Academics / Curriculum
Students are encouraged to ask questions and engage with their teachers and peers. They’re challenged to be the best version of themselves. Sometimes that means showing up for office hours to solve a tough problem, and sometimes that means chatting with a teacher about how to take the learning beyond the course syllabus.
In Middle School, each core subject receives a strong, dedicated focus, and students are also encouraged to expand their learning. We take an interdisciplinary approach that teaches the transferable skills of each subject. What you learn about communication in math class can be applied to a history lesson, and a theory from your science class can be brought into your creative writing. It’s through this integrated approach that students learn how to see — and understand — the big picture.
View the Middle School Curriculum Guide
English
Foundational skills are introduced and built upon throughout Middle School English. Seventh and eighth graders sharpen their literary concepts and skills through fiction and non-fiction texts relating to culture and civilization, showing them the interconnected nature of language and history, which helps them develop into open-minded global citizens. A significant emphasis on the reading and writing process, grammar conventions and vocabulary is also key.
Global Languages
Chinese, French or Spanish: they all open doors for Middle School students. Each of these courses teaches not just the building blocks of grammar, syntax and pronunciation — though that plays a deservedly large role — but also the culture of the places and people who speak them. Students really begin to understand these languages, any of which can help them access exciting educational and career opportunities throughout their life.
History
Before you can look forward you have to look back. In Middle School, students discover how phases of history affect and influence the next and connect with modern themes. This includes systems of government, technology, religions and belief systems, civics, geography, senses of community, economic systems and cultural narratives. Global citizenship is on full display!
Math
Middle School is where the idea of “math” begins to separate into different disciplines. Various levels of algebra, geometry and more are available to students. Within each, students will find ambitious and rousing coursework that introduces more complex concepts. Our expert teachers remain right by their side throughout, showing students how to truly appreciate problem solving and real world applications.
Science
Critical and creative thinking are both valuable skills — Middle School science teaches both. We teach the foundational concepts of multiple scientific disciplines, such as physics, chemistry and biology, through hands-on, inquiry-based instruction. It’s here where many students’ often develop a passion for the subject that plays a role in their Upper School education and beyond.
Co-Curriculars
Greater exposure to a variety of subjects, disciplines and ideas is a key part of our Middle School curriculum. In addition to the core subjects, students receive an intentional rotation of different courses. This includes a continuation of our human growth and development program, which teaches students emotional and social skills, as well as a choice of a STEM rotation that includes coding, textiles and design, digital fabrication, robotics and woodshop. Additionally, students explore courses in the Visual and Performing Arts.
All Middle School students also participate in weekly clubs such as Book Club, Coding Club, Community Service Club, Debate Club, Eco Club, Math Club, Middle School Newspaper and Robotics Club.
