Grades 6-8
Middle School at The Nativity School
Our middle school program is designed to help students build independence, responsibility, and strong academic habits. As they take ownership of their learning, they strengthen organization, study skills, and discipline within a faith-centered environment rooted in respect, reverence, and responsibility. Through more rigorous academics and thoughtful reflection on their identity and faith, students develop the confidence, character, and moral foundation needed to become compassionate leaders and engaged members of their communities.
Middle School Programming
Student Leadership Council
At The Nativity School, we are committed to developing confident, faith-filled student leaders. Our Student Leadership Council provides opportunities for students to grow in responsibility, service, and collaboration while making a meaningful impact on school life. Students are encouraged to plan social activities, lead school events, promote service initiatives, and deepen their faith while serving their classmates and school community. This program fosters leadership skills, initiative, and a strong sense of responsibility rooted in Christian values.
Yearbook
Middle school students have the opportunity to participate in creating the school’s annual yearbook, gaining hands-on experience in photography, writing, design, and project management. Students collaborate to capture school events, develop layouts, write content, and produce a lasting record of the school year, building creativity, teamwork, and organizational skills.
STEM Education
Students engage in hands-on STEM learning experiences that encourage curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving. With a focus on environmental stewardship and campus green initiatives, students explore scientific concepts through real-world applications that promote responsibility for caring for God’s creation and preparing for the future.
Experiential Learning
At The Nativity School, our middle school students extend their learning beyond the classroom through meaningful experiential opportunities both in San Diego and across the country. These immersive experiences allow students to apply what they learn in real-world settings while building confidence, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
6th Grade Students
Sixth grade students spend a week at AstroCamp in the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. During this hands-on science experience, students explore concepts related to space, astronomy, and scientific discovery through interactive labs, outdoor exploration, and collaborative problem-solving.
7th Grade Students
In seventh grade, students travel to Catalina Island for a multi-day marine science program. Through activities such as snorkeling, tidepool exploration, and guided night hikes to identify constellations, students gain a deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems while learning about environmental stewardship and conservation.
7th and 8th Grade Students
Seventh and eighth grade students also bring their study of U.S. history to life through a week-long trip to Washington, D.C.. Visiting many of the nation’s most significant historical landmarks and museums, students experience firsthand the people, places, and events that have shaped our country—connecting their classroom studies with the living story of our nation.
Together, these experiences foster independence, strengthen friendships, and create lasting memories while deepening students’ understanding of science, history, and their responsibility as global citizens.
Middle School Community
Faith in Action
At The Nativity School, our Faith in Action program nurtures students’ growth in faith, character, and service, guiding them to become committed Christians and responsible citizens. Rooted in Catholic values, the program integrates faith formation with social-emotional learning through a robust curriculum centered on monthly virtues. Students engage in meaningful lessons and experiences that help them live the Gospel, practice Christian virtues, demonstrate respect for others, and develop a spirit of service and environmental stewardship.
Community Service
Service to others is a central part of our Faith in Action formation. Students learn to recognize their God-given gifts and use them to serve those in need, fostering compassion, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to helping others. Throughout the year, students participate in service projects supporting local nonprofit organizations and community initiatives. Middle school students further develop leadership and responsibility by completing required service hours each trimester and may also participate in a Volunteer Service Award program. Through these experiences, students grow in empathy, faith, and a deep sense of responsibility for their community and the world.