As we continue to prepare for the transition of 6th grade to a middle school model in the 2025–2026 school year, I want to share more updates about this exciting next step for our students and our school. After extensive planning with one of the nation’s leading Christian school consulting groups, other Christian schools, and thorough local market research, we’ve determined this transition will greatly benefit our students academically, socially, and spiritually.
Along with this shift comes an even greater and more intentional effort to meet the unique needs of 6th graders socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. Shifting our 6th graders from elementary school programming to middle school programming allows us to focus heavily on developing a Christ-centered community and courageous leaders during these critical years of adolescence.
I’m sure you have lots of questions; please take a minute to read through these FAQ’s:
Will 6th grade move to the WAC?
At this time, 6th grade will continue to meet in their own hallway in the elementary school. Many of you know that we’ve added a 4th section of 6th grade in recent years to make room for new students and better prepare them for 7th and 8th grade. Four sections give 6th graders the opportunity to travel to different teachers and classrooms. It is important to note that we purposely “ease” students into changing classes and using a locker. It’s just another step in the progression to increase achievement and build capacity in executive functioning, social skills, and taking on responsibility. Although core academic classes will remain in the existing 6th grade wing at this time, we will continue to utilize other parts of campus for our 6th graders, including the opportunity to eat lunch in the WAC once a week.
Will the 6th-grade program change academically?
The rigorous academic standards that Timothy is known for will remain. Teachers will continue to collaborate on instructional planning and offer differentiated instruction through MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), co-taught classes, and individualized academic programs. These efforts ensure that every student is challenged and supported to reach their full potential. There will be some new opportunities for 6th graders, though, including one trimester of an elective. All 6th graders will have the same PE time twice a week allowing for more cross class groupings and gender-specific PE classes.
What extracurricular activities are available to 6th graders?
Currently, 6th graders have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular opportunities. They can try out for sports teams, participate in the school play and musical, join clubs like chess or robotics, and take on leadership roles such as field day captains and preschool helpers. These activities provide a chance to explore and nurture their God-given gifts and talents. You can find a full list of activities below.
Will 6th graders be able to participate in middle school social events and WyldLife?
It is also our intention to include 6th graders in some middle school events, including Wyldlife. Given the amount of additional students that will attend those events we are working on securing additional staff to help at events.
Will 6th graders attend middle school chapel?
Yes. We realize 6th graders are at a critical stage of adolescence and could benefit by hearing more relevant and age-appropriate teaching and worship experiences by attending middle school chapel.
Why was tuition raised?
Here at Timothy Christian Schools, starting 6th grade unlocks a host of new opportunities and adventures – some of the opportunities will be new to our programming, while others have been a part of our programming for some time. Because of this, we’ve always committed more funding and resources per pupil in 6th grade than in elementary school. The increased tuition rate better reflects what it costs to educate each child and allows us the opportunity to introduce new initiatives along the way (such as one trimester of an elective). Timothy continues to maintain tuition rates that remain lower than similar-sized private middle schools.
Plenty more to come as our planning continues! But for now, I wanted to provide you with this additional information. God has a mighty purpose for your child, and we are honored to partner with you on the journey.
Sincerely,
Justin Horne
PS-8th Grade Principal
6th Grade Curricular | Co-Curricular | Extracurricular
Girls Cross Country
Boys Cross Country
Girls Soccer
Boys Soccer
Girls Basketball
Boys Basketball
Girls Track & Field
Boys Track & Field
Lacrosse Club
Band/Orchestra/Choir
Chess Club
Robotics
Middle School Play
Middle School Musical
NEW: Crew Groups
NEW: Team Building retreat
NEW: Trimester Elective
NEW: Middle School Chapel
NEW: Middle School Social Events
NEW: Wyldlife
NEW: 6th grade Poms
NEW: Lunch in the WAC
