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Middle School


7th & 8th Grades

Registration for NEW families opens May 1st! Stay Tuned for more info!

The middle school years are a time of transition. Anchor offers engaging courses for seventh and eighth graders that maintain our interactive approach to education while challenging students to think more deeply and take ownership of their learning. These years will prepare our students for the challenges and responsibilities they will face in high school and beyond.

Registration for the 2026/27 school year opens soon!

April 17th for Current Families

May 1st for New Families

For more information on 2025/26 Tuition and Fees, click HERE

For a Printable 2025/26 High School schedule, click HERE


Core Courses- Click on the course names below to go directly to a course description.
   
Building Better Writers
Exploring Great Books!
Anatomy and Physiology
Life Science
Maryland History
Foundations of Middle School Math
Pre-Algebra 
Algebra


Elective Courses- Click on the course names below to go directly to a course description
2026/27On Rotation
American Sign Language 1 (ASL)Creative Design with Canva
Art with Mrs.BeckyComputer Science and Programming
PE
DramaSpring
Public Speaking
Photography
Yearbook
Intro to Animation!


2026/27 Middle School Courses



TUTOR: Brenda Gibbs

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT

DESCRIPTION: 


This course brings writing to life by helping students build confidence in grammar, punctuation, and clear communication. Students will actively practice their skills through engaging lessons and collaborative activities as they explore the four major types of writing: informative, explanatory, argumentative, and narrative. Along the way, they’ll learn how to organize their ideas using outlines and graphic organizers, develop strong drafts, and refine their work through revision and editing. Writing becomes a hands-on process as students workshop ideas, give and receive feedback, and improve their work step-by-step. Emphasis is placed on both creativity and clarity, helping students express their thoughts effectively. By the end of the course, students will feel more confident and capable in every stage of the writing process.


TUTOR: Katie Bierne

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: The Trojan War, Anne of Green Gables, The Bronze Bow, and The Hobbit. (Memoria Press text- waiting on a bulk discount!)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Exploring Great Books introduces students to a range of engaging literary works designed to strengthen reading and analytical skills. Students will examine key elements of literature such as plot, character, theme, and setting, using Memoria Press Literature guides as the course's spine. Through guided discussion and written responses, students will learn to interpret texts and support their ideas with evidence. The course includes a mix of novels and poems appropriate for middle school readers. Instruction emphasizes thoughtful reading, clear expression, and meaningful engagement with texts. By the end of the course, students will be more confident and capable readers. Students entering this class should be able to write complete sentences, recognize and name parts of speech (noun/verb/adjective/adverb/conjunction/preposition), and identify subjects and predicates in sentences. 

**There is currently an inquiry sent to Memoria Press about receiving a bulk discount for the necessary materials**

THIS CLASS MEETS TWICE A WEEK! Must attend BOTH days!

TUTOR: Jennie Carr

CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes twice a week

COURSE FEE: $600 MATERIALS FEE: $50

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Assignments on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

PREREQUISITE: must be ready for 6th-grade math. Placement test available. Contact us

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This middle school math course provides a comprehensive overview of essential math skills, including whole numbers, fractions, decimals, integers, algebraic expressions, equations, ratios, geometry, and basic statistics. Students will build a strong foundation through clear instruction, guided practice, and problem-solving activities. The course is designed to be accessible and flexible for families learning at home, with instructional videos and answer keys provided for every lesson. Parents are equipped to support and guide their students step by step. Emphasis is placed on understanding concepts, not just memorizing procedures. This course helps students grow in confidence and readiness for higher-level math.

Click here: Foundations Course Outline

THIS CLASS MEETS TWICE A WEEK! Must attend BOTH days!

TUTOR: Jessica Knott

CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes twice a week

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Curriculum Provided

COURSE FEE: $600 MATERIALS FEE: $50

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Assignments on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

PREREQUISITE: Completed 6th-grade math. Contact us for a placement test and summer work to prepare for Prealgebra.

DESCRIPTION: The tutor introduces two to three new skills each week and works closely with students to ensure comprehension of further information. Students must complete assignments outside of class to keep up with the pace of the course. Topics covered will include real numbers, equations, exponents, ratios and percentages, functions and linear relationships, systems of equations, geometry, probability, and statistics.  The course is designed to be accessible and flexible for families learning at home, with instructional videos and answer keys provided for every lesson. Parents are equipped to support and guide their students step by step. Emphasis is placed on understanding concepts, not just memorizing procedures. This course helps students grow in confidence and readiness for higher-level math.

Click here: Pre-Algebra Course Outline.


THIS CLASS MEETS TWICE A WEEK! Must attend BOTH days!

TUTOR: Jessica Knott

CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes twice a week

COURSE FEE: $600 MATERIALS FEE: $50

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Assignments on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

PREREQUISITE: PreAlgebra  Contact us for a placement test and summer work to prepare for algebra.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: THIS CLASS MEETS TWICE A WEEK! BOTH days must be attended.

This Algebra 1 course introduces students to foundational algebra concepts, including solving equations and inequalities, graphing linear functions, working with exponents, polynomials, and quadratic equations, and analyzing data. Students will develop problem-solving skills and learn to apply math concepts to real-world situations. The course is designed to be accessible for home learning, with clear instructional videos and complete answer keys provided for every lesson. Parents are equipped to guide and support their students step-by-step. Emphasis is placed on understanding concepts, building confidence, and preparing students for higher-level math. The tutor introduces two to three new skills each week and works closely with students to ensure comprehension of further information. Students must complete assignments outside of class to keep up with the pace of the course.

 You can find outlines here: Algebra Outline.

TUTOR: Brenda Gibbs

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $75

HOMEWORK LEVEL: moderate

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This middle school Anatomy and Physiology course invites students to explore the design and function of the human body. Students will study key body systems, including the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems, to gain a deeper understanding of how they work together. 

Through interactive lessons, review activities, and hands-on experiences, students will actively engage with the material. Lab components, which may include optional dissections, will reinforce learning and help bring concepts to life. The course emphasizes curiosity, discovery, and understanding how the body functions in everyday life. 

This course lays a strong foundation for future science studies while making learning both exciting and memorable. Through engaging projects and experiments, students will uncover how the body's parts work together in remarkable harmony, reflecting the intricacy of God’s creation. We will discuss how our bodies are wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and how understanding our anatomy can inspire us to take care of the physical gifts we have been given.


TUTOR: Dr.Trisha Pellegrino

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $75, includes lab supplies

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: Purposeful Design Life Science 

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this introductory Life Science class, students will learn about the vast variety of life found on earth. They will study God's creation through observation, experimentation, readings, lectures, discussions, and projects. Six units cover the basics of life science, including cells and taxonomy, viruses and bacteria, plants, animals, genetics and heredity, and ecology. Homework will consist of readings, short answer questions, and worksheets. Grades will be based on homework completion, class participation, and performance on tests, quizzes, and projects.

TUTOR: Jennie Carr

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: TBD

DESCRIPTION: In this class, we will delve into Maryland's rich history as we travel back in time to discover our state's diverse and enthralling past. Through interactive activities, discussions, and projects, we will explore historical events, figures, and themes to examine how our distinctive geographical, cultural, and economic factors have shaped them.


TUTOR: Liesl Schiavone

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./15 weeks

COURSE FEE: $150 MATERIALS FEE: $50 includes all materials

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Light

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will teach beginning and intermediate acting skills, improvisation, and the elements involved in putting on a theatrical production from beginning to end. Students will audition and be assigned roles to prepare for their final performance throughout the semester. Students will be required to memorize lines and stage directions and contribute artistically to the production. Material fees will cover script, performance, recording, and set costs. In addition, students will be responsible for their costumes.

TUTOR: Perry Barry

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $50

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

COURSE DESCRIPTION: 

In this engaging and interactive course, students will develop essential public speaking skills that will empower them to communicate confidently and effectively in a variety of settings. Designed for both middle and high school students, this class will cover the fundamental elements of speech preparation, delivery, and audience engagement.

Students will learn how to structure their speeches, use persuasive language, and incorporate visual aids to enhance their presentations. Through group discussions, individual presentations, and peer feedback, learners will cultivate their abilities to think critically and articulate their ideas clearly.

Key topics include:

- Understanding the components of effective public speaking
- Overcoming anxiety and building confidence
- Crafting compelling narratives and arguments
- Utilizing body language, voice modulation, and pacing
- Adapting speeches for different audiences and contexts

By the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to showcase their skills through a final presentation, allowing them to apply what they've learned in a supportive environment. Whether preparing for future academic opportunities or aiming to express themselves more effectively in daily life, students will leave this course equipped with the tools they need to succeed as confident speakers.

TUTOR: Ashley Leveling-Jackson 

GRADE LEVEL: 7th–12th Grades

COURSE FEE: $150/semester  MATERIALS FEE: $50/semester

HOMEWORK LEVEL: light

Required Materials: a DSLR Camera (suggested but not required- Nikon, Sony, Canon), an SD card with a cord to upload images, and a laptop computer for editing. Students can use a point-and-shoot camera as long as it has a manual mode and an aperture setting.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONStudents will explore how photography has shaped history and the significance of using images to convey feelings and emotions. Students will jump in with hands-on activities and learn about various types of photography, shooting in manual mode (focusing on the exposure triangle), aperture priority mode, and photo composition. They will also practice shooting indoors and outdoors, in harsh sunlight, and in low light conditions. A small portion of the course will be dedicated to basic editing techniques.

Students will build their confidence by applying what they’ve learned in each class and creating a portfolio that showcases a variety of topics, including nature, portraits, and animals. We will engage in constructive criticism in class to foster improvement and learning from one another.

Students are required to bring to class: a DSLR Camera (suggested but not required- Nikon, Sony, Canon), an SD card with a cord to upload images, and a laptop computer for editing. Students can use a point-and-shoot camera as long as it has a manual mode and an aperture setting. 

**Please note that students will need an editing program. We are currently searching for simple, free editing software that meets our needs and will provide an update on this soon.**


TUTOR: Kristin Robertson

GRADE LEVEL: 7th–12th Grades

COURSE FEE: $150/semester MATERIALS FEE: $50/semester

HOMEWORK LEVEL: light

Required Materials: 

THIS CLASS MEETS TWICE A WEEK! Must attend BOTH days!

TUTOR: Angela Somers

GRADE LEVEL: 7th–12th Grades

COURSE FEE: $600 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: light

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The students will learn new signs and become proficient in using American Sign Language to communicate with others. The course's primary focus is to introduce students to American Sign Language. In addition to learning ASL, students will be exposed to the fundamental aspects of the Deaf community.

TUTOR: Becky VanRees

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $75

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Light

COURSE DESCRIPTIONART OF A NATION~ This course invites students to explore the story of the United States through its art. In Art of a Nation, students will study influential artists, movements, and works that reflect the nation’s history, culture, and identity—from early colonial pieces to modern and contemporary expressions.

Each unit centers on a focused artist, allowing students to analyze their style, techniques, and historical context. Students will then apply what they learn through hands-on art projects inspired by that artist’s work, developing both creative skills and a deeper understanding of artistic expression.

Throughout the course, students will maintain a mentor-style art journal, using it as a space for reflection, sketching, idea development, and personal response to the art they encounter. Regular class discussions will encourage students to think critically, articulate their perspectives, and engage with questions such as: What makes art “American”? How does art reflect culture, values, and change over time?

By the end of the course, students will not only gain an appreciation for American art but also grow in creativity, observation, and confidence in discussing and creating art.



TUTOR: Ariel Eagan

CLASS LENGTH: 1 hour

COURSE FEE: $200 year/ $100 semester. MATERIALS FEE: $25

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th Grades

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Comfortable clothing and sneakers

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This class will be 60 minutes of high-energy and fun-filled activities, starting with a dynamic warm-up and a series of exercises and ending with games. By making exercise fun, students get excited to move around. This results in becoming physically stronger and more energetic. It's a significant first step to cultivating a lifetime of health and fitness!


TUTOR: Caleb Bickford

CLASS LENGTH:  90 minutes

COURSE FEE:  $300/year  MATERIALS FEE:  $40

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th Grades

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Dive into the captivating world of animation in this introductory course! Designed for beginners, this class will explore the fundamental principles of animation, including timing, movement, and storytelling. Students will gain hands-on experience with both traditional and digital techniques, using software to create their own short animations. Through engaging projects and collaborative workshops, participants will develop their unique artistic voice while learning the essential skills to bring their ideas to life. Join us on this creative journey and discover the magic of bringing your imagination to life!


Classes on Rotation

TUTOR: Lauren Steakley

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins. /30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: Geomatters: a Trail Guide to World Geography

DESCRIPTION: Get ready for an exciting journey through World Geography! In this course, you’ll dive into the amazing features and unique traits of all seven continents while unlocking important geographical terms. You’ll have the chance to become a map-making maestro through fun activities and engaging atlas adventures! With thrilling drills, creative assignments, and hands-on projects, learning will be a blast. Plus, each week, you’ll embark on your own independent research quests. Let the exploration begin!


TUTOR: Leslie Arigo

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $75

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Light

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Unlock your artistic potential in this dynamic and hands-on art class designed for beginners and aspiring designers alike! In "Creative Design with Canva," you will explore the fundamentals of graphic design while learning to create stunning visual content using Canva, a user-friendly online design tool.

Throughout the course, you will: Understand Design Principles: Learn the basics of color theory, typography, layout, and composition to enhance your design skills.
  
Create Eye-Catching Cards: Design beautiful greeting cards for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays, using Canva’s extensive templates and customization options.

Design Engaging Posters: Develop posters that capture attention, whether for events, promotions, or personal projects, while mastering the art of visual storytelling.

Craft Unique Invitations: Create personalized invitations that set the tone for your special events, incorporating your own style and creativity.

Develop Informative Newsletters: Learn how to design newsletters that effectively communicate information and engage your audience through visual appeal.

Logo Creation: Dive into branding with a focus on logo design, where you'll create a distinctive logo that represents your unique vision or business.

By the end of this course, you will have a robust portfolio showcasing your creations, along with the skills and confidence to continue your design journey. Join us to unleash your creativity and make your ideas come to life with Canva!


TUTOR: Ralph Fierro

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./15 weeks

COURSE FEE: $150 MATERIALS FEE: Students will be required to purchase a monthly subscription to Compuscholar

GRADE LEVEL: 7th-12th

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Light

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Our tutor will use the curriculum from Compuscholar as the class tackles a wealth of information about computers, digital platforms and their application in today's worlds. Take a peek at the Course Syllabus!


TUTOR: Melissa Hardesty

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $75, includes lab supplies

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: Purposeful Design Earth and Space Science and Lab Manual

COURSE DESCRIPTION:This engaging, hands-on Earth Science course explores God’s creation through the study of geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Meeting once a week for 90 minutes, students will investigate Earth’s structure, weather patterns, ecosystems, and the vast universe, all while developing critical thinking skills and a deeper appreciation for the world God has designed. Lessons will incorporate interactive activities, experiments, and discussions that connect scientific principles with biblical truth. Students will learn about Earth’s processes, such as plate tectonics, erosion, and the water cycle, and explore how science reflects God’s order and creativity. Emphasis will be placed on stewardship of the Earth and understanding how science and faith work together. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in Earth Science concepts, be able to analyze scientific data, and appreciate the beauty and complexity of God’s creation.


TUTOR: Katie Bierne

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: TBD

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Step into the past and bring history to life through storytelling! This unique course blends language arts and social studies by exploring historical fiction while diving into the periods that shaped the world. Meeting once a week for 90 minutes, students will read and analyze various historical literature, strengthening their grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension while gaining a deeper understanding of the events, cultures, and people of the past. Students will develop their writing skills by crafting responses, essays, and creative narratives inspired by historical settings. They will learn how to structure their writing, build strong sentences, and refine their grammar—all while engaging with rich, thought-provoking stories. Those needing a social studies credit will complete an additional assignment each week, focusing on historical research and analysis of the era being studied.

By the end of this course, students will grow as skilled writers and gain a greater appreciation for history, seeing God’s sovereign hand at work throughout time.


TUTOR: Jill Ketchem

CLASS LENGTH: 90 mins./30 weeks

COURSE FEE: $300 MATERIALS FEE: $40

HOMEWORK LEVEL: Moderate

REQUIRED TEXT: America the Beautiful

DESCRIPTION: In this richly illustrated, faith-based course, we will be diving into US History beginning with the earliest people and explorers important to this time period, and continuing through the end of the reconstruction era. Using “America the Beautiful” by Ray Notgrass, the students will build on previously learned mapping and timeline skills to give them a better overall view of how God used different people and events to help shape our beautiful America into the land and government it is today.  More than just historical events, 5 types of lessons will be taught throughout the year. Learning will be divided into these categories: historical events, a descriptive lesson focused on God’s beautiful creation in America, major landmarks, biographies and primary source readings of specific people who lived during the time period studied, as well as how the different people lived and worked during certain periods of our American development. This class will give the students a good understanding of the events surrounding the birth of our nation, as well as show them that they are created by God for a specific time,  place, and purpose in history. “He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist…Acts 17:26-28. The goal is for the students to be able to develop a deep gratitude to God for our unique nation, amazement for what people in history have been able to accomplish with the gifts He has given them, and a growing sense of responsibility that should be felt as they seek after Him and are willing to be used by Him to accomplish His purposes


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