Core Classes

Our academic program is designed to prepare students for the rigor of college-preparatory high school academics, while helping students develop the organizational skills and habits necessary to become self-sufficient as learners. Teachers design curriculum based on the North Carolina State Standards, and students learn through active participation in the classroom, conducting research, collaborating with peers, and presenting their work. Students are involved and accountable for their own learning, taking part in problem-solving and discovery in class.

Middle school students take four daily core classes: English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, Math, and Science. While students study each of these subjects, they also participate in at least one multidisciplinary Learning Expedition each year, examining a big question across the different subjects.

Students learn in heterogeneous classrooms, where every student can learn at a high level. As a small school, we get to know our students well, and create balanced classes where every student has peers who can challenge and inspire higher levels of achievement.

For Accelerated Learners

Students who demonstrate strong academic and work skills are given opportunities for accelerated classes. Qualified 8th grade students can choose High School Math 1 or enroll in high school level Spanish or French classes.

Enrichments & Languages

In addition to the core classes, students take a variety of enrichment classes, including physical education, art, choral music, technology and coding, and Literacy Lab, a differentiated literacy class that supports reading and writing in all subjects. Starting in 8th grade, students may take a foreign language (French or Spanish) for high school credit. Other electives are offered based on student and teacher interests, including theatre, songwriting, and engineering.

Character & Service

Crew meets daily, providing students the opportunity to develop strong relationships with their Crew leader and peers, and to practice skills like collaboration, persistence, leadership, and teamwork. Topics such as bullying, drugs and alcohol, positive relationships, and social media are covered. Crews also choose service projects around and beyond school and learn to take action to improve their communities.