ACADEMICS >
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Engaged and Capable Citizens
The goals of the PUCS Middle School are to encourage students to develop:
- A Christian perspective that integrates Biblical principles of redemption and reconciliation found only in Christ.
- A broad knowledge of science and social studies content with strong conceptual links between topics.
- A depth of skills in each of seven skill areas — personal and social development, physical development, language and literacy, mathematics, science, social studies and Spanish — that can be effectively applied in a variety of contexts.
Integrated Curriculum
The Middle School students experience two integrated courses, one social science and one science. Each course lasts a full year and aims at synthesizing and formalizing the concepts learned during elementary school. Math, English grammar and vocabulary, Spanish, physical education, study skills, work management strategies, and resource utilization are emphasized throughout the curriculum. Teachers also relate course content to Biblical themes and Biblical events, as well as the history of Christianity and Christian mission.
Math: A three-year track culminating with Algebra 1.
Language Arts and History: A three-year cycle rotating between the ancient, medieval, and modern worlds.
Science: A three-year cycle rotating between life science (biology), physical science (chemistry and physics), and earth science (geology and astronomy).
Spanish: Lessons in language, literacy, and the arts are integrated into these courses. We focus on listening, speaking, reading and writing, as well as broad examination of styles of literature, music, visual arts, and the performing arts.
Creating 813 South Avenue
In 2018, PUCS acquired the former Boys and Girls Club building at 813 South Avenue in Wilkinsburg. Throughout the 2018-2019 school year, our middle school students designed and implemented major designs and functionality for the new building. This exercise allowed the students to take ownership of the new space and gave them an opportunity to build organizational and leadership skills.