MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

While middle school can be a tough time for students, students at The Oaks embrace these years with confidence. The Oaks provides an atmosphere for students to embrace their own identity at an early age. Students are not expected to fit a certain mold, so there is freedom to become the person God intended them to be. Students grow in confidence through frequent feedback from teachers and other students. Teachers look for moments for students to shine during these years, recognizing that students are gifted in many different ways.

Students are exposed to a wide variety of literature to foster a love for reading. Students receive daily grammar instruction for mastery of this subject that’s critical for writing skills. Students are introduced to creative writing and paragraph writing. Students have extended daily time for math, so they can learn new concepts, work the problems, and ask questions with a teacher present. Students conquer math and language in the morning, so the afternoons include engaging history and hands on science lessons that inspire students to enjoy the learning process. The rest of the day includes PE and Electives. Students love time outdoors with games, walking, basketball, and being in nature. Electives offer an opportunity for students to try new things such as theater, sports, show choir, photography, cooking, etc.

Finally, students in 6th-8th grades get to experience school sports for the first time. The Oaks offers an opportunity for students to enjoy sports that may not shine in a public school or even rec sports experience. Through middle school sports, students learn new skills, get great physical activity, and foster relationships that will continue for years.  

Teachers do not allow conflict to grow among students. As teachers notice arguing among students, teachers offer feedback to help the students grow relationally. If the conflict continues, students have the opportunity for mediation from our school director where both students usually leave feeling strengthened by the process. Students grow from the problem solving around conflict and learn valuable life skills for the future.