At Notre Dame, middle school students are encouraged to think critically, take on new challenges, and grow in independence as they explore Religion, English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
With Honors and On-Track options in ELA and Math, students learn at a pace that builds both confidence and curiosity. Grade 8 Honors Math students may earn high school credit in Algebra I, and all students have the opportunity to earn credit in Spanish I, French I or a half credit in Performing Arts, giving them a strong start for high school.
Religion
Our Middle School religious education program invites students into a deeper relationship with God through active participation in the life and ministry of the Church. Rooted in the tradition of the Sisters of Notre Dame and guided by the Christ Our Life series, the program builds upon foundations established in earlier grades and nurtures spiritual growth alongside academic development. Students engage with Catholic truths, Scripture, prayer, Church history, and social justice, while service opportunities, journaling, and reflection encourage them to live out their faith with compassion and purpose.
English Language Arts
Middle School English Language Arts (ELA), guided by Ohio’s Learning Standards, helps students strengthen their reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language skills. Students are placed in either Honors or On-Track ELA based on readiness, allowing for appropriate pacing and depth of instruction. Across all levels, students engage with a variety of literature and informational texts, developing strategies to annotate, interpret, and comprehend increasingly complex material. They learn to analyze themes, support their thinking with text evidence, and express ideas clearly through narrative, argumentative, and informative writing. Vocabulary development, grammar, research, and speaking skills are also emphasized, preparing students to be critical thinkers and effective communicators for high school and beyond.
Math
Students engage in interactive and collaborative math learning through the College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM) program. Beginning in 6th grade, students are placed in either On-Track or Honors Math based on readiness, allowing them to progress at a pace that supports their individual growth. The curriculum, which includes Core Connections courses and Algebra I for honors students, builds strong problem-solving and conceptual understanding skills. Lessons emphasize teamwork, inquiry, and real-world application to prepare students for future academic success. Additionally, students use DreamBox, a personalized online program that reinforces key math concepts both at school and at home.
Science
The science program is rooted in scientific inquiry and hands-on exploration, utilizing the comprehensive Science Fusion curriculum. Students actively engage in experiments, problem-solving, and model design to develop critical thinking and a true scientific mindset. The integrated curriculum covers Life, Physical, and Earth and Space Sciences, allowing skills to build and deepen across grades 6–8. Sixth and seventh graders also participate in the annual Science Fair, showcasing their curiosity and investigative skills. Learning comes to life in our new, state-of-the-art science lab that fosters collaboration, experimentation, and discovery.
Social Studies
Our Social Studies program inspires curiosity and helps students understand how people, ideas, and events have shaped our world. Through engaging lessons on ancient civilizations, world history, and early American history, students explore how cultures and governments developed over time. Inquiry-based learning, hands-on projects, and discussions encourage critical thinking and connections between past and present—including a fun 6th-grade Shark Tank-style economics project. Eighth graders participate in Ohio History Day, showcasing their research and presentation skills. Memorable field experiences, like trips to Cleveland and Washington, D.C., bring history to life and deepen students’ understanding of what they learn in class.