Academics

Middle School

Meeting in the Middle

Middle school is a time of extraordinary growth, and the seeds planted during these years shape the trajectory of a girl’s life. At GPS, middle school is a time when a girl discovers her talents and passions, finds her voice, and fosters deep connections with adults and peers. She also develops confidence as she is challenged in age-appropriate ways while surrounded by teachers, coaches, and counselors deeply committed to her success. 
We are so glad that you are considering GPS for your daughter.
Our school was founded on the educational principles that continue to guide us today—all that we do begins and ends with what is best for girls. When you enter the GPS middle school, you will find a bustling and joyful energy full of future scientists, artists, engineers, and writers as they dive deeper into their learning.  
From the classroom to the stage to the athletic fields, our program is designed just for girls. Learning in middle school balances time-honored traditions and strategies that are tailored to each girl as she finds and develops her voice and passions. Our girls are known, loved, and nurtured in their journey to self-discovery while being empowered to recognize that they can do anything they set their minds to.  
There is no other time in a girl’s life when she changes so rapidly as in her middle school years. Through it all, we know that the most important thing for her is to build relationships with teachers invested in her success and have fun with the girls who will be her sisters for life. We hope that as you learn more about our school community, you will be encouraged to picture your daughter’s future at GPS. We know that this is the best school for her, and we feel certain that you will see it, too.

Kathryn Outlaw
Head of Middle School and Director of Student Support Services

Middle School Skills and Support Curriculum

Students in middle school at GPS experience a collaborative environment where learning is all-encompassing. Just as important as her mastery of academic disciplines, a girl needs to acquire skills that will equip her for personal growth and success outside of school. Our approach addresses girls’ intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development. Relying on the latest research and more than a century of experience, we ensure each GPS student is well-prepared for her next steps—upper school, college, and life.

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  • + Sixth-Grade

    Bruiser Basics
    This course lays the foundation for the health and wellness curriculum by introducing skills essential for being a successful GPS student. Topics include study skills, organization, self-awareness, boundaries with peers, personal hygiene, and how girls’ brains and bodies work. Students learn how to stay healthy, manage stress and anxiety, communicate effectively with peers and teachers, resolve conflict with others, use social media and technology appropriately, and maintain self-esteem.

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  • + Seventh-Grade

    Human Growth and Development
    In this course, students learn about brain and body development, as well as human reproduction. Through discussion, students explore adolescent emotions, practice resolving conflict, and identify choices that nurture our bodies and brains through nutrition education and proper hygiene practices. Objectives include self-care, self-esteem, boundary setting, and finding balance. Emphasis is placed on self in the context of relationships.

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  • + Eighth Grade

    Health and Wellness
    Students spend the year learning about wellness strategies related to their overall physical, social, and emotional growth. The girls learn to make informed decisions based upon factual information while covering a variety of topics such as nutrition, social media use, and positive relationships that are important to young girls as they progress through their teenage years. This class gives girls the tools they need to make sound, healthy decisions as they encounter new freedoms and experiences. 

BROWSE THE MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

After-School Enrichment

As part of our commitment to developing the whole girl and deepening our community connections, all students participate in after-school enrichment activities. Opportunities present differing levels of time commitment and include everything from homework help to beginner guitar and songwriting, pickleball, self defense, Girls Outdoor Leadership Education, and more.

Discover opportunities for girls at GPS.



Girls Preparatory School

PHONE (423) 634-7600    HOURS M-F 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.