Middle School at NLA

6th – 8th Grade

Two Middle School girls at NLA pose together and smile at the camera while standing outside by the pond.

The middle school years are a pivotal season of growth, discovery, and transformation. As students take on greater academic challenges, navigate changing relationships, and explore new interests, they not only deepen their faith but also develop the confidence, character, and skills needed for high school and beyond. At NLA, students are surrounded by a supportive Christ-centered community of teachers and peers who encourage their academic, social, and spiritual growth every step of the way.

Middle School at NLA helps students thrive through individualized support, meaningful experiences, and a Christ-centered community.

Have questions about the NLA Middle School experience?

Connect with the NLA Admissions Team

Equipping Students for Life

At NLA, we help middle school students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Through meaningful opportunities to lead, serve, and grow, middle school students develop strong character, deepen their faith, and build the confidence to make a positive impact on the world.

develop whole child icon
Science teacher at New Life Academy looks through a microscope as a middle school student watches and learns.

Intentional Teachers

Our teachers build confidence in students by showing them that they are valued as individuals. They not only teach but also mentor — guiding students through academic, social, and spiritual challenges as needed.

Community Groups

Students are assigned a same-gender, same-grade small group with a dedicated advisor. Groups meet weekly for relationship-building and life skills training. Students explore different topics in a safe environment that helps prepare them for the next stage of life and introduces them to new interests.

Two middle school girls on a swing outside hold their hands together to form a heart and smile at the camera.
Three middle school students laughing in the hall with their backpacks on as they head to class.

Character Emphasis

Weekly chapels, Bible classes, and character education help students make wise decisions and become good citizens — not only of their school community but also of God’s kingdom.

Learning That Inspires Creativity

At New Life Academy, we encourage students to explore new ideas, think critically, and use creativity to solve problems. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, or through elective opportunities, students are inspired to pursue their passions and discover innovative ways to grow.

Middle School student in the Innovation Center working on building a game out of cardboard.
An ipad displaying an admissions booklet, providing easy access to information and resources

Your middle schooler’s environment matters.

Learn how NLA helps students navigate these pivotal years with confidence, character, and faith.

Download Parent Info Packet

“What I love about New Life Academy is the community and strong relationships you are able to build here. I’ve met so many great friends, and the teachers truly care about each student beyond just our assignments.

MERCY, CLASS OF ’27

Middle School Bible teacher helps student on their computer during class as students in the background work on their assignments.

Making Faith Their Own

electives icon

Curiosity and questioning are a natural part of the middle school years, creating opportunities for students to deepen their understanding, strengthen their faith, and discover who they are. Within a supportive environment, students are encouraged to explore their beliefs, ask meaningful questions, and learn to live out their faith with confidence.

Electives & Clubs

electives icon

Middle school students have opportunities to explore a variety of interests through theater, STEAM, music, robotics, clubs, student leadership, outdoor activities, and more. These opportunities help them build skills, discover talents, and form lasting friendships through shared passions.

Christ-Centered Athletics

athletics icon

With more than 40 teams across 13 sports, middle school students have opportunities to develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance through competition. Whether they win or lose, athletes learn to honor Christ in the way they play, compete, and lead. No-cut teams provide a place for students to build confidence and grit, while advanced athletes may have opportunities to compete at the high school level.

A Commitment to Student Safety

student safety icon

Student safety is a top priority. Our secure campus and welcoming environment give parents peace of mind, while clear expectations, consistent boundaries, and trusted adults create a sense of social and emotional safety for middle school students. In this structure of care and support, students gain the confidence to grow and thrive.

HIGH SCHOOL PREP

Preparing for What’s Ahead

At NLA, students are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning and growth. By balancing support with independence, we help them build the confidence, responsibility, and resilience needed for high school and beyond.

Three Middle School students in New Life Academy sweatshirts smile at the camera outside with fall grass and trees behind them.

Growing Responsibility

Middle school is a bridge between the structure of elementary and the independence of high school. Students practice navigating a rotating block schedule, moving between classes, and managing their own time. They build habits like organization, study skills, and personal responsibility that prepare them for the next stage of their academic journey.

A group of middle school boys stands out by the New Life pond holding fishing poles and smiling at the camera.

Service and Discovery

Students get to learn by stepping outside the classroom. Project Serve and May Term excursions, including grade-level retreats, give them opportunities to serve, explore new places, and grow in community. These experiences shape their perspective, strengthen resilience, and deepen gratitude for God’s work in the world.

Students practicing in Band

Choice & Voice

Students can tailor their education to their unique interests through involvement in course selection, taking exciting electives, and joining clubs, arts, and athletics.

A Second Home

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAMPUS SAFETY & BELONGING

A strong sense of belonging starts with a safe and supportive environment. At NLA, our secure campus includes multiple layers of protection designed to ensure students remain safe and cared for throughout the day. Exterior doors remain locked during school hours; visitors check in at the front desk; and security cameras and interior safety doors provide additional layers of protection.

Whether gathering in welcoming common areas, visiting the coffee shop, or enjoying à la carte snack options, students have daily opportunities to connect with teachers, staff, and peers, build friendships, and strengthen community. With all grades on one campus, middle schoolers can also serve as role models to younger students and gain a glimpse of what lies ahead in Upper School.

Exterior view of the New Life Academy building with a prominent cross on the façade, surrounded by green trees, landscaping rocks, and a well‑kept lawn under a clear sky.

See for Yourself!

Experience first-hand why families choose NLA.

Schedule a Campus Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

View all FAQs
  • How does the school support students moving from elementary to middle school?
    Middle SchoolStudent Life

    New Life Academy takes the transition from Lower School to Middle School seriously, offering intentional support to help students navigate this exciting change. In 5th grade, students begin preparing for the shift by taking some elective classes with students in other grades, helping them build connections across the school before they make the full transition. The structure of Middle School — with individual teachers for each subject, a locker, and a daily schedule — is introduced gradually. New Middle School students also benefit from our caring community culture and small class sizes, which ensure teachers can know and support each student personally. Community groups, retreats like Camp Forest Springs, and mentoring relationships help students feel grounded in faith and friendship as they grow. Learn more about our Middle School program.

  • What leadership opportunities can middle school students participate in?
    Middle SchoolStudent Life

    At New Life Academy, leadership and character development are woven into every stage of a student’s education.

    Middle School: Students build leadership through community groups, student council, service projects like Project Serve Day, and retreats that challenge them to grow in faith and relationships.

    Across all grades, our teachers and campus pastor model and mentor Christ-like character, helping every student discover their God-given strengths and lead with purpose. Learn more about our Middle School and faith and service.

  • Do middle schoolers move between classes, and if so, how is that managed?
    Middle SchoolStudent Life

    Yes, Middle School students at New Life Academy move between classes just like a traditional middle or high school experience. Each student has their own locker and follows a structured daily schedule that includes time to transition between subjects and teachers. This setup helps students build independence, organizational skills, and time management — important skills for high school and beyond. The NLA Middle School campus is designed to make transitions smooth and manageable, and students quickly settle into the routine. Teachers and staff are present in the hallways during passing periods to provide support and maintain a welcoming, orderly environment. Learn more about our Middle School program.

  • How do you help students transition from elementary to middle school?
    Middle SchoolStudent Life

    New Life Academy takes the transition from Lower School to Middle School seriously, offering intentional support to help students navigate this exciting change. In 5th grade, students begin preparing for the shift by taking some elective classes with students in other grades, helping them build connections across the school before they make the full transition. The structure of Middle School — with individual teachers for each subject, a locker, and a daily schedule — is introduced gradually. New Middle School students also benefit from our caring community culture and small class sizes, which ensure teachers can know and support each student personally. Community groups, retreats like Camp Forest Springs, and mentoring relationships help students feel grounded in faith and friendship as they grow. Learn more about our Middle School program.

  • How do you partner with parents during the middle school years?
    Middle SchoolStudent Life

    Parents find it easy and encouraged to communicate with teachers and school leadership at every stage. We partner closely with families through daily take-home folders, weekly emails, and the Schoology platform for updates and assignments. Small class sizes and caring teachers mean your child is known personally, and teachers often attend events to connect beyond the classroom. Families also engage in respectful, open dialogue with staff, fostering trust and support. This partnership helps your child thrive academically, socially, and spiritually from Early Education through Upper School.

    Learn more about our Parent Partnership and how we build strong communication.

  • How do you help prepare students for the social and emotional challenges of adolescence?
    Middle SchoolStudent Support

    At every stage, New Life Academy supports student health and wellness through dedicated Counseling Services that promote mental health, social skills, and emotional wellbeing. Our Lower School has intervention specialists who collaborate with teachers to meet academic and personal needs. Physical health is encouraged through regular PE classes, daily outdoor recess, and electives like team sports and outdoor education. Students can also participate in competitive sports teams, a weight lifting team, and the Junior Eagles program. Middle School students take health classes focused on physical, emotional, and relational wellbeing.

    In Middle School specifically, community groups led by faculty provide a consistent, safe space for students to process the social and emotional challenges of adolescence alongside trusted mentors and peers. Retreats like Camp Forest Springs also create meaningful opportunities for students to grow in faith and build lasting friendships during this important season