The years between Lower School and Upper School define a time of extraordinary change in students. At Dunham, the Middle School offers educational programs and activities designed to foster intellectual growth and encourage independence, while providing the spiritual roadmap necessary to successfully negotiate that maze called adolescence. Each year in Middle School is a unique opportunity to educate students who are becoming secure in themselves – academically, spiritually, physically and emotionally – and confident about their futures.

At each grade level in Middle School, students work with a seasoned team of core subject teachers. Students also attend enrichment classes in a wide range of subjects: Bible, technology, art, music, library, band, foreign languages and physical education. Middle school students also are encouraged to participate in sports, with special emphasis on the concept of teamwork. 

Small class sizes in each grade promote a greater sense of belonging. Middle school students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. All these components work together to help Middle School students discover who they are and to be comfortable with that knowledge.

The Middle School seeks to offer students a secure environment, with teachers who are truly in tune with what’s happening in their students’ lives. Grade level teams meet regularly to review curriculum progress and to brainstorm ways to integrate the various disciplines. Teachers also work together to develop problem-solving strategies for students experiencing academic or social difficulties.