The middle school years are crucial for the intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional, and physical growth of students. Our middle school program aims to support the overall development of students. We believe that a positive Christ-centered learning experience is achieved through collaboration among families, students, and teachers. In 5th and 6th grades, students are placed in a "step-up" classroom model that combines elements of Lower School classrooms with the increased freedoms of 7th and 8th grade classrooms.
Teachers employ various methods, such as the Socratic method, logical reasoning, Harkness discussions, and real-world applications, to help students develop critical thinking skills. Students build on their existing skills to tackle new challenges. The core subjects in middle school (History, English, Math, Science, and Bible) are available at standard or honors levels. While both tiers are rigorous and college-preparatory, honors courses emphasize higher student engagement and critical thinking. Students must meet specific criteria, including teacher recommendations, test scores, and grades, to enroll in honors courses.
In addition to academic subjects, middle school students have the opportunity to take elective courses, such as Band, Chorus, Drama, Music Appreciation, STEM, Physical Education, and Art. Students in grades 5 and 6 participate in each elective, while students in grades 7 and 8 can choose electives based on their interests. With various academic placement options and elective choices, students can explore and nurture their gifts and talents.
Our mission statement, "Equipping hearts and minds of students to impact the world for Christ," is put into action through our emphasis on serving the local community. We prioritize the cultural mandate found in the Book of Genesis (Genesis 1:26-28) and believe that as Christians, we have a responsibility to stewardship of God’s creation. Students take part in community service opportunities throughout each year, learning to lead with a servant's heart and make an impact for Christ.
At North Hills, our students are taught The E.A.G.L.E. Way, which is based on the principles of Empathy, Accountability, Gratitude, Lovingkindness, and Esteem. We believe that by modeling and instilling these values, we can positively impact the world. Collaboration between staff, students, and families is key to achieving this goal. We prioritize creating a sense of belonging for our students, as we believe it leads to improved well-being and academic engagement.
For our Upper School students, we have a House System that starts in 7th grade, placing students into houses where they stay throughout their upper school years. Houses provide a smaller, close-knit community within the larger school community, allowing students to form bonds with peers they may not interact with otherwise. During house time, students work on team building and participate in house competitions, including academic, artistic, and athletic competitions. Students earn house points through competitions as well as academic achievement, attendance, and community service.