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Middle School
Sixth Grade - Eighth Grade
The Middle School Program at Augustus Tolton Catholic Academy prepares students for high school and beyond through rigorous academics, project-based learning, and strong faith formation. Students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, and take ownership of their learning.
Our program balances academic expectations with personal growth, helping students develop independence, responsibility, and leadership skills.
STEM & Project-Based Learning
Real-world challenges, real-world skills
Middle school students engage deeply in STEM through Defined Learning, a digital platform built around extended, interdisciplinary projects. These projects require students to analyze problems, collaborate with peers, and present solutions—mirroring real-world professional experiences.
Students strengthen skills in critical thinking, research, communication, and innovation while preparing for the demands of high school coursework.
Advanced Mathematics
Conceptual understanding with real-world application
Our middle school math curriculum is based on CMP4 (Connected Mathematics Project), supported by Everyday Math foundations. This approach emphasizes reasoning, problem-solving, and conceptual understanding rather than memorization alone.
Through our partnership with the University of Chicago, teachers receive ongoing coaching and professional development, ensuring students benefit from the most current and effective instructional practices.
Reading, Writing & Critical Thinking
Strengthening literacy across content areas
Using the Schoolwide reading curriculum, middle school students deepen their skills in comprehension, analysis, and written expression. Literacy instruction supports learning across all subjects, helping students engage with complex texts, develop strong arguments, and express ideas clearly and confidently.
Academic & Student Support
Meeting students where they are
Tolton’s middle school students benefit from strong academic and social-emotional support through partnerships with:
Big Shoulders Fund
University of Chicago
Student Savvy Counseling
EYA Reading & Math Interventionists
Sacred Heart Tutors
These partnerships provide targeted intervention, enrichment, and counseling services that support students during this critical stage of development.