with a different subject focus each day:
Monday: Social studies and science
Tuesday: English language arts
Wednesday: Math
Thursday: Electives
Students can get help in any subject, catch up on assignments, or attend more than one session if they need help in multiple areas. They attend by choice or at a teacher's invitation.
Beyond the Classroom