Miami Country Day School empowers every student, every day, everywhere to learn with vigor, explore with purpose, strive for excellence, and serve with honor, respect, and compassion as global citizens.
We do this in a community where every student is known and included by engaging the whole child, in and out of the classroom as they discover their full potential.
MISSION & CORE VALUES
MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE OFFERINGS
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH
Students entering sixth grade are placed in the Middle School Math course most appropriate to their profile of previous coursework, diagnostic data, and teacher observations.
Upon successful completion of the Middle School math sequence, students advance to the Upper School Integrated Math program. Upper School math courses taken in eighth grade are reflected on a student’s Upper School transcript.
Honors-level courses are introduced beginning with Integrated Math II and are available to students who demonstrate mastery of prerequisite skills and concepts, along with the ability to think critically, show resilience, and apply their knowledge to novel situations.
Students who complete Math II in sixth grade are on track to matriculate into Calculus by twelth grade without summer acceleration.
ADVANCED MATH
MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE OFFERINGS
Science
The Middle School science curriculum is grounded in theme-based inquiry, asking students to think deeply about the world around them through a scientific lens. Throughout grades 6-8, students revisit the interconnected concepts of water, energy, and conservation through an arc of grade-level themes, including The Science of Where We Are and How We Got Here, Who Calls Florida Home?, and How Our Interactions Shape and Impact the Future. These explorations emphasize action items that address climate storytelling, environmental reporting, and energy justice, blending disciplinary rigor with authentic global questions. With a focus on Mind Brain Education science, emphasis is placed on student agency, relevance, and belonging. Honors-level courses are introduced beginning with STEM 8 and are available to students who demonstrate mastery of prerequisite skills and concepts, along with the ability to think critically, show resilience, and apply their knowledge to novel situations.
Technology
Middle School students are required to take one technology elective. In Grade 8, students have access to some Upper School technology electives. Offerings are curated to inspire students to engage in scientific inquiry and engineering design. Students draw from foundational mathematical and scientific principles to design sustainable and equitable solutions to real-world challenges. Current Middle School electives include Introduction to Robotics, Underwater Robotics, Foundations of Engineering, and AI in Action, while Upper School electives include Python Programming, 3D Animation, Web Design, and Mobile App Development.
English
The Middle School English curriculum is designed to help students build the essential literacy skills that serve as the foundation for lifelong learning and responsible global citizenship. Grounded in critical reading, purposeful writing, and thoughtful engagement with a variety of texts, the curriculum empowers students to explore diverse perspectives, deepen their understanding of themselves and others, and express their own ideas with clarity and creativity. Across grades 6–8, students progress from mastering the fundamentals of reading comprehension, paragraph structure, and evidence-based writing to analyzing more complex texts and crafting nuanced arguments and narratives. Through choice reading, project-based learning, and authentic writing experiences, students learn to read both widely and deeply, use technology ethically and effectively, and apply feedback to refine their work. By the end of middle school, students are prepared to think critically, communicate confidently, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
Social Studies
In Middle School Social Studies, students embark on an exploration of the human story—examining how geography, culture, political, and social forces shape our interconnected world. Grounded in the belief that studying history and the social sciences cultivates compassionate and engaged global citizens, the curriculum empowers students to think critically, question deeply, and consider multiple perspectives as they make sense of the past and its relevance to the present. In sixth grade, students build foundational geographic and cultural understanding through the study of world regions and human-environment interactions. In seventh grade, they investigate key events and ideas in early American history to understand how people and principles shaped the nation’s identity. By eighth grade, students examine civics and government, exploring the philosophical roots of democracy and their own roles as active citizens. Across all three years, students analyze evidence, engage in discussion and debate, and develop the knowledge and skills to participate thoughtfully and responsibly in their communities and the wider world.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVE DESCRIPTIONS
Arts
Art Foundations
This course is an introduction to art. Students will investigate the elements and principles of art through the exploration of a variety of materials and techniques. Sketchbooks will be used for creative assignments and technique practice. Through the semester, students will explore art history, from cave art to contemporary artists who are pushing the boundaries of art and design. Through these explorations, students will work toward developing their artistic voice.
Sculpture Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Concept-driven and collaborative processes inform this beginner level 3-D multimedia experience! Students successfully problem-solve, satisfy technical requirements, and rise to the challenge of working in three dimensions. Throughout the course, students self-assess, engage with the concepts and materials germane to each project, hone their critical-thinking skills, and develop their skills in art analysis. A showpiece of this course is a large-scale installation, featuring an exciting collaboration with the Dance program.
Mixed Media Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Invite your inner artist to stretch and grow through a process-based approach to explore different materials and concepts. Investigate and express your creativity in a multitude of ways, including both 2D and 3D projects. Highlights include soft sculpture, printmaking, painting, and more. Sketchbooks are an essential tool used to plan, doodle, sketch, and work through ideas from initial spark to final product.
Painting & Drawing Explorations Prerequisite: Art Foundations
Students advance their understanding and grasp of techniques in both painting and drawing in this year-long course. Explore technique, creative process, and personal expression. Traditional subject matter includes lifelike drawings, landscapes, and nature studies. Highlights include working with water-based media (ink, watercolor, acrylics), charcoal, pastels, and combining media. In addition to working with a variety of materials, sketchbooks are a main feature for daily prompts, research, and development of ideas. Here, we deepen and broaden our experience and understanding of both painting and drawing as students continue to gain confidence in technique and personal style. Highlights include learning the basics of oil paint, collage and assemblage, culminating in a series based on student choice. Regular class discussions about artists and broader historical concepts help solidify creative practice and deepen understanding. Sketchbooks are essential for both daily assignments and for project research.
Dance 1
In this course, students learn the fundamental techniques and creative aspects of various dance styles, such as Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary.
Students will foster an appreciation for a variety of genre with this fun and educational introduction to the art of dance. Students also learn about the history and cultural significance of different dance styles. Students will learn how to present themselves confidently on stage and effectively communicate their ideas and emotions through movement. They will have opportunities to showcase their abilities through various in-class and school-wide performances.
Dance 2 Prerequisites: Dance 1; Permission of Arts Program
Middle School Dance 2 provides students with the opportunity to further develop their dance skills, creativity, and understanding of dance concepts. Building upon the foundations laid in Middle School Dance 1, this course focuses on intermediate-level dance techniques, choreography, and performance. Throughout the second semester, students will also learn about the history and cultural significance of different dance styles. Students will learn how to present themselves confidently on stage and effectively communicate their ideas and emotions through movement. They will have opportunities to showcase their abilities through various in-class and school-wide performances.
Theatre 1
What does it really take to be an actor on stage? In Theatre 1, students will explore the basics of theatrical performance and the skills needed to act on stage. Throughout the semester students will explore skills like improvisation, scene study, and stage combat through a variety of theatre games and activities. Students will also gain confidence speaking in front of their peers and learn how to take artistic risks in a safe environment. Find out whether you have what it takes to be an actor in Theatre 1!
Theatre 2 Prerequisite: Theatre 1
Loved what you learned in Theatre 1? Let’s keep the learning going in Theatre 2! Theatre 2 is a course that builds off of the skills learned in Theatre 1 and continues to improve the acting technique of the middle school theatre student. In Theatre 2 students will build their confidence and learn how to be successful in a real-life audition. Students will perform monologues from published plays and learn how to act while singing a song (Even if singing can be intimidating!). By the end of this one-semester course students will be equipped with the skills needed to ace their next audition and acting opportunities beyond!
Film Acting Prerequisite: Theatre 1
Have you ever dreamed of seeing yourself on the big screen? Well, get ready for your close up in Film Acting! This course expands on the acting skills developed during Drama 1 and teaches you how to adapt your acting vocabulary for the camera. Throughout the course students will study various film and television acting performances and develop techniques that will be applied through scene work filmed during class. This class is great for anyone who loves to act, or anyone who’s ever dreamed of being in a TV show or movie!
MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES
Stage Makeup
Have you ever seen a makeup look in a movie or musical and been inspired to try it out yourself? Then this is the class for you! Stage Makeup is designed to give students an overview of the skills necessary to be a professional Stage Makeup Artist. Throughout the semester, students will learn exciting makeup techniques like contouring, bruising, and scarring. A highlight of this course will be creating a full-face Zombie look which will combine all of the skills lear ned throughout the semester into one exciting project. Test out your makeup skills and learn new ones in Stage Makeup!
Theater Technology
Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of a play or musical? In this course, students will dive into the world of Theatre Technology, learning how a show is run behind the scenes. Students will explore the areas of Lighting Design, Sound Design, and Marketing Design through the use of programs like Canva, Garageband, and QLab! An exciting highlight of this course will be the creation of the Marketing Poster for the Spring Middle School Musical that is designed entirely by students. Come discover what Theatre Technology is all about!
Theater Design
From Costume Design to Scenic Design, backstage theatre is all about creativity! If you’ve ever found yourself admiring what goes into creating a costume or how to create a believable fake prop, then this is the course for you! Theatre Design explores the exciting hands-on creative areas of Costume Design & Construction, Scenic Design, and Prop Design. A highlight of this course is learning how to sew both with a needle and thread and on a machine! Take this course and learn how to make your imagination come to life on stage!
Singing for the Stage!
Learn proper singing techniques and stage presence through fun vocal exercises and theater activities. Master songs from the radio and musicals while developing skills in breathing, pitch control, and performance style. Practice performance skills that help bring your songs to life on stage. Show off your new skills in class performances and on stage performances for family and friends.
Guitar
Middle School Concert Band is a music ensemble class designed for second and third-year instrumental students. Participants will continue to refine their instrumental technique in the areas of tone production, rhythm, ensemble skills - blend and balance, precision, interpretation, and intonation. When playing symphonic repertoire, students are required to play a concert band instrument— pianists will play a mallet instrument, guitarists and bassists will double on a woodwind or brass instrument, drummers will play orchestral percussion. Topics covered in the first semester include sight reading, the vocabulary of music symbols, and development of ensemble balance and blend.
Beginning Instruments
Beginning Band is the ticket to dive into the world of music, no experience needed! Students learn the basics of playing a woodwind or brass instrument, discovering the magic of making music from scratch. In the first semester, we’ll cover everything from creating awesome sounds to reading musical notes like a pro. Explore the language of music symbols and learn how to blend in perfectly with your bandmates. In the second semester, we’ll work on developing our tone and technique, and explore playing various genres of music, ranging from traditional songs to popular movie themes.
Concert Band Available by permission of Arts Program
Middle School Concert Band is a music ensemble class designed for second and third-year instrumental students. Participants will continue to refine their instrumental technique in the areas of tone production, rhythm, ensemble skills - blend and balance, precision, interpretation, and intonation. When playing symphonic repertoire, students are required to play a concert band instrument— pianists will play a mallet instrument, guitarists and bassists will double on a woodwind or brass instrument, drummers will play orchestral percussion. Topics covered in the first semester include sight reading, the vocabulary of music symbols, and development of ensemble balance and blend. Topics covered in the second semester include soloing, participation in District Solo & Ensemble, and repertoire building.
Early Bird Orchestra Level determined by Arts Program
In Beginning EBO, students explore the world of orchestral performance –no previous musical experience is required! Students wield their bows and instruments, navigating the fundamentals of musical notation and technique with hands-on engagement, collaboratively play classic tunes and contemporary compositions. Through interactive lessons, students not only hone their technical skills but also cultivate a deep appreciation for teamwork and musical expression. As they progress, each student becomes a vital contributor to the group, fostering a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie within the dynamic ensemble.
In Intermediate EBO, students explore diverse orchestral music styles, refining their instrumental skills and musical techniques. Through collaborative rehearsals, they develop a deep appreciation for dynamics, phrasing, and ensemble playing. Regular performances provide opportunities for students to showcase their progress and gain confidence. Join us for an enriching musical journey, where students hone their talents in a fun, challenging and lively ensemble!
In Advanced Orchestra, you will receive exposure to music history and basic theory, along with training in the masterful techniques of string orchestra playing for violin, viola, cello and bass: bowing technique, scale fingerings, articulations, and ensemble blending. A variety of performing experiences are offered in which these skills will be applied. Members have the opportunity to audition for All-State and Divisional festivals. All members are required to participate in school-related concerts, and can audition for the select Chamber Ensemble.
Technology
Foundations of Engineering
This introductory engineering course is designed to introduce middle school students to the fundamentals of engineering, including basic principles of design, problem-solving, and hands-on building. Through interactive projects and group activities, students will explore various branches of engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical, and environmental) and learn the basic concepts of forces, energy, structures, and materials. This course will encourage critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork as students learn how engineering shapes the world around them.
Introduction to Robotics: Build & Code
This course introduces middle-school students to the world of robotics, combining foundational principles of engineering and computer programming. Students will engage in hands-on learning as they build and program robots to solve real-world challenges. Through individual and team-based projects, students will explore the basics of robot mechanics, sensors, and coding, while developing critical problem-solving and collaboration skills. This course is designed to foster creativity, logical thinking, and resilience as students learn to design, troubleshoot, and improve their robotic creations.
AI In Action!: Harness AI Power
Welcome to AI in Action! – a transformative course where students will explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, gaining hands-on experience in leveraging AI tools to enhance their productivity and problemsolving skills. This course will explore essential topics such as software applications, digital design, multimedia creation, and data management. These foundational skills will be integrated with AI tools, enabling students to tackle real-world challenges and innovate creatively and ethically. The course will emphasize the ethical use of AI, highlighting both its immense potential and its risks. Students will learn to navigate these tools responsibly and understand that while AI can amplify their learning, improper use could hinder their development. A key focus will be teaching students how to craft effective prompts when using AI, fostering their ability to communicate with AI systems in a way that promotes learning without short-circuiting their understanding.
Underwater Robotics 1: ROV Basics
In this introductory course, students will dive into the world of underwater robotics by constructing their own remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Through hands-on learning, students will develop fundamental skills in engineering, circuitry, and problem-solving, using PVC and other materials to build a durable ROV frame. This course emphasizes collaboration, technical skills, and creativity as students bring their ROVs to life, preparing for practical applications in Underwater Robotics 2.
Building on the foundational skills from Underwater Robotics 1, this course focuses on refining and testing students’ ROVs in preparation for the Florida Regional competition. Students will construct underwater props, simulate real-world challenges, and practice in controlled environments to master maneuvering, precision, and task completion under timed conditions. This semester emphasizes advanced troubleshooting, teamwork, and strategy, equipping students with the confidence and skills to succeed in competitive robotics.
Python 1 Open to Grade 8
Python 1 focuses on teaching students the core essentials of computer science as well as Python-specific coding practices. The fundamentals lear ned in this course will serve as a foundation on which students can build as they explore different opportunities and pathways within the field of computer science. Topics covered in this course include conditionals, looping, functions, data structures, and more. Python 1 is an excellent course to prepare you for AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A.
Python 2 Honors Prerequisite: Python 1
Python 2 is the second phase of a sequence of Python programming classes that are designed to take you from a coding novice to a coding ninja. In Python 2, you will get your first exposure to advanced coding concepts by building a wide variety of applications.
3D Animation Open to Grade 8
Ready to bring your imagination to life? Learn the fundamental concepts of rigging and 3D animation while utilizing industry-standard software. Complete real-world projects as you build the skills needed to create your own personal masterpiece. Regardless of your experience with animation, this is an excellent course if you want to enhance your skills or gauge your interest in 3D modeling and animation. A highlight of the course is the cartoon short project in which students will use the skills they learned throughout the semester to make a 2-minute cartoon.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES
Mobile App Development Open to Grade 8
Mobile App Development is an entry-level course in which you lear n to build basic iOS and Android apps. You will learn fundamental computer science concepts, but the focus will be on mobile-specific coding practices. This course is designed for absolute beginners, so you do not need any previous coding experience to participate. Mobile App Development also serves as excellent preparation for AP Computer Science Principles.
Introduction to Web Design Open to Grade 8
Have you ever wondered how your favorite websites were built and what makes them tick? Intro to Web Design teaches students how to design websites, essential graphic design skills and technologies, and how to create interactive digital products from the ground up. Whether you have experience in graphic design and web design, or you just want to test the waters, Intro to Web Design is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild. A highlight of the course is the ePub project in which students will create an interactive eBook that can be viewed on any device.
Humanities
Creative Writing
Are you a storyteller? Do you have something to say? Whether you are an experienced writer or have yet to flex your creative writing muscles, this course is for you! Students have an opportunity to practice writing in different genres (poetry, short story, etc.) on a range of self-directed topics. Students strengthen writing skills while developing a portfolio of written work. Ultimately, students have an opportunity to showcase their work by participating in writing contests for middle school students and contributing to the publication of a Middle School Literary Arts magazine.
Introduction to Law and Mock Trial
In this course, students learn about the basic fields of law: Criminal Law; Constitutional Law; Contract Law; Property Law; and Tort Law. Students explore the workings of our legal system and learn the basics of Civil and Criminal Procedure as well as trial procedure. Each student will play a role in a mock trial chosen for the class (lawyers, witnesses, jurors, officers of the court, etc.). Students will develop useful knowledge about the legal system, valuable questioning techniques, public speaking skills, and critical thinking and oral advocacy skills.
Exploring Pathways to Global Citizenship
Global awareness is essential for personal and academic growth. It helps to develop a broader perspective, critical thinking skills, and a sense of global citizenship. By examining different cultures and perspectives, we can expand our horizons and prepare for future challenges. In this course, students will explore Pathways to Global Citizenship via projects in three units: we will start with Belonging to and Impacting Our Community by examining our own identities in relation to others and our place in a global community. For our second unit, we will work on Understanding Stories Beyond Our Own. By discovering others’ stories, we will learn what impact our actions have, understand who we are and what our values are, and begin to appreciate diverse perspectives and experiences. Finally, through our third unit, we will concentrate on Honoring the Past to Better Shape the Future, which will allow us to develop action projects to build inclusive communities and tackle problems we identify, both locally and globally.
Yearbook Open to Grades 6-12
Yearbook is a “real world” experience as we work with professional printers, photographers, budgets, and deadlines to document a year of school history. In covering school events, students will learn the elements of basic layout and design, typography, headlines, story and caption writing. This course provides practice in gathering and analyzing information, interviewing, note taking, and digital photography. Students learn proofing strategies and acquire photographic skills and photo imaging skills with Adobe Photoshop. NOTE: This course is embedded with Upper School Yearbook-A and is a prerequisite for students who wish to continue to Yearbook II in the spring term.
Chess
The course is designed to use the game of chess as an education tool and foster the growth of the Spartan chess team. The class will be catered to each student’s level to maximize the learning process inside the classroom. Each student will be challenged according to his or her ability. No student will be required to compete in official tournaments but students will possess the skills necessary to do so after completion of the class. The curriculum will focus on the tactical element of the game and problem-solving through critical thinking skills. Of course, the main goal of the class is to have fun with chess. Students must have an understanding of how to play chess and how the pieces move before entering this class.
Wellness
Fitness & Wellness Fulfills term PE requirement
This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of strength training in a safe and age-appropriate manner. Through a combination of theory and practical sessions, students will learn the principles of strength training, proper technique, and the importance of physical fitness. During this course, students will engage in a variety of age-appropriate activities aimed at developing strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness. They will learn about different types of exercises, equipment, and training methods commonly used in strength training. Emphasis will be placed on proper form, injury prevention, and gaining a general knowledge in muscular anatomy.
COEP
Dive into an exhilarating journey with our Comprehensive Outdoor Education Program (COEP), where nature becomes your classroom and the wilderness your textbook. This dynamic course integrates hands-on learning with the great outdoors, fostering teamwork, leadership, and a deep appreciation for nature. Students will engage in thrilling activities such as rock climbing, wilderness survival skills, fishing, archery, and developing both physical and mental resilience. Our experienced instructor will guide students through a series of exciting challenges, encouraging personal growth and confidence. Get ready for a transformative experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the invaluable lessons of outdoor exploration.
Time for Academic Success Study Hall
Time for Academic Success provides a quiet, supervised environment for Middle School students to focus on completing homework and studying for assessments during the school day. Designed to support students’ academic growth and well-being, this course is open to all and can be taken in either or both ter ms. It is especially beneficial for those balancing their academic efforts with demanding extracurricular obligations.
Contact Information
Middle School Assistant Director
Ms. Emma Chomin chomine@miamicountryday.org
Middle School Administrative Assistant
Ms. Kelly John johnk@miamicountryday.org
Humanities Department Chair
Ms. Helen Kunde kundeh@miamicountryday.org
Math, Science, and Technology Department Chair
Ms. Joanne Aronson aronsonj@miamicountryday.org
World Languages Department Chair
Ms. Tania Vargas vargast@miamicountryday.org
Director of Arts Education
Ms. Terry Alfonso alfonsot@miamicountryday.org
Director of the Center for Academic Success and Well-being
Mrs. Marra Smith smithm@miamicountryday.org
We offer clubs based on student interest and our capacity to staff them... here is an example slate of our clubs & societies
CLUBS & SOCIETIES
Clubs
Art Club/Crafting for a Cause
Best Buddies
Bionic Spartan Robotics
Board and Card Games Club
Creative Writing
Esports Club
Fashion Design Club
Geography Bee
LEGO Challenge
Math Team
MaxBrain for Sports and Beyond
Model UN
Music Hang
Photography Club
Scrapbooking Club
Yearbook Club
Honors and Leadership Societies
National Junior Honors Society
National Honors Society for Dance Arts
Junior Thespians
EI2 Junior Honors Society
Gade Level Class Officers
Middle School Student Leadership
MIDDLE SCHOOL HOUSES
Middle school is an incredible time of discovery and growth, filled with opportunities to build lasting friendships and develop important life skills. To make this transformative period even more meaningful, the Middle School has introduced a vibrant House system that touches every part of student life.
From the moment students join the Middle School, they become part of one of four Houses – Hibiscus, Palm, Shores, or Iguana. Each House is a welcoming mix of students across all grades, thoughtfully randomized to inspire new friendships and strengthen community bonds.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Students can earn points for their House in countless ways, like showing up for school events, joining in the fun of Spirit Week, or participating in Community Time games. Plus, students are recognized for embodying MCDS’s Core Values: honor, wisdom, purpose, respect, and compassion.
This inspiring initiative was dreamed up and brought to life by the dedicated Middle School Leadership students, making it a program that truly reflects the energy and creativity of the entire Middle School community.
HIBISCUS HOUSE
PALM HOUSE
SHORES HOUSE
IGUANA HOUSE
6TH GRADE - 12TH GRADE
Our Spartans Around: Online Program offers unparalleled flexibility for students to achieve excellence from any location, breaking down the barriers of conventional learning and inspiring a boundless educational journey. We believe that every student is a mosaic—a vibrant tapestry of interests, talents, and aspirations. As a Spartans Around student you are empowered to weave together academic experiences, creating a personalized masterpiece that reflects who you are and who you aspire to become.
What Awaits You as a Spartans Around student?
Curiosity and Talent deserves access to a high quality, flexible learning experience.
Purposeful Living:
Spartans Around is not only about academics; it is also about fulfilling a purpose. Discover what drives you, explore your passions, and design a learning journey that aligns with your aspirations. Live a life of Purpose—one mosaic piece at a time.
Global Perspectives:
Our globally minded programming exposes you to diverse cultures, viewpoints, and challenges. Engage in virtual exchanges, collaborate on projects, and broaden your horizons.
Choice and Flexibility:
Spartans Around pairs time with academics. You have the freedom to allocate your hours—whether it is diving into a novel, participating in a virtual debate, or mastering a new language. Your education adapts to your life, not the other way around.
GARNER INNOVATION CENTER
The Garner Center for Innovation (GCI) empowers Middle School students to explore ideas, design solutions, and bring learning to life through hands-on, project-based experiences. In this creative space, students apply what they learn in class using cutting-edge tools and technologies that encourage curiosity, collaboration, and innovation.
Across the curriculum, classes come to the GCI to transform lessons into interactive, real-world projects. In History, students have reimagined the Revolutionary War through the “Battle of the Battlefields” project, programming robots to navigate the route from Fort Ticonderoga to Bunker Hill. STEM classes design and build boats, cars, and sustainable cities, while World Language students use virtual reality to explore global cultures and perspectives.
The GCI’s signature program, EI²—Entrepreneurship, Invention, and Innovation Honor’s Society, gives students the chance to design, invent, and experiment with emerging technologies. Students learn 3D design and printing, laser cutting, programming, robotics, and electronics with Arduino, as well as 2D design using
the Adobe Suite and Canva. EI² nurtures creativity and confidence as students move from concept to prototype, turning ideas into reality.
The program culminates in a major project and symposium in the spring of their 8th grade year.
The GCI also fuels our thriving FIRST Robotics program, where students experience the excitement of competition and the power of teamwork.
The Spartan Avengers, our LEGO Challenge Team (Grades 4–6) and our middle school FTC team, the Bionic Spartans (Grades 7–9), engage in hands-on engineering, coding, and strategy while learning the values of “gracious professionalism” and “coopertition”. These teams blend STEM expertise with creativity, outreach, and community engagement, helping students grow into innovative thinkers and collaborative leaders.
Through every class and program, the Garner Center for Innovation inspires Middle School students to imagine boldly, create fearlessly, and shape the future with curiosity and purpose.
THEATRE
Every year, the Middle School has a musical and at least one play. Auditions are open to all middle school students.
COEP
THE COMPREHENSIVE OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAM
“The Comprehensive Outdoor Education Program (COEP) engages 6th–8th grade students in experiential learning that strengthens academic understanding, physical ability, and leadership skills. Through hands-on exploration in areas such as camping, navigation, survival, and wilderness medicine (including CPR and first aid certification), students apply classroom concepts in real-world settings. COEP fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental awareness, complementing traditional education with meaningful, experience-based learning.”
GLOBAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION
Gateway Jr.
Students in Grade 6 and 7 have the opportunity to travel with t heir cohort to experience and learn about the culture, history, and customs of a chosen country. 7th and 8th grade students will study across the province of Québec, Canada
G8Way
This travel program is specifically designed and reserved for our 8th graders. 8th grade students will study primarily across Buenos Aires, Argentina and will also have the opportunity to study nearby in Colonia, Uruguay.
STUDENT SUCCESS NETWORK
The Student Success Network is dedicated to cultivating a supportive and inspiring educational environment where students of all grade levels can reach their fullest academic and artistic potential.
We provide personalized, effective tutoring tailored to each learner’s unique strengths and goals. Every day, we strive to build confidence, strengthen academic foundations, and ignite a lifelong passion for learning.
ATHLETICS
Our athletics help to foster team-building skills, problem-solving skills, self-discipline, and self-confidence. The program also promotes a healthy lifestyle with physical activity. Practice is every day after school during each season.