Middle School | Grades 5-8

The summer prior to starting fifth grade, students participate in a weeklong Summer Bridge program designed to build intentional community between peers.  Our middle school program focuses on guiding students through the transition to greater independence and preparing them for the challenges of adolescence. With a supportive environment and dedicated middle school educators, we empower students to navigate this crucial stage of their educational and life journey.

The middle school curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire. We offer a comprehensive range of subjects, including STEM, French, Spanish, humanities, and the arts. At Girard, eighth graders follow an advanced math sequence that prepares all students to take and pass Algebra 1. Middle school students foster their curiosity, build confidence, and enhance collaboration skills while receiving a well-rounded education that prepares them for high school and beyond.

In middle school, we emphasize the importance of leadership and character development. Our students engage in experiences like Outward Bound, service learning, and discussions that encourage them to explore their strengths, values, and aspirations, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership.

As students progress through middle school, we introduce college readiness initiatives to instill a sense of future planning and goal-setting. Our dedicated counseling team helps students and their families navigate the high school transition and explore future academic pathways.