Where Students Grow Into Who They Are Meant To Be
At Sumner Academy, Middle School is about more than academics. It's where students develop confidence, empathy, and the ability to think for themselves in a supportive, challenging environment.
Start Your JourneyMiddle School
A Place To Find Your Voice
Middle School (Grades 5–8) at Sumner Academy is a place where students grow into confident, independent learners who take ownership of their education. Classrooms are active and engaging, with students discussing ideas, asking questions, and learning to think for themselves.
Students are encouraged to advocate for their needs—seeking out teachers, asking for help, and taking responsibility for their progress. Through these daily experiences, they begin to understand how they learn best and how to take initiative in their work.
Communication is a key part of the Middle School experience. Students regularly share their thinking, present ideas, participate in performances, and engage in meaningful discussions, building confidence to speak clearly and thoughtfully in front of others.
Strong relationships with teachers and peers create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable taking risks, building resilience, and growing into capable, empathetic individuals.
Watching one of my children experience the full middle school program and seeing the growth from 5th to 8th grade was incredible. The organization skills improved each year and the ability to advocate for themselves is undeniable. As a high schooler my student has thrived and jumped in without hesitation and has no problem communicating with the teachers in a respectful manner. Getting to this point with our student has not been solely Sumner Academy's responsibilities but has been a partnership. Both parents were involved in getting our child ready for high school alongside school and I can't wait to see it again with my other student. Partnering with SA has been a great choice.
in the classroom
Time, Ownership, and Choice
Middle School at Sumner Academy gives students more ownership over their time and their learning.
A rotating schedule keeps days varied and engaging, while helping students learn how to manage their responsibilities across subjects.
- Spanish is a core content class, rotating with History, Science, English/Language Arts, and Mathematics.
- A key part of the day is Nest: a built-in time where students decide how to use their time. They might meet with a teacher for extra help, get ahead on assignments, collaborate with classmates, or spend time pursuing an area of interest.
- Our students can choose electives such as Advanced Art, Robotics, STEM, Sign Language, and more—allowing them to explore new interests and build skills beyond the core classroom.
- Your child will participate in Art, Music, Technology, and Physical Education.
Over time, your child will learn how to manage their workload, make thoughtful choices about their time, and take responsibility for their learning - life-long skills that prepare them for high school and beyond.
with teachers and peers
Guidance, Accountability, and Growth
Teachers in Middle School take the time to truly know each student while also helping them take greater responsibility for their learning.
- Students are expected to speak up, ask questions, and follow through on their work.
- Teachers provide support and guidance, but also hold students accountable by helping them develop the habits and responsibility they will need in high school.
Relationships remain a central part of the experience. Your child will build strong connections with their teachers and peers.
- By learning how to collaborate.
- Developing the confidence to speak up.
- Navigating challenges independently and together.
This balance of support and accountability helps students grow in confidence, independence, and maturity.
beyond the classroom
Experiences that Shape Who They Become
Learning at Sumner Academy extends beyond the classroom through field studies, projects, and real-world experiences that help students connect what they are learning to the world around them.
- Middle School students participate in overnight trips that build independence, strengthen relationships, and bring learning to life.
- These experiences include destinations such as Washington, D.C., the Outer Banks, and the mountains of North Carolina.
- International travel opportunities are also offered, including summer trips to places like Italy and London.
On campus, students continue to explore and create in spaces like the IDEA HUB, where they engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to think critically, solve problems, and bring their ideas to life.
- Design and build real projects, from robotics to fabrication, using tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and audio/visual equipment.
- Work through real challenges in a hands-on environment that blends creativity, engineering, and problem-solving.
These experiences—both in and out of the classroom—help students grow in confidence, independence, and connection with their peers.
after the bell
Where Passions Take Flight
Your child will have the opportunity to compete, perform, and take on leadership roles through a variety of after-school experiences.
- Athletics, including cross country, basketball, volleyball, tennis, cheer, and soccer. While these teams are competitive, the focus remains on building skills, teamwork, and commitment.
- The Sumner Academy Robotics Team, which competes at both the regional and state-level.
- Choir, Band, and Theatre performances.
- Opportunities for supporting their peers through Student Council
- Potential to mentor and coach younger Hawk athletes, allowing your child to take on leadership roles within the school community.
- Our after-school program provides a supportive and engaging environment where students can continue their day, spend time with friends, and stay on top of their work.
Whether on a team, in a performance, or through a club, the focus is on building skills, teamwork, and commitment, while embodying what it means to be a Sumner Academy Hawk.
Middle School
Prepared to Attend Any High School
By the end of Middle School, students leave confident, independent, and ready for what comes next. They can think through difficult challenges, manage their time, communicate clearly, and take ownership of their learning.