The Middle Academy at Spokane International Academy is intentionally designed to help students navigate one of the most important transitions in their educational journey.

During these years, students strengthen their academic skills, discover their interests, build meaningful relationships, and develop the confidence needed to thrive in high school and beyond.

Our program combines rigorous academics, global learning, leadership opportunities, service, and student belonging to prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.

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The SIA Difference

Middle school is about much more than preparing for the next grade level.

At SIA, we prepare students to become thoughtful leaders, resilient learners, and engaged global citizens.

Students learn to:

• Think critically and solve complex problems.

• Develop strong study and organizational skills.

• Build healthy relationships and a positive sense of identity.

• Explore global issues and multiple perspectives.

• Serve their community.

• Prepare for high school, college, and future careers.

Everything we do supports our mission of empowering students to become leaders who positively transform their communities.

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School Culture

The Middle Academy is a place where students are known, challenged, and supported.

Students continue participating in many traditions that make Spokane International Academy unique, including:

• House Teams

• School-wide community celebrations

• Student leadership opportunities

• Service learning

• Clubs and extracurricular activities

• Athletics

• Field studies and travel experiences

As students mature, they are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning while developing independence, responsibility, and leadership skills.

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Academic Program

Students participate in a rigorous academic program that prepares them for success in high school and beyond.

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Sixth Grade

Students take:

• English 6

• Math 6

• Science 6

• History 6

• Spanish 6

• Global Perspectives

• Art or Music

• Health & Fitness

• Elective Courses

 

 

Seventh Grade

Students take:

• English 7

• Math 7 (or Algebra for qualified students)

• Science 7

• History 7

• Spanish I (High School Credit)

• Global Perspectives

• Art or Music

• Health & Fitness

• Elective Courses

 

 

Eighth Grade

Students take:

• English 8

• Math 8 (or Algebra/Geometry, when appropriate)

• Science 8

• History 8

• Spanish II (High School Credit)

• Global Perspectives

• Art or Music

• Health & Fitness

• Elective Courses

Students who qualify may begin earning high school credit before entering ninth grade.

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Signature Middle Academy Experiences

 

Sixth Grade Cohort Model

The transition into middle school is a significant milestone. To help students feel connected and supported, sixth graders participate in a cohort model.

Students remain with a consistent group of classmates throughout much of the school day, allowing them to:

• Build strong friendships

• Develop meaningful relationships with teachers

• Experience a smooth transition into middle school

• Receive personalized academic and social-emotional support

The cohort model creates a close-knit learning community where every student is known and valued.

 

 

Global Perspectives

Every middle school student participates in Global Perspectives, one of SIA's signature courses. Students investigate current events and global challenges while learning to:

• Analyze multiple perspectives

• Engage in respectful dialogue

• Think critically

• Develop empathy

• Become informed global citizens

 

 

Eighth Grade Community Project

Every eighth-grade student completes a year-long Community Project through Global Perspectives.

Students identify a need in their community, research possible solutions, and design a project that creates meaningful local impact while connecting to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This capstone experience encourages students to become active citizens who recognize their ability to make a difference.

 

 

Athletics & Activities

Middle Academy students have many opportunities to discover their interests outside the classroom.

 

Athletics

Current athletic opportunities include:

• Cross Country

• Track & Field

As our program continues to grow, we will expand athletic offerings based on student interest and available resources.

As a member of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA), SIA students compete against schools of similar size throughout the region.

Students may also participate in sports offered through their resident public school if that sport is not currently offered at Spokane International Academy, in accordance with Washington State regulations.

 

 

Clubs & Leadership

Students are encouraged to become involved through a variety of clubs and leadership opportunities.

Examples include:

• Student Government (ASB)

• Model United Nations

• Theater

• Choir

• Chess Club

• Coding Club

• eSports

• Art Club

• Fitness Club

• Math is Cool

• Student Media

• Yearbook

• Community Service (Phoenix Love)

New clubs are regularly created based on student interest.

 

 

School Events

Middle Academy students enjoy a vibrant school community filled with opportunities to connect with classmates.

Annual events may include:

• School dances

• Spirit Weeks

• House competitions

• Leadership activities

• Community service events

• Field studies

• School celebrations

 

 

Travel Opportunities

Learning extends beyond the classroom.

Middle Academy students participate in field studies and experiential learning throughout the year.

 

Eighth Grade International Experience

Eighth-grade students have the opportunity to participate in an educational trip to a Spanish-speaking country.

Past destinations have included:

• Costa Rica

• Dominican Republic

• Peru

• Ecuador

• Panama

These experiences combine cultural immersion, service learning, and opportunities to practice Spanish while developing global competence.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can students earn high school credit while in middle school?

Yes. Students who qualify may earn high school credit through courses such as Spanish I, Spanish II, and Algebra, giving them a strong academic foundation before entering high school.

 

 

Who should I contact with questions?

 

We would love to tell you more about the Middle Academy experience.

Dr. Chandalee Wood  (wood@spokaneintlacademy.org)

Associate Principal, Grades 6–12