Middle School
Hero
Finding Her
Spark
Middle school is a game-changer—it’s where she’ll try new things, ask big questions, and discover just how capable she is.
These are the years that shape who she’ll become, and here she’ll be ready for what’s next.
We know that girls are relational and learn best when they feel valued, heard, and have a sense of belonging to our community. Kathryn Outlaw, Head of Middle School and Director of Student Support Services
A Girl's Day
Step into the shoes of a middle school girl at GPS and experience the magic of a day filled with discovery, support, and sisterhood.
![A young woman with long dark hair is standing in front of a whiteboard, writing or drawing something with a marker.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394144/gpsedu/gpojkccnmsrlr1bdqjhw/MStimeline-2.jpg","width":2200}])
7:50 AM
Help Class
Does she need a little extra practice with a tricky math problem or want feedback on her English essay? Our teachers are here bright and early every day to support each girl—no appointment needed!
![A classroom setting with students seated at desks, engaged in discussion or activities, and a teacher standing at the front of the room.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394144/gpsedu/vuzyowweyrfqs1estle7/MStimeline-6.jpg","width":2200}])
8:30 AM
Her Home Base
The day begins with her Advisory group—a cozy, supportive home base. Teachers take attendance, share announcements, and set the intention for the day ahead.
![four middle school students power small cars with balloons]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763921674/zpnrrbjjbegnizp4gh5s/balloon-poweredracecars.jpg","width":2200}])
8:45 AM
First Class of the Day!
Let’s go! With our rotating schedule, this could be anything from science to music. Middle-schoolers take music all three years since studies have shown its positive effects on social bonding, cognitive abilities, and language processing!
![A group of young female students engaged in a lively discussion in a colorfully decorated classroom, surrounded by various educational materials and decorations on the walls.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394144/gpsedu/j9upgxmd7loldkdg7s1c/MStimeline-3.jpg","width":2200}])
9:50 AM
Girl-Inspired Learning
Next up: maybe it’s math, history, English, or her world language class. At GPS, classes often connect with each other—for example, sixth-graders study Africa in Global Cultures, learn African movement in dance, and read a novel about African refugees in English.
![10:55 AM]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1753102334/gpsedu/ktuuiabxkty0qdw1ybzv/untitled-265.jpg","width":2200}])
10:55 AM
Get Moving!
In PE, she can try out new sports or learn to calm her body with stretching and yoga.
![Two young women are standing together, smiling and holding colorful drinks in a room with framed artwork and a beverage dispenser in the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394935/gpsedu/hmaao0fyhqlxtxyarq2b/MStimeline-1_1.jpg","width":2200}])
11:55 AM
Time to Refuel
The options at lunch are endless—maybe it’s taco bar day, or pasta, or something new from our daily menu. Pro tip: don’t skip dessert. Yes, we have an ice cream machine!
![A group of young women, dressed in various casual outfits, stand together on a grassy field in front of a brick building with a clear blue sky overhead.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394144/gpsedu/gzrmqixkncjumxtaot7b/MStimeline-5.jpg","width":2200}])
12:25 PM
Relax and Recharge
Does she need to catch up on classwork? Help Class is there for a little extra support. If she’s feeling confident in her studies, she can enjoy some well-earned free time outside with friends or just relax before her next class.
![two girls learning to knit]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763137260/gpsedu/ye96z2sabr7uke2rztzf/_L7A8023-min.jpg","width":2200}])
1 PM
Creative Expression
Time to flex those creative muscles! Art class might have her working with clay one day and pastels the next—there’s always something new to try.
![A group of young students, some with backpacks, sitting in a classroom setting, engaged in what appears to be a discussion or group activity.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394146/gpsedu/t3gr7gfvq7ihwvw1k3ol/MStimeline-10.jpg","width":2200}])
2:05 PM
Supporting the Whole Girl
We believe in supporting every facet of a girl’s being—including her emotional well-being. She might spend her last class learning about study habits, human development, or how to build healthy relationships in her social-emotional learning class.
![Two young women with long hair are embracing and smiling in what appears to be an indoor setting, with other people visible in the background.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763394145/gpsedu/hwo0siablgv3mxxwntra/MStimeline-8.jpg","width":2200}])
3:10 PM
Coming Together
GPS school days typically end with Chapel—a school-wide gathering with announcements, community moments, and a senior-delivered Chapel Talk that offers insight, humor, and inspiration.
![3:35 PM]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1753102383/gpsedu/lpogypqlgkviz0pnpgoj/untitled-722.jpg","width":2200}])
3:35 PM
After-School Enrichment Awaits
Time to dive into her passions! Whether she’s joining a cheer practice, trying something new in robotics, or auditioning for the GPS | McCallie middle school musical, after-school activities help girls grow, explore, and shine.
Sixth-Grade
Emphasis is placed on providing a positive and individualized academic and social experience for each girl.
Seventh-Grade
Girls build acuity in their academic skills while gaining perspective on the
socio-emotional aspects of development.
Eighth-Grade
The emphasis shifts to the application of acquired skills, student-driven
educational experiences, and readiness for upper school.
named a school of distinction
by the Association for Middle Level Education
In 2024, GPS became the first AMLE-recognized middle school in Tennessee and the first girls' school member.
The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) is the only international organization of its kind for middle school educators. With a community more than 35,000 members strong, AMLE is the go-to source for middle level education peer-reviewed research, best practice, and professional development. AMLE's Schools of Distinction program recognizes exemplary schools while supporting them through a process of strategic vision setting to help foster ongoing growth and success.
The GPS Ignite Program
Fueling Growth in Literacy, Leadership, and Executive Functioning Skills
The GPS Ignite Program is a dedicated support program for middle school girls with diagnosed dyslexia, language-based learning differences, or executive functioning challenges. Through personalized, evidence-based instruction, students build skills in reading, writing, organization, and self-advocacy. The program helps each girl gain confidence, overcome learning obstacles, and grow into a strong, independent learner and leader.
