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.

Middle school is a new, exciting experience for families. You know these years will bring great opportunities for your child, but you may be a little apprehensive about all the changes coming your way. Whether you’re thinking about challenging academics, a more complex social scene, or finding the right balance between schoolwork and extracurricular activities, this is a season of tremendous growth.

Middle School at New Life Academy is designed to help your student thrive through individual attention, meaningful activities, and a positive Christ-centered community.

We invite you to experience our middle school firsthand!

Schedule a tour today.

Equipping Students for Life

At New Life Academy, we want to see middle schoolers do more than succeed in the classroom. We want them to thrive in every area of life. As students navigate this pivotal season of identity formation, character development, and spiritual growth, we provide opportunities that help them become confident, Christ-centered young men and women who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

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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.

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

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These years are filled with curiosity and questioning, and that’s a good thing. Students are supported as they navigate their faith journey. With the right balance of freedom and guidance, they are encouraged to explore what they believe and how to live it out with confidence.

Electives & Clubs

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Theater, STEAM, outdoor activities, music, or rFrom theater and music to robotics, clubs, and student leadership, New Life Academy offers many ways for students to explore their interests. These opportunities help them build skills, discover talents, and form lasting friendships through shared passions.

Christ-Centered Athletics

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With over 40 teams across 13 sports, students grow in teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Win or lose, they learn to glorify Christ through healthy competition. Middle school athletes can join no-cut teams, build grit, and, for those ready to take the next step, even compete on high school teams

A Commitment to Student Safety

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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. In this structure of care and support, students gain the confidence to grow and thrive.

HIGH SCHOOL PREP

Preparing for what’s ahead

Middle school students are keenly aware of all that’s ahead in high school and college. We make preparing for these critical years less overwhelming by striking a balance between supporting students and allowing them space to become more independent.

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 ABOUT CAMPUS SAFETY

Middle school students need to feel a sense of belonging, safety, and community. Our campus is set up to make students feel at home and provides daily opportunities to connect with teachers, staff, and other students. Middle schoolers love our coffee shop, a la carte snack options, and common areas designed for quality time. With all grades on one campus, they get to serve as role models to younger students and get a preview of what’s 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!

See first-hand why families choose New Life Academy for their middle schoolers.

Schedule a Tour
Download a Packet

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