Curriculum
Preschool to Middle School
Library
Library
The library is an essential part of our school community, supporting both academic growth and personal development. It provides a welcoming space where students can explore, collaborate, and access a wide range of resources that enrich their learning experience. By teaching essential library skills, we empower students to engage in independent inquiry, make thoughtful choices about the materials they read, and explore a variety of genres. The library fosters a love of reading while also nurturing critical thinking, digital literacy, and creative expression. As readers, writers, and responsible digital citizens, students use the library to deepen their understanding of the world and themselves.
MS-Drama
MS-Drama
Middle school students have the freedom to explore a drama-based elective, submit a film to Film Prize Jr, or follow their own theatre interests. Our school has a proud history of winning awards at Film Prize Jr and is equipped with its own film studio to support student creativity. Seventh and eighth graders can also choose to participate in our winter musical. For students who prefer not to perform on stage, there are meaningful ways to contribute behind the scenes through set design, sound, lighting, costume, and makeup.
MS-Advisory
MS-Advisory
Our advisory program is centered around the Fly Five Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum, which helps students develop important life skills. Each day, students spend the first 15 minutes of advisory focused on an SEL lesson designed to build self-awareness, empathy, and positive relationships. In addition, students participate in two extended 45-minute advisory sessions each month to deepen these skills and engage in meaningful activities.
The goal of our advisory program is to nurture confident learners who demonstrate strong character and are prepared to succeed
MS-Enrichments
MS-Enrichments
At Southfield School, middle school students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of enrichment courses designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and encourage creativity. These offerings allow students to pursue areas of personal interest while discovering new passions along the way.
One cherished Southfield School tradition is the 8th-grade baby portrait project. Each student creates an artistic interpretation of their baby photo, which is then proudly displayed in the school. This meaningful project not only showcases student talent but also marks their growth through middle school.
Enrichment options vary each year and by quarter, providing unique opportunities for students to try something new. Past offerings have included newspaper, business, filmmaking, watercolor, clay, technical theatre, and directed study hall. Our dedicated faculty bring energy and expertise to these classes, creating a supportive space where students can take risks, express themselves, and truly blossom.
MS-High School Transitions
MS-High School Transitions
At Southfield School, our 8th graders are thoughtfully supported as they navigate the high school transition process. Planning begins in the spring of their 7th grade year with a dedicated high school transition meeting to help families understand timelines, requirements, and available options. In the fall of 8th grade, students participate in a High School Forum, where they hear directly from teachers, current students, and administrators from a variety of area high schools.
Students are also encouraged to attend high school open houses and take advantage of shadowing opportunities to help them make informed decisions. Throughout the process, we ensure each student receives the necessary documents and guidance to confidently apply and enroll in the next step of their educational journey. Our goal is to empower students and families with information during this important transition.
MS-Spanish
MS-Spanish
Spanish instruction, led by a native speaker, is part of every middle school student’s experience. Our 5th and 6th grade students take Spanish for one quarter each year, providing early exposure to the language. In 7th and 8th grade, students build on this foundation with daily Spanish classes. Instruction is guided by the Realidades curriculum and enriched with topical and culturally relevant materials.
Students have the opportunity to earn high school credit for Spanish I and Spanish II by demonstrating proficiency through an online assessment or a portfolio submission.
MS-Math
MS-Math
Our middle school math program is structured to meet the needs of all students. Our 5th and 6th grade students complete grade-level math using the Illustrative Math curriculum, with IXL integrated to reinforce and build additional skills. In 7th grade, students take Pre-Algebra, while 8th graders choose between Pathways to Algebra or Algebra.
For students seeking an additional challenge, our ACE math program offers an accelerated track where students complete Pre-Algebra in 6th grade, Algebra in 7th grade, and Algebra II in 8th grade. Students enrolled in the ACE program have the opportunity to earn high school credit for both Algebra and Algebra II.
MS-Science
MS-Science
Students in grades 5 through 8 use StemScopes, an innovative curriculum aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). StemScopes emphasizes inquiry-based learning and hands-on activities that encourage students to explore scientific concepts deeply and develop critical thinking skills. Through interactive lessons, experiments, and real-world applications, students build a strong foundation in STEM subjects.
In 8th grade, students take Physical Science, a course that offers high school credit. This class continues to build on the skills and knowledge gained in earlier grades, preparing students for future science coursework while giving them a head start on their high school science requirements.
MS-English
MS-English
In middle school, 5th grade English Language Arts meets for two periods each day, providing students with ample time to develop strong reading and writing skills. The curriculum incorporates Being a Reader and Being a Writer, which focus on building foundational literacy through engaging texts and writing projects.
For grades 6 through 8, ELA instruction includes novel studies, daily grammar practice, and a variety of supplemental writing programs to support student growth. Writing instruction in 7th and 8th grade is guided by the Jane Shaffer method, which emphasizes clarity, organization, and effective communication. Throughout all grades, students are encouraged to develop a love of reading.
Additionally, students in grades 5 through 8 visit the library weekly, where they receive further instruction on research skills and online literacy, supporting their ability to navigate and evaluate information in today’s digital world.
MS-Social Studies
MS-Social Studies
The social studies curriculum is designed to build knowledge year by year. Fifth graders study World Geography, gaining an understanding of the physical and cultural landscapes around the globe. Sixth graders explore World History, learning about key events and civilizations that have shaped our world. Seventh grade focuses on U.S. History, providing students with a foundation in the nation’s past and its development. In eighth grade, students study Louisiana History. To bring this history to life, 8th graders participate in a field trip visiting many of the significant sites studied in class.
Throughout their social studies experience, students engage with a variety of resources, including primary documents, films, historical novels, IXL, and more, fostering a deep understanding of the subjects. Students complete research projects that deepen their insight.
MS-Physical Education
MS-Physical Education
All middle school students participate in PE four times a week. Our PE coaches lead students through a variety of team sports, games, and individual fitness activities, helping them develop athletic skills, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for health and wellness.
Our Mission
Experience Southfield School, a priceless investment in your child’s future. At Southfield, our talented and experienced faculty cultivate curiosity, character, kindness, and a lifelong love of learning. Our secure environment surrounds the whole child on a journey through a challenging curriculum resulting in exceptional young scholars with self confidence and integrity