Middle School Curriculum

Academic Rigor and Social-Emotional Development:

A challenging and engaging academic program emphasizes high-level critical thinking embedded in all core subjects, with rich opportunities for project-based, interdisciplinary and inquiry-based learning.  Our students are confident, engaged learners, who emerge prepared for our well-respected Upper School.  Furthermore, the Middle School’s affiliation and adjacent location to our Upper School give the young students a sense of belonging to a larger, vibrant community while still providing space for them to grow individually among their peer age group. The Middle School boys’ social-emotional potential is developed by creating a caring and socially responsible community, actively teaching emotional literacy at retreats and in the classroom, and taking advantage of teachable moments.

Coursework:

Middle School students enroll in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, theology, art and physical education.  Students also study a world language of their choice (Chinese, French, or Spanish), and participate in our band program or a general music class.  A diverse offering of electives gives your son the opportunity to pursue his specific academic interests.

Middle School Formations & House Program: 

Twice a week, the Middle School hosts its own formation when announcements are made, student achievements are recognized, events and activities are promoted, and rules and expectations are reinforced. In addition, students are welcomed into bi-monthly small group meetings led by faculty mentors who provide guidance on interpersonal skills, character development, digital citizenship and developing a growth mindset.  These six Middle School Houses are led by a student-elected “House Captain” and two faculty advisors or “House Heads”.  Students plan for homecoming week activities, invite in speakers, run fun contests, and organize a service outing.

Co-Curriculars: 

The Middle School program emphasizes participation and skill development, while fostering a competitive spirit to try one’s best and display sportsmanship, win or lose.  We have a rich offering of athletics and co-curricular activities.  Our middle school has either its own MS-only sports programs (soccer, football, basketball, lacrosse, baseball, tennis) or MS teams that are a part of JV programs (cross-country, alpine and Nordic skiing, swimming, golf, track & field).  Hockey has a low-key once-a-week STA MS team, in addition to the boys’ association teams.   Our Middle School is part of several associations, including the CAA (Catholic Athletic Association).  Other activities just for Middle School include Knowledge Bowl, math team, FIRST Lego league and Tech Challenge, and MS VISTA theater’s winter musical.  Upper School activities that welcome MS participation include rifle team, clay target teams, bowling, chess, Cadence (literary magazine), debate, mock trial, and table tennis.