Middle School

At St. John XXIII, our Middle School curriculum blends traditional instruction with hands-on experiences and technology to engage the whole student. Core subjects include English Language Arts, Math, Religion, Social Studies, Science, Spanish, Art, Music, Health, and Physical Education.

Grades 5 through 8 offer more advanced academic challenges, expanded leadership and service opportunities, and a wide range of co-curricular experiences. Math classes are ability-based, with Pre-Algebra and Algebra offered to students based on readiness. Middle schoolers also participate in retreats, student council, band, choir, and fine arts electives.

Our students are encouraged to explore, invent, and create in our STEAM Lab, Outdoor Classroom, and Greenhouse. Technology enhances learning in every classroom, with SMART Boards for interactive lessons and Chromebooks to supplement instruction. Middle School at SJ23 fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in a supportive, faith-based environment.

Middle School Electives (2026–27)

At St. John XXIII, electives give students the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and discover hidden talents beyond the core curriculum. Offered in a variety of areas—from arts and music to STEM, athletics, and leadership—our electives encourage creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Students select electives each trimester, allowing them to try different experiences throughout the year while deepening their passions.

Art Games

Students will explore art-based games that strengthen visual thinking, observation, and creative expression. This low-pressure elective blends classic games with art-focused twists to build confidence and encourage experimentation. Activities may include Pictionary, Pareidolia Scavenger Hunt, Telestrations, Exquisite Corpse, Art History Jeopardy, and Sculpey Pictionary.

Collage

Students will create artwork by combining a variety of materials such as paper, photos, fabric, and more. Through cutting, gluing, layering, and arranging, they will build scenes, tell stories, or create portraits. Students will explore texture, composition, and design while strengthening fine motor skills and creative expression.

From Page to Screen

Which is better—the book or the movie? In this class, students read short stories and books and compare them to their film versions. Selections will range from modern blockbusters to classic tales and novels to short stories. Students will read first—just like your mom told you to do.

Gardening 101

Students will learn the basics of gardening and plant care in the greenhouse. They will also explore how to harvest, preserve, and prepare food grown in the greenhouse and garden. This hands-on elective builds responsibility, patience, and appreciation for sustainability.

Intro to AI

Students will explore introductory concepts of artificial intelligence using tools such as MagicSchool and NotebookLM. They will learn how AI can be used to create custom chatbots, recommendation tools, songs, podcasts, quizzes, games, and simple digital projects. This elective emphasizes creativity, responsible technology use, and hands-on exploration.

Lights, Camera, Action

Students will perform a play by the last week of the trimester. Throughout the course, students will choose a script, audition for roles, design and create scenery, and memorize lines. Each student will bring their own creativity and personality to the stage as they work together to produce a final performance.
Note: Scripts may require a small purchase. We will explore affordable options, including resources from TPT.

Paint by Number

Students will complete 1–2 paint-by-number projects alongside fellow artists. Canvas options may include nature scenes, cityscapes, and famous world landmarks. The session concludes with a gallery walk celebration where students share their finished work.

Pep Band

Students will participate in a spirited ensemble focused on school spirit and live performance. Pep Band supports school events, assemblies, and games while building musical skills, teamwork, and performance confidence.

Piano Lessons

Students will participate in group piano lessons regardless of experience level. Instruction will focus on basic piano skills, music reading, and confidence at the keyboard. The goal is for students to grow at their own pace and, by the end of the trimester, share a short performance with one another.

Robotics

Students will explore the basics of robotics through hands-on building, programming, and problem-solving. They will work collaboratively to design, test, and improve robotic creations while developing critical thinking and engineering skills.

Spring Concert Backgrounds

Students will design and create backdrops for the spring concert in May. In collaboration with Mr. Brennan, students will paint large-scale scenery that enhances the concert experience and brings the performance to life.

Strings 101

Students will explore the string family of instruments, including ukulele, guitar, and violin. No prior band experience is required. Students will learn basic playing techniques and develop foundational music skills in a supportive environment.

Word Games

Students will engage in a variety of games centered around language, vocabulary, and creative thinking. Games may include Scrabble, Word on the Street, Pictionary, Catchphrase, and Scattergories. This elective strengthens communication skills while keeping learning fun and interactive.