Middle School | Academics

Encouraging Excellence in Grades 5–8

In Gilman’s Middle School, students develop study and learning skills that will prepare them for Upper School, college, and beyond. Boys begin to spread their wings and discover their interests in an encouraging, cooperative, and caring environment. During their four years in this division, they develop the confidence to take risks, embrace responsibility, and cultivate a genuine love of learning.

The Middle School curriculum is robust. In each of his four years, a student takes language arts, math, a social studies/history course, a modern language, a sequential Talk class, and other required classes as determined by his grade level. Latin is added in the eighth grade. Boys will also choose from art, design and woodworking, technology, journalism, and communication skills courses, and all participate in physical education/athletics.

Varied extracurricular activities and clubs provide myriad opportunities for boys to try something new outside of class. The Middle School 1:1 iPad Program fosters dynamic, interactive, and personal learning.

Apply for Admission

Learn about the Middle School admissions process.

Middle School Calendar

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MS Day 1

Dec 12 2025

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MS Day 2

Dec 15 2025

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MS Day 3

Dec 16 2025

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MS Day 4

Dec 17 2025

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MS Day 5

Dec 18 2025

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MS Day 6

Dec 19 2025

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Gilman's Middle School seeks to help each student strengthen his self-concept, to nurture his inherent love of learning, and to prepare him for Upper School and beyond.

Middle School Objectives and Goals

Grade-Level Objectives

Grade 5 is the first stepping stone in preparation for high school and future learning. Boys develop skills that enhance and strengthen the learning process through core courses, which meet their appropriate academic development level. In this first year of Middle School, boys begin their journey toward independent learning.
Grade 6 builds upon the foundations implemented in the fifth grade year.
Grade 7 further prepares boys as active learners and critical thinkers. Students expand upon academic skills learned in grade six and delve more deeply into the study of core subjects. In the middle of Middle School, boys solidify their foundational skills.
Grade 8 aims to prepare boys for their first year as high school students. Latin, which lays a foundation for future language or scientific learning, is added as a core course, and boys may choose two special-interest elective classes. The final year of Middle School leaves the boys well-prepared for their freshman year.

Divisional Goals

The Middle School experience, both in its curricular and extra-curricular components, is designed to meet the following goals for students:

Academic

To provide courses appropriate to the developmental level of the students
To meet the individual needs of students by providing enriched or support programs where appropriate
To help students develop strong study skills
To develop students' communication skills in all subject areas
To give students increasing opportunities for independent learning
To provide opportunities for creative expression

Character and Social-Emotional

To help students develop personal honor and integrity
To encourage a sense of community responsibility and an awareness of the world beyond Gilman
To provide opportunities for student leadership and involvement in the school community
To provide special support and counsel for those who need it
To help build an acceptance of diversity
To help students become more adept at decision-making and problem-solving
To encourage communication between students and their families

Physical

Middle School Academic Offerings and Requirements

Meet the Middle School Team

You can call the Middle School's Front Office at 410-323-3800, ext. 303.