Middle School (7-8) - New England Jewish Academy

Middle School at NEJA: Growing Minds, Deepening Values

At NEJA, our Middle School program for 7th and 8th graders emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and Jewish identity. It is designed to support students through one of the most important stages of growth—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. With dedicated teachers and small class sizes, students receive the guidance and attention they need to build confidence, independence, and strong academic habits.

Our curriculum challenges students to think critically, ask big questions, and take ownership of their learning. At the same time, we continue to nurture their connection to Jewish values and identity, helping them navigate the world with empathy, purpose, and pride.

Middle School at NEJA bridges childhood and young adulthood with care, creativity, and community—preparing students for high school and a lifetime of meaningful learning.

Middle School Curriculum

7th and 8th grade students prepare for high school with increasingly complex academics. They enhance their skills in analyzing texts in both English and Hebrew, conduct independent research, and use technology extensively, including coding and creating websites. The curriculum includes advanced studies in Jewish texts and a dedicated STEM and engineering program. In math, students are placed according to their skill level, with many advancing to high school-level courses by 8th grade. Students also engage in community service through Chesed programs. NEJA offers Study Skills Workshops for our Middle School students, covering time management, organization, and overall preparedness for high school success.

We are committed to developing each student’s capacity for academic and intellectual achievement.
We are committed to developing each student’s capacity to learn both individually and collaboratively.
We are committed to developing each student’s “Growth Mindset.”
We are committed to developing each student’s metacognitive and social-emotional learning capacities: self-awareness, social awareness, decision-making and relationship skills within and beyond the classroom.

Students take courses in both secular and Jewish subjects as well as electives in areas of interest.

Math

The curriculum transitions from arithmetic to more abstract concepts including ratios, proportions, pre-algebra, and geometry. Students learn to justify their reasoning and solve multi-step problems. These years build the bridge between basic skills and high school algebra, setting the stage for success in more rigorous courses. High school math classes are also available for Middle schoolers.

English

Students read a variety of genres, from short stories and poetry to novels and non-fiction. Writing instruction includes narrative, persuasive, and analytical essays, with emphasis on grammar, structure, and vocabulary. These skills form the basis for the critical reading and sophisticated writing expected in high school.

Science

Middle school science introduces the scientific method and covers biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science through labs, models, and collaborative projects. Students develop observation, experimentation, and data analysis skills that are essential for high school coursework and lab work.

Talmud

Students begin formal study of the Talmud, developing skills in reading, translating, and understanding the logic of rabbinic discourse. Lessons focus on key terms, structure, and sugyot (topics) that are accessible and relevant. This introduction lays the foundation for independent chavruta (peer study) learning and deeper engagement in high school.

Engineering

In this course, students study the basic principles of mechanical and electrical engineering, and they learn to program primarily using Arduino: a single-board microcontroller combined with a software suite for programming it. Students also learn key concepts of the design engineering process through a multi-month product design project. In the second half of the year, students will work in groups to design an original product which will be presented at the annual CIJE Innovation Day.

Chumash

Middle schoolers refine their translation and textual analysis skills, working directly with biblical Hebrew and classical commentaries. The curriculum emphasizes themes, structure, and character development, building on the narrative knowledge gained in lower school. Students begin to ask critical questions and explore multiple interpretations.

History

Students study ancient civilizations, world religions, History of Israel & Zionism, American history with a focus on cause and effect, historical inquiry, and primary source analysis. They learn to write evidence-based essays and connect historical events to modern themes. They also learn to research topics, summarize, develop and present their findings. These analytical skills are essential for high school history and research projects.

Navi

Students study selections from the Prophets with an emphasis on historical context, literary structure, and ethical messages. Lessons explore themes of leadership, justice, and divine-human relationships. The skills developed here—critical reading, context analysis, and moral reflection—prepare students for high school-level text study.

Halacha

Middle school students learn the structure and sources of Jewish law, focusing on daily mitzvot, holidays, and personal behavior. They begin to explore how halacha is derived and applied, transitioning from learning 'what we do' to understanding 'why we do it.' This prepares students for the analytical and contemporary halachic discussions of high school.

Art and Music

In middle school, students have the choice of art or music. Students explore more complex techniques, media, and historical styles, while learning to critique and interpret works. Music includes theory, composition, and performance, often connecting to cultural or historical themes. These courses build technical skill and a deeper appreciation for artistic expression.