Middle School

Gaining Confidence

Middle School at CBA is explorative and grounding. During early adolescence, the brain is completing a pruning and rebuilding process. We capitalize on this incredible period of brain development with new and immersive experiences. Projects take on a greater scope as students apply skills and express unique ideas. Middle schoolers at CBA also become better at time management and self-directed learning.

Socially, students are eager to find their place among peers. Council Houses connect students through a shared sense of purpose, pride, and identity. We place all middle school students into one of six council houses: Tsiya, Awohali, Kawi, Yona, Tsula, and Wadulisi. Each house has its own culture and is ready to welcome new students. Council Houses meet weekly and complete student-directed service projects. Students build relationships and directly impact their community.

As they grow through Middle School, students become more confident in applying their skills. After years of experience with large projects, they are ready to dive deeper into expertise. They are also more confident in who they are and what they can contribute to the world. Our middle school graduates aren’t afraid to try new things, make mistakes, or take the lead.

Hands-on Experience

National History Day

At CBA, middle schoolers bring history to life. They spend months exploring primary sources and then create papers, exhibits, performances, and documentaries. Their hard work pays off—students earn top honors year after year. This spring, 12 advanced to Nationals. Along the way, they grow in confidence, curiosity, and skill, learning to tell stories that shape how we see the world today.

Operation Montserrat

6th and 7th-grade students simulated an emergency response to a volcanic eruption and hurricane on the island of Montserrat. Students worked with a live video facilitator to interpret real-time data and make evacuation decisions. They learned to collaborate under pressure and solve real-world problems using math and earth science. The facilitator complemented one group by saying they were in the top three groups she’s worked with in fourteen years.

Council Houses

It’s time for the Council House sorting ceremony, where we welcome our newest council house members! This is what it looks like to be enthusiastically welcomed by your new council house.

Strings

Participating in strings not only offers a beautiful way for students to be expressive, it also builds the kinds of skills and habits to help students succeed in other areas of life: practice, collaboration, and performance.