Middle School (Grades 6-8)

College-prep academics, leadership development, and high school readiness

The Middle School Experience

Middle school is a pivotal time. At St. Augustine, grades 6-8 students experience rigorous academic preparation alongside faith formation, leadership opportunities, and explicit high school readiness training. Our dedicated teachers ensure students are challenged academically while supported personally during these formative years.

As a Notre Dame ACE Academy, our middle school curriculum is intentionally designed to prepare students for success at top Catholic high schools.

Rigorous College-Prep Curriculum

English Language Arts

  • Literary analysis of novels, poetry, drama
  • Advanced writing: essays, research papers, persuasive arguments
  • Grammar and vocabulary at high school level
  • Public speaking and debate skills
  • Critical thinking and textual evidence

Mathematics

  • 6th Grade: Pre-Algebra foundations
  • 7th Grade: Pre-Algebra
  • 8th Grade: Algebra I (advanced students)
  • Problem-solving and logical reasoning
  • Real-world applications
  • Preparation for high school math placement

Science

  • 6th Grade: Earth Science & Space
  • 7th Grade: Life Science & Biology
  • 8th Grade: Physical Science & Chemistry
  • Scientific method and inquiry
  • Lab experiments and data analysis
  • STEM challenges and projects

Social Studies

  • 6th Grade: Ancient Civilizations
  • 7th Grade: World Geography & Cultures
  • 8th Grade: U.S. History & Government
  • Primary source analysis
  • Current events and civic engagement
  • Catholic social teaching integration

Faith Formation & Character Development

Middle school is when faith becomes personal. We help students develop a mature, authentic relationship with Christ.

Daily Religion Class

Scripture study, Church history, moral theology, apologetics, and Catholic identity formation appropriate for adolescents.

Confirmation Preparation

8th graders prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation through intensive catechesis, service, and spiritual formation.

Service & Mission

Monthly service projects, mission trips, and opportunities to live Catholic social teaching through action.

Retreats

Class retreats, reflection days, and spiritual formation experiences deepen faith and build community.

Leadership Opportunities

Student Council, peer mentoring, liturgical ministry, and servant leadership roles develop Christian leaders.

Moral Formation

Navigating peer pressure, social media, and adolescent challenges through Catholic values and virtues.

Explicit High School Preparation

We don't just prepare students academically—we ensure they're ready for every aspect of high school.

7th-8th Grade High School Readiness Program

Academic Skills

  • Study skills and time management
  • Note-taking strategies
  • Test-taking techniques
  • Research and citation skills
  • High school-level workload preparation

HSPT Test Prep

  • Comprehensive HSPT preparation course
  • Practice tests and strategy sessions
  • Math and verbal skills review
  • Test-day strategies
  • One-on-one support as needed

High School Application Support

Personal counseling for each 8th grade family including school visits, application guidance, interview prep, and placement support.

Learn more about our High School Preparation program →

Middle School Student Life

Athletics & Activities

  • Volleyball, basketball, track & field
  • Student Council leadership
  • National Junior Honor Society
  • Spelling Bee and Science Fair
  • Drama and music performances
  • Yearbook and school newspaper

Technology Integration

  • 1:1 Chromebooks for all students
  • Google Classroom for assignments
  • Digital research and presentations
  • Coding and computer science basics
  • Digital citizenship and online safety
  • Preparation for tech-integrated high schools

Social-Emotional Support

Middle school can be challenging. Our small classes and caring teachers provide mentorship, guidance, and support navigating friendships, social pressures, and personal growth.

Transition Support

6th graders receive extra attention transitioning to middle school. 8th graders benefit from high school transition programs and alumni support.

Where Our Graduates Attend High School

High School Placement

  • Archbishop Hoban High School
  • Walsh Jesuit High School
  • St. Vincent-St. Mary High School
  • Our Lady of the Elms High School
  • Public High Schools

Alumni Success: St. Augustine graduates consistently earn honors and leadership positions in high school. Many return to share their experiences and mentor current students.

See Middle School in Action

Visit our 6th-8th grade classrooms and meet our middle school teachers.

Schedule Your Tour