Middle School

The Power of Discovery

The Middle School years are a time of great transition. This crucial period of education is all about fostering connections and cultivating creative and critical thinking. At OES, we build a learning environment where students can take risks, explore new opportunities, and feel supported by the community.

Learning how to learn.

Our inquiry-driven curriculum guides students to craft thoughtful questions, respond constructively to setbacks, and share what they have learned with the community in every subject from history to science.

Engaging the world around us.

Our Middle School program is designed to help students apply their knowledge to the wider world. Through our grade-level advisory program, sixth graders focus on community building, starting the year with a class trip that offers a great opportunity to connect and make new friends. And with experiential class trips, such as learning outdoor skills at Mt. St. Helens and participating in river rafting at the end of eighth grade, they get hands-on experience in unique, real-world situations.

Strong hearts. Strong minds.

We place a significant emphasis on student wellness and mindfulness. Through programs such as advisory, morning gatherings, health and wellness classes, and student support programs, teachers connect with students to offer them academic, social, and emotional support.