Adolescence is a period of transition and of many physical, emotional and social changes as the older child matures into a young adult.  It is during this critical period of development that the Nativity student makes the most significant progress in acquiring the tools necessary to participate effectively in society.

Students in grades 6 through 8 continue their academically challenging coursework in the Core Curriculum, attending departmentalized classes in English, social studies, and science.  Ability grouping is conducted in reading.  Students who have demonstrated proficiency in reading may advance to advanced reading which explores an anthology of classic literature.  Conversely, if a student requires continued assistance in the mastery of a particular level of reading skill, he or she has the opportunity in the middle school to accomplish this goal.

Good study and work habits, previously developed in the earlier years at Nativity, are essential in order to successfully execute their homework assignments.

Computer instruction is provided in our large computer lab where students use the keyboarding skills learned in the elementary school to assist and complement work being done in other areas of the classroom.  Students may use the computer for its work processing capabilities toward the development of strong creative writing and composition construction skills.  Internet databases are tapped for their wealth of educational and scientific resources.

Science plays a very important role in the Core Curriculum, and the program benefits from having a separate science lab where daily hands-on experiments can be conducted.  Critical thinking and problem solving skills are sharpened as the student practices advanced principles and methods of scientific observation and experimentation.  Special highlights of the middle school years are the Outdoor Science Education Program in the 6^th grade, and the Yosemite Science Institute week in the 8^th grade.

 The students in the middle school are seen as particularly important role models for their younger schoolmates, beginning at the Kindergarten level where the 7^th grade “buddies” escort their younger charges to Nativity Church and sit with them during liturgy services.  The “upper classmen” are expected to exemplify respect and courtesy in all their interactions and behaviors.

Leadership skills are developed in the Student Council, which is open to all middle school students.  Here the goal is to promote school spirit, to be a forum for the student body, and to foster service to the school and the community.

Service to the community is taken a step further by the Outreach Program for 7^th and 8^th grades.  Students, parents, or teachers volunteer their time once or twice per month in the local community in an expression of their faith and to live the gospel message in service of others in need.

As a testament to the dedication of the teachers and the solid work of the students 98% of all 8^th graders who applied to Catholic high schools in the area were accepted to the school of their choice.  This is a tremendous accomplishment because entrance at all Catholic high schools is extremely competitive.

We are extremely proud of the accomplishments that all of our 8^th grade scholars have developed and achieved during their formative years at Nativity School.  Nativity has provided them with a singularly strong, solid foundation which, in turn, endows the graduate with the confidence and self-esteem that is important in achieving all future goals and aspirations.  It is our hope that they take with them a morally and spiritually bountiful character that will continue to be a credit to themselves, their families and to society.