At Northshore Christian Academy (NCA), we focus on growing the next generation of leaders and thinkers. We aim to give middle school students a balanced education, helping them excel in school while also building strong character, leadership skills, and faith.
Our programs in STEM, fine arts, spiritual education, and many clubs and activities prepare students to meet future challenges with confidence and resilience. Below, we discuss how our preparatory middle school approach helps students grow and succeed in all areas of life.
A Thriving Middle School STEM Program
At Northshore Christian Academy (NCA), we believe that a robust STEM education is crucial in preparing middle school students for the challenges of the future. Our STEM program is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, equipping students with the skills they need to excel in high school, college, and beyond.
Advanced Math Courses
NCA offers advanced math tracks to cater to the varying proficiency levels of our students. Many of our students graduate having completed high school-level courses in algebra and geometry, which enables them to go farther as they prepare to enter higher education.
MIDDLE SCHOOL Science Courses
Our middle school science program covers general science and the basics of chemistry, earth science, geology, and life science. 7th and 8th graders have the opportunity to take pre-AP physics as an elective course. We teach students to analyze science concepts using a biblical worldview.
Technology
We recognize the importance of early exposure to technology. We offer a computer coding course where students start with drag-and-drop coding interfaces and progress to more complex programming languages such as JavaScript. Our students develop logical reasoning and problem-solving skills that are essential in today's technology-driven world.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Beyond the classroom, NCA offers a range of extracurricular STEM activities. Our robotics club, for instance, allows students to collaborate on designing and programming robots for competitions, fostering teamwork and technical skills. We also host science fairs and participate in regional STEM competitions, providing students with platforms to showcase their innovations and solutions to complex problems.
Character and Leadership Skills Development
In our middle school, education extends beyond academic excellence. Developing character and leadership skills is a fundamental part of NCA’s mission. We aim to help students grow into responsible, compassionate, and influential members of society.
Character Development Through a Biblical Worldview
NCA’s character education is deeply rooted in a Biblical worldview. Our curriculum and activities are designed to instill Christian values and principles in our students.
From daily Bible studies to weekly chapel services, students learn about the importance of integrity, kindness, humility, and perseverance. These values are not only taught but are also modeled by our dedicated faculty, creating an environment where students can see and practice what they learn.
Leadership Opportunities
We provide numerous opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills. Students have many opportunities to practice acting as leaders in the classroom. They can also participate in the Student Leadership Council or take our speech and debate course to develop their communication skills. We teach responsibility, decision-making, and the importance of leading by example.
Service Projects and Community Involvement
At NCA, we emphasize the importance of serving others. Our students are required to dedicate at least five hours of volunteer service to the community every quarter, or 20 hours per year. They participate in community clean-ups, food drives, mission trips, volunteering at nursing homes, and more.
These activities teach students the value of selflessness and giving back to the community. Through service, students learn to empathize with others and understand the impact of their actions on the world around them.
A Well-Rounded MIDDLE SCHOOL Education
NCA’s holistic approach helps students develop intellectually, spiritually, socially, and physically. We aim to prepare middle school students for all aspects of life.
Academic Excellence
NCA is committed to academic excellence, offering a rigorous curriculum that challenges students to reach their full potential. Our students consistently perform above grade level in core subjects such as math, science, and English. Advanced courses, tutoring, and enrichment programs allow our school to meet the diverse learning needs and interests of our students.
Fine Arts
The fine arts are a vital part of our well-rounded education. NCA offers a variety of programs in music, visual arts, and drama. Students have the opportunity to participate in school musicals, art exhibitions, and choir performances, helping them develop their creative talents and confidence.
Physical Education and Athletics
Physical education and athletics play a crucial role in our students' overall development. NCA offers a comprehensive physical education program that promotes fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles.
Students can participate in a range of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Our athletics program teaches students the value of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Spiritual Growth
At NCA, spiritual growth is at the heart of our mission. We provide a Christ-centered education that integrates faith into every aspect of learning. Daily Bible classes, weekly chapel services, and spiritual retreats help students deepen their relationship with God. Our curriculum is taught through a Biblical worldview, encouraging students to develop a Christ-like character and a strong moral foundation.
Community and Family Engagement
NCA values the partnership between school, family, and community. We encourage parents to be actively involved in their child's education through volunteer opportunities, the parent-teacher fellowship (PTF), and school events. Our community-oriented approach helps create a supportive and nurturing environment where students can thrive.
Our Middle School Results
NCA students across grade levels typically test an average of 1.5 years above their grade level on the Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment. Our middle school graduates often go on to get into special admissions high schools and become high school valedictorians. They tend to be actively involved in their communities as volunteers, leaders, and participants in a wide range of school activities.
Our alumni have gone on to attend prestigious national colleges like Duke, Stanford, and the US Military Academy – West Point as well as top-ranked in-state universities such as The University of Washington, Western Washington University, Gonzaga, and Seattle Pacific University. We see them succeeding in a wide range of fields, from computer science and engineering to counseling and theology.
Apply Now For a Preparatory Middle School Education
NCA’s commitment to a robust education prepares students to succeed in high school, higher education, and life. We develop a solid foundation across academic disciplines, emphasize the arts, and support students in developing their character and spirituality. Our students are not only ready to tackle high school challenges but are also equipped with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for success in a rapidly evolving world.
It’s not too late to apply for the 2024-25 school year! If you have questions about the application process, please contact Ashlee Cutsinger, our admissions manager, at 425.382.7926 or admissions@nca.school.
