The Middle School Experience for 6th Grade, 7th Grade, and 8th Grade Students

In This Section

A Place to Explore and Grow

Middle school at Greenhills is a place to explore, to ask big questions, and to discover what kind of learner—and person—you want to become. It’s a time to stretch, to try, to fail safely, and to try again. It’s a place to grow, with people who see you for who you are and who you’re becoming.

Purposeful LEARNING THAT INSPIRES

In 6th through 8th grade, students continue to build a strong foundation in writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving, while also discovering the joy that comes with learning. Whether it’s designing a science experiment, diving into literature, or tackling a complex math challenge, Greenhills middle schoolers experience learning that feels alive and relevant.

See the Academic Experience 

See the Course Guide

 

Middle school students working together to accomplish a task.

 

A Distinct Middle School Experience

Middle school at Greenhills is a place to explore, to ask big questions, and to discover what kind of learner—and person—you want to become. It’s a time to stretch, to try, to fail safely, and to try again. It’s a place to grow, with people who see you for who you are and who you’re becoming.

 OptimizedImage,Middle School,,Optimized
Integrated Public Speaking

Public speaking is woven throughout the middle school experience, with two-week units integrated into English, science, and history. Students build confidence as speakers by performing dramatic monologues and scenes from Shakespeare, delivering engaging, data-driven science presentations, and preparing speeches and debates that deepen their understanding of history and human civilizations.
 

Students learning Spanish in a full-immersion classroom
Full-Immersion World Languages

Students can study Chinese, Latin, French, or Spanish, developing not only language proficiency but also a deeper understanding of culture and history. Chinese, French, and Spanish are taught through full speaking immersion from the very first day, helping students quickly build confidence and conversational fluency. Latin courses explore both Latin and Greek, tracing their influence on modern languages and the ancient world.
 

 OptimizedImage,Middle School,,Optimized
Advisory and Teaching Teams

Each middle school grade is supported by a dedicated teaching team that meets regularly to discuss every student's progress, coordinate upcoming activities and trips, and ensure every child is known and supported. Each student is also paired with a faculty advisor, who serves as a trusted mentor and primary point of contact for families throughout the year. Daily advisory time gives students space to connect in small groups, gather as a grade or division, or simply recharge.
 

A senior meets their 6th grade buddy for the first time.
Student Mentoring Program

Our 6th Grade-Senior Buddy Program pairs each senior with a sixth grader for a year of connection, guidance, and fun. They gather throughout the year for grade-bridging activities that build trust and friendships. From day one, sixth graders feel known and seen while getting a window into their future at Greenhills.
 

 OptimizedImage,middle school,robotics,,Optimized
Middle School Robotics

The robotics program gives middle school students hands-on experience solving real-world challenges while developing technical, collaboration, and communication skills. Students design, build, program, and refine a robot as members of a team, then put their work to the test by competing in the FIRST Tech Challenge each fall.
 

 OptimizedImage,middle school,,Optimized
Student-Focused Schedule

Our schedule was designed from the ground up to support deeper, more meaningful learning. A later start, four longer classes each day, and a waterfall rotation give students the time and focus they need to engage more fully in their classes, while reducing homework, lowering stress, and creating a healthier balance when they head home.
 

 

Teachers Who Know and Bring Out Each Student's Best

Middle school is a time of transition, and at Greenhills, students don’t navigate it alone. Our teachers know how to encourage a quiet student to share their perspective, how to challenge a student who’s ready for more, and how to support each student through the ups and downs of these formative years. Our small class sizes and advisory program ensure each student is known, seen, and guided with care.

 OptimizedImage,Middle School,,Optimized

 
 OptimizedImage,Middle School,,Optimized

Opportunities to Play and Connect

Learning doesn’t stop when the class period ends. It happens on stage in a play, during a club meeting, on the athletic field, and in the small moments that build confidence and connection. Students discover new interests and passions, learning how to lead and how to contribute as part of a team.

Even in middle school, play is still essential to learning. Our students have time each day to step outside, move, and connect with friends, because research shows that unstructured time helps them focus, reduces stress, and supports healthy development. Recess isn’t something kids outgrow here; it’s a valuable part of how they grow into curious, balanced learners who can return to their studies with fresh energy and joy.

Middle school girls basketball game

 
An action shot of a tennis player

Middle School Sports

Athletics in the middle school focuses on participation, skill-building, and discovering the joy of sport, and athletes benefit from being part of a thriving 6–12 athletic program. They practice and compete in the same high-quality facilities our varsity teams use, and they learn from coaches who understand not only the fundamentals of their sport, but also how to help young adolescents grow in confidence, resilience, and teamwork. The experience gives students a strong foundation while helping them envision what lies ahead as Greenhills athletes.

Because seasons are intentionally short and practices take place immediately after school, students have the freedom to explore multiple sports, perform in a play, join a club, or simply discover new interests. Athletics become another way to build friendships, challenge themselves, and feel connected to the school community, rather than a single path they have to choose.

Learn More About Athletics

Ready for What’s Next

Greenhills middle schoolers leave eighth grade ready for the challenges of upper school, with a strong academic foundation and a clear sense of who they are. They enter the next chapter as curious, capable learners who know how to ask questions, seek understanding, and continue growing into their best selves.

Learn About What Happens in the Upper School

Explore Our Campuses