Middle School
Grades 6-8

The middle school years are important years in the lives of our students.  The students spend this time preparing for high school.  Developmentally our oldest students are growing and maturing into young adults.  As they become independent learners they also shape their core values and more clearly define their character.  We encourage our middle school students to become actively involved in their classes as well as extra-curricular activities including athletics, robotics, yearbook, Altar serving, community service, peer tutoring, etc.

Advisory/Homeroom

Homeroom consists of a small group of students in grades 6, 7, 8 and teacher advisor.   Students have homeroom each morning and the end of the day with a special advisory time set aside each Wednesday.  These small groups of students will develop close relationships and trust, help foster open communication, understanding and acceptance among its members. Advisory is used for team and character building activities, social/emotional learning, clubs, and community service.

RAM PRIDE REWARDS

Staff use RAM Pride slips to reward good behavior. Slips may be given for students for:  Being respectful and kind to others, able to recognize someone needing help, modeling good behavior.
RAM Pride slips are turned in to the Advisory teacher and students earn points for rewards such as non-uniform coupons, half homework slip, etc.

CURRICULUM

Language Arts
In English, the students study grammar, Daily Oral Language (DOL), and write using different styles.  The students also give oral reports and complete research projects.  In Reading students use novels to apply reading skills and study vocabulary.  Our aim is to help students explore different genres to read and encourage reading for enjoyment.

Math
Our math program builds upon the foundational processes established in the lower grades, enhancing students’ understanding of place value, decimals, fractions, ratios, and percents, while also introducing pre-algebra concepts. In seventh grade, the curriculum focuses on teaching essential beginning algebraic concepts alongside problem-solving, logical reasoning, and critical thinking techniques. By eighth grade, students are ready for linear algebra which prepares them for high school math.

Science
In our science classroom, hands-on labs and engineering projects foster curiosity and critical thinking across grades. The 6th grade Earth Science course emphasizes the dynamic processes shaping Earth, covering topics from tectonic plate movement to meteorology and planetary exploration, while engaging students in Engineering Design through a C-STEM fair. In 7th grade, students explore Life Science, focusing on the relationship between structure and function in living organisms, energy flow in ecosystems, and human-environment interactions, with the opportunity to further delve into the processes of scientific inquiry and engineering design in their final C-STEM fair project. The 8th grade curriculum combines Physics and Chemistry, starting with atomic structure and chemical reactions, and includes practical applications like designing roller coasters to apply Newton’s Laws.

Social Studies
In social studies, students learn about people, issues, and events of significance from the birth of our nation to the current era of globalization, through learning Minnesota history (sixth grade), United States History (seventh grade), and Geography and World Cultures (eighth grade). Eighth grade students will also participate in National History Day, creating research projects on their favorite historical topics.

Students  discover how Minnesota became the way it is today. They examine the important U.S. documents and Supreme Court decisions, as well as important times in history, for their lasting impacts on the American people, economy, and governing structure.  Students  also study civics and economic principles at each individual level, drawing connections between these disciplines and history. Students will have an understanding of the impact of various policies on how people lived, worked, and functioned in society both locally and globally.

Theology
Middle school theology classes focus on developing a personal relationship with God through prayer. Students explore various prayer methods and participate in weekly guided prayer sessions.   Students engage directly with the Word of God through a curriculum rooted in Scripture, inviting them to encounter Jesus and see their own story within the story of salvation history. Throughout all grade levels, emphasis is placed on God as a communion of Persons, who created each of us in His image and likeness for eternal life with Him in Heaven. Our nature is love, designed for loving communion with both God and others.

Music
Music gives students the ability to express their emotions and talents through a variety of the arts. Sixth grade students learn extensive units about the evolution of modern music from the early 1900’s to present day.  Seventh Grade applies music theory and its relationship to logic and math, using the Circle of Fifths and scale structure.  Eighth grade analyzes the evolution of recorded music and technological advances.  Seventh and eighth graders lead the musicals and do theatrical work for Christmas and Spring musical concerts and productions.

Spanish
In Spanish class, students develop a global perspective by exploring the Spanish language, grammar, and literature. Our curriculum introduces students to the rich cultures and traditions of Spanish-speaking countries, helping them appreciate the diversity of our world. Through interactive lessons that include speaking, reading, and writing, students build both confidence and communication skills. Grounded in a supportive and faith-filled environment, our classroom encourages curiosity, cultural understanding, and a love of language learning.

Art
Our art curriculum is designed to nurture creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking through a sequential approach that builds skills over time.  Students begin by exploring the Elements and principles of Art and revisit them each year with increasing complexity.  Lessons incorporate art history vocabulary, global cultures, and a variety of art styles using various mediums helping students connect their work to the broader world.  Through hands-on projects, students develop technical skills while engaging in brainstorming, skill practice, experimenting, problem solving and collaborative work.

Physical Education
The physical education program promotes lifestyle activities rather than competition.  Students will learn about basic physical education components, how to implement movement, fitness and activity into their daily lifestyle habits.  Students are encouraged to continue a variety of physical activities throughout their lives.

Health

Health instruction focuses on providing current and reliable information to our middle school students.  Students are encouraged to make positive physical, emotional, and social wellness decisions affecting current and future lifestyle habits.