Middle School, Grades 5 through 8
Empowering students to think globally, act locally, and lead with empathy, insight and intention.
GIS Middle School offers an engaging, language rich program for students in grades 5 through 8, combining academic rigor with hands on learning and global perspective. Launched in 2023, the program builds on GIS’s longstanding reputation as a leading IB World School and language immersion program.
Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced educators, and a diverse, supportive environment where curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking are at the center of learning.
International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, inquiry based instruction
An interdisciplinary focus on language, humanities and STEAM projects.
Continued German or Mandarin Chinese language immersion with English anchor.
Learning through place and purpose.
At GIS, middle school students take an active role in their education. Through place-based learning, they explore their local environment and community as part of their academic experience. Projects are grounded in real world issues, encouraging students to think critically, work collaboratively, and take meaningful action.
This experiential, integrated approach fosters practical inquiry and communication skills, creative and innovative thinking, and environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Whether restoring a local green space, meeting with community leaders, or designing solutions to real world problems, students learn to see their impact and their potential.
Athletics and community building
GIS middle school students have the opportunity to compete in the Metro Christian League (MCL) alongside schools such as Oregon Episcopal School, Catlin Gabel, and The French International School. The MCL emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition across a variety of team sports.
Through athletics, service projects, and collaborative learning, students build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.
Creativity not as an extracurricular
At GIS, music and the arts are integral to the middle school experience. Aligned with the IB Learner Profile, our arts programming helps students develop as reflective, open minded and balanced individuals. Whether they’re curious about composing a piece in music class or exploring visual storytelling through mixed media, students are encouraged to take creative risks and express their perspectives with confidence.
In a time when adolescence often means conformity, the arts offer students a space to explore identity, build emotional resilience, and connect with multiple cultures. We hope to cultivate young adults who see and shape the world more thoughtfully.