The 7th and 8th grade years logically build from experiences students have in 6th grade. In 7th and 8th grades, we preserve our main teaching and learning pedagogies-emphasizing process over product, questions over answers, and depth alongside breadth.  At the same time, our teachers capitalize on students' cognitive and social development. Learning becomes deeper and more challenging as our teachers introduce more abstract concepts to promote critical thinking.

In 7th and 8th grades, students rotate classes each period and have different instructors for each class.  Students' academic and community responsibilities, as well as their privileges increase. We ask our 7th and 8th grade students to serve as role models to younger students and design curricular opportunities for these purposes.  7th and 8th grade students take on leadership positions in the middle school, such as serving as Student Council members, academic tutors or yearbook editors. 

A three-day, two-night night trip to the Santa Cruz Mountains highlights the beginning of 7th grade. A four-day, three-night trip to Yosemite kicks off 8th grade. On these trips, students engage in activities involving team building and social awareness. These values are echoed throughout the year, both in classes and in intimate advisory groups that meet bi-weekly.

8th grade students receive education informing them about transitioning to high school. Our High School Outreach Coordinator works closely with students and families on the high school application process, guiding them toward appropriate options and resources. Approximately one-third of our graduates attend independent high schools, one-third attend public high schools, and one-third attend parochial high schools.