ACADEMICS
Middle School
Growing in Faith and Learning
Middle School Principal
jcuster2@harding.edu
The middle school years are a season of growth, discovery, and preparation. At Harding Academy, we are committed to guiding students in grades 5–8 through this important stage with care, challenge, and purpose. Each day, students are known and loved as they are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, socially, and personally.
Our goal is to prepare middle school students for success in high school and beyond by equipping them with strong academic skills, a deeper faith, and the confidence to lead and serve.
Curriculum
Middle school students engage in a rigorous academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Teachers employ varied instructional strategies—including project-based learning, technology integration, and hands-on activities—to make learning meaningful and developmentally responsive for early adolescents.
Beyond the core subjects, students take part in a rotation of specials such as art, STEM, band, choir, theatre, and physical education. Students also explore new interests through exploratory classes that may include Careers, Coding, Book Club, and Wild Arkansas. These courses give students the freedom to try new skills, discover passions, and connect learning to real-world experiences.
This balanced approach challenges students intellectually while inspiring them to explore their gifts and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
Spiritual Growth
Faith is at the heart of the Harding Academy experience. Middle school students attend daily Bible classes and chapel services where they study God’s Word, ask meaningful questions, and learn what it looks like to live as followers of Christ.
Through a sequenced Bible curriculum, memory verses, and intentional mentoring, students grow in their knowledge of Scripture and develop the spiritual foundation they need to stand firm as they move into their teenage years.