Second Step (6th, 7th, 8th grade)
Grade 6: The Old Testament
Grade 7: The New Testament
Grade 8: Catholic Principles & Morality; Theology of the Body

Through customized math groups designed to match individual skill levels, every student benefits from personalized attention and the necessary support to excel in mathematics. We integrate hands-on projects that bring math to life. For instance, students in 6th engage in exciting projects, like building creatures from cardboard, where they not only get creative but also delve into the world of geometry by calculating the surface area of their unique creations. We take it a step further by providing wrapping paper in the exact dimensions of their masterpieces, challenging them to apply their newfound knowledge practically, ensuring they can wrap their creatures with precision.

This engaging experience not only reinforces mathematical concepts but also instills problem-solving skills in a fun and tangible way.

By 8th grade, our students can analyze complex data sets, apply algebraic equations to real-world scenarios, and comprehend geometric principles to solve practical challenges.

Grade 6, 7, & 8: Physical Science
Matter and Its Interactions
Energy, Forces and Motion
Electricity, Waves and Information Transfer

Grade 6: Ancient World History & Geography
Grade 7: World History & Geography (from the fall of Rome to the Renaissance)
Grade 8: US History (Colonialism through the Civil War)

Students can participate CYO sports where they hone athletic skills at a more advanced level in basketball, track, and volleyball. They can also become Student Ambassadors, leaders who give tours to prospective families and represent the school at events.

Our dedicated Student Council provides a platform for students to voice their ideas and initiate positive change within our school community.

Students love our unique trimester electives, including fun options like journalism, textile arts, board game design, and melting and burning art that allow students to develop new interests!

At the middle school level, students master the art of effective communication by crafting documents and presentations that convey their ideas with clarity and impact.

They're also honing their problem-solving skills through engaging coding activities that challenge their creativity and analytical thinking. 

This comprehensive tech education is not just about staying current with technology; it's about shaping well-rounded individuals who are poised to excel in a digitally-driven world, where effective communication and problem-solving skills are the keys to success.

Holy Cross has invested in technology in every classroom to ensure students have the latest tools - smart boards that turn lessons into interactive adventures, Chromebooks and iPads that transform learning into a touch-and-swipe journey

Maintaining Physical Education (PE) at the middle school level is paramount -it helps those who may not participate in outside sports, ensuring that everyone has a weekly opportunity to stay active. It also fosters vital skill development and cooperation.

PE offers a structured curriculum that encompasses various sports and skills, ranging from hockey and basketball to soccer and volleyball. However, it's not just about mastering the rules of the game; it's about instilling the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

ART

Our students are granted a dedicated space in their weekly schedules for artistic exploration in music and art! In art students work with perspective and abstract art, painting vibrant landscapes that mirror their own unique perspectives.

MUSIC

In our weekly music classes, students delve into music theory, sing regularly and explore different instruments.

This year students performed at the advent program using their voices, bells, bucket drums and recorders!