Middle School (GR 6-8)

Religion is the backbone of everything we do.  Begin and end the school day in prayer; each class begins with prayer.  Students learn about the current events in the Church and how the Catholic Church impacts the greater world.  Vocations are explored.  6th Grade instruction focuses on the Old Testament of the Bible; 7th Grade learns about the New Testament; 8th Grade studies the history of the Catholic Church.

Inquiry-based Science classes with hands-on experiments at least twice per week.  Students also lend their experience to younger students, assisting them with science projects.  STEM activities are incorporated throughout the curriculum.  Projects are adjusted to each individual student’s needs.  Caring for a variety of class pets teaches responsibility and compassion.

Math is leveled-Students who demonstrate a high level of proficiency are challenged with an advanced math curriculum.  8th grade students who are ready take Algebra I (which is typically a high school level course.)  All classes are interactive, using computer programs and hands-on activities.

Social Studies is a mixture of current events and history.  Students work on independent and group projects.  Students are encouraged to compete in History Fair Competitions.  Cross-curricular projects throughout the year.

Language Arts combines specific grammar instruction with writing, speaking, and vocabulary development.  Grammar skills are taught using the Daily Grammar Practice (DGP) Program.  6+1 Traits of Writing are used for instruction in developing essays, along with peer editing and unique publishing opportunities.  Greek and Latin root words help students decode vocabulary and unfamiliar words.  Writing is used in a variety of genres, including poetry writing, literature response, essays, blogs, and articles.  Public Speaking opportunities are integrated with subjects such as religion, science, and social studies

Literature involves the study of short stories, poetry, non-fiction articles–especially digital texts–and novels.  Selections vary from year to year and include, but are not limited to:  The Giver; The Diary of Anne Frank; Scrawl; Tuck Everlasting; The Outsiders; Confessions of a Closet Catholic; Hatchet; A Christmas Carol; The City of Ember; Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry; Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life; Animal Farm; Witness; The Cay.