Current research reveals the critical importance of middle grades in a student’s performance in high school. The middle grades are the perfect time to build the necessary skills to achieve success in high school and beyond.

At Balboa School, we embrace this importance by building a solid foundation for our middle school students, fostering future achievement. Our staff’s personal attention to the needs of each student enables a sense of confidence and engagement for everyone.

Academic courses in middle school include traditional core classes such as:

• Mathematics
• English Literature and Writing
• Science
• Social Studies
• Physical Education
• Foreign Language (optional)

In addition, each middle school student completes Computer Literacy & Study Skills. These courses teach essential skills that enhance student learning and performance during their middle, high school, and college matriculation, such as: time management, organization, comprehension and analysis, retention, and test-taking strategies.

STUDENTS SUPPORTING

During the secondary school years, students always learn to be independent with their own learning. In class, students learn the role of time management, being organized, and being creative at home. Teachers help create connections, encourage all students to ask questions, and are always there to support each student to ensure student progress both academically and socially.

Main course:

• Maths
• Language
• Science
• Social science

TECHNOLOGY

Technology is integrated into core courses and in science. Each student is provided with a laptop computer for accessing electronic materials. With this treasure of e-books, students have access to STEM projects on their own initiative alongside teacher guidance, interactive methods, hands-on labs... this help students are more inspired and passionate about learning.

Optional subjects

• Music
• Art
• Physical education
• Language

PREPARING FOR IMPORTANT EXAMS

To help students prepare for the important college entrance exam, all 8th graders take the PSAT together every year. This is a test to help students know their strengths and weaknesses so that they can spend more time preparing what is needed. Balboa's students, when admitted to high school, feel the improvement when taking the 10th grade PSAT.