Middle School FAQs

Middle School serves students in Grades 6-8, typically ages 11-14.

Students move between subject-specialist teachers rather than having one primary teacher—the grading system shifts from a standards-based to a percentage-based system with letter grades. Students take on greater responsibility for managing multiple classes, assignments, and their own schedules.

Classes have a maximum of 25 students, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention from their teacher.

Grades are calculated using a holistic system with three components: Major Assessments (50%), Minor Assessments (30%), and Affective Achievement (20%). The affective grade reflects personal development, including effort, responsibility, collaboration, and participation. It prepares students for high school, where grading focuses solely on academic performance.

From Grade 6 onwards, regular homework is assigned across subjects. Homework is designed to deepen understanding and develop independent work habits while balancing workload to ensure students have time for activities, family, and rest.

We follow an American curriculum aligned with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards, preparing students for high school-level work.

Core subjects include English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Students also take Arabic and Islamic Studies, Spanish, Qatar History, Art, Music, and Physical Education.

College and career guidance begins in the 8th grade. Students start working with our pastoral counselor to explore their strengths, interests, and future goals, while also learning about high school course planning.

Middle School students have access to pastoral counseling for emotional and social challenges, behavioral support for students requiring individualized plans, EAL services through Grade 8, and college and career guidance starting from Grade 8.

Co-curricular activities (CCAs) are optional and available to students in Grades 6-9 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoons, including sports, arts, clubs, and service projects. Students not participating in CCAs must be picked up at regular dismissal time (2:35 PM). 

By the time students reach Grade 8, they have developed strong study skills, practical time management abilities, and the independence necessary for high school. They receive guidance on course selection, introduction to college planning, and support in navigating the academic and social transition to Grade 9.