Grades 5-8
Upper school is the culmination of the eleven-year process students experience at CEA. Our upper school is uniquely designed to meet the challenges that come with the transition into the early teen years. Students are provided the necessary continuity, structure, and reassurance required for a successful shift from childhood to adolescence. A rigorous academic curriculum is accompanied by an emphasis on developing organizational skills, time management, study skills, adaptability, and social skills, preparing students for success in future academic careers and life endeavors.
Students learn to think deeply as they cultivate a continued thirst for knowledge and further develop the moral compass that will guide them through life. Critical thinking, problem solving, resourcefulness, discourse, creativity, and development of character and passion are at the heart of all classes. Students have continuous opportunities to build on their strengths and contribute to their school community.
During these late elementary and middle school years, students continue to develop their linguistic abilities in both English and Spanish. Students take weekly Spanish, music, visual arts, dance, fitness, and P.E. classes.
Upper School students participate in a 1:1 iPad program that fosters digital literacy, digital citizenship, problem solving, and creativity in the virtual space. Across the curriculum Upper School students naturally take a more proactive role in their education and are empowered to be self-directed and collaborative learners.
Fifth grade students participate in the Junior Mastery Program. Sixth through eighth grade students transition to the Senior Mastery Program, which allows students to allow students to widen their horizons and learning abilities, and develop a commitment to an area of study. By the time students reach the eighth grade, they have the opportunity to exercise leadership in their respective programs.
In Upper School, students may work towards induction into Honor Societies, including:
- National Junior Honor Society
- Tri-M Music Honor Society
- National Honor Society for Dance Arts
- Junior International Thespian Society
- National Junior Art Honor Society
