Middle School

Grade 5-8

Welcome to MCDS Middle School! We are so happy you’re here!

The middle school years are a unique period of transition, where students embrace greater independence, discover who they are, and find their place in the world. At MCDS, we support our students on their journey from childhood to young adulthood with a well-rounded academic framework, a robust advisory program that nurtures social-emotional growth, and an extensive selection of electives and extracurricular activities. We are honored to be recognized as a School of Distinction by AMLE, an organization that celebrates excellence in middle school education.

Middle school at MCDS marks the beginning of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). The MYP is designed with our students at its core, aiming to sustain curiosity through an inquiry-based approach that fosters conceptual understanding. Our dedicated teachers create a safe, stimulating learning community and offer experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore their passions, develop critical thinking skills, and nurture a strong sense of global awareness and empathy.

The middle school journey begins with our bridge year program, which prepares our 5th graders for success. Our advisory program is tailored to meet the unique needs of each grade level, and we take pride in knowing every learner and serving their individual needs.

I look forward to working with and for you and your family.

With appreciation,
Rebecca Polak
Head of Middle School

Our Middle School Social Events

Rebecca Polak

Head of Middle School

_{Middle School; IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)}
_{BA, Washington State University}
_{MEd, Willamette University}

There is a wonderfully positive atmosphere at MCDS Middle School which stems from the daily interactions of students with their teachers. MCDS has not only met our son’s needs, but showed us what an amazing difference a school can make in the life of a child.

MCDS fifth grade parent

middle school students sitting outside together smiling

Grade 5

Middle School, and fifth grade in particular, is an exciting time of tremendous growth. The academic journey continues with IB’s Middle Years Programme (MYP). Language Arts, history, and geography are combined together into a vibrant Humanities course.

Learn more about grade 5

Grade 6

During sixth grade we see tremendous emotional, physical, and academic development. Academics continue with Humanities, science, Spanish, and the arts. Students continue to dive into music theory, ensemble and instrument lessons.

Learn more about Grade 6

Grade 7

In seventh grade, growth is embraced and supported both in and out of the classroom. Adolescents can feel secure as they explore all sides of themselves with confidence that they will be appreciated for who they are now as well as who they will become.

Learn more about grade 7

Grade 8

In eighth grade, the academic journey expands as students take on in-depth academic projects, gain confidence in Socratic seminar-style classes that build analytical and discussion skills, try new activities, and persevere to achieve personal goals.

Learn more about grade 8

OUR MISSION

Madison Country Day School is an independent, college-preparatory, Pre-K to Grade 12, International Baccalaureate World School whose mission is to:

Inspire each student to discover their extraordinary capacity to learn and thrive in an evolving world by cultivating a challenging environment and a supportive community.