Middle School at Holy Cross
Private, Christian middle school in Northeast Indianapolis for grades 6–8
Growing as Learners and Leaders
Middle school is a time of change. Students experience new challenges, ask deeper questions, and grow in independence.
At Holy Cross, we create a grace-filled space for students to grow.
Here, they’re known, encouraged, and challenged as they take on responsibility and discover who God made them to be.
What You Can Expect
Daily faith practices that shape identity and purpose
Advanced academics that prepare students for high school
Classes with teachers who understand and support each student
A balance of structure and flexibility
A culture that values leadership, service, and kindness
A caring community where middle schoolers feel safe to try, fail, and grow from every experience
Our Goals for Middle Schoolers
Take ownership of their learning and choices
Build strong habits for high school and beyond
Think critically, ask questions, and explore new ideas
Use their gifts to serve others and lead well
Stay rooted in God’s love through times of change
What Parents Say
“Holy Cross Middle School was so impactful for our children. It was more than strong academics—it was a place to grow intellectually and spiritually. Students develop character, kindness, and integrity. We’re grateful for all Holy Cross provided our family.”
Jennie Keller
Curriculum Highlights
Middle school students build on their foundation with deeper content and wider opportunities.
Bible & Faith
Daily devotions, required religion classes, weekly Chapel (grades 6-8, with a different message than the younger children), and monthly all-school Chapel
Language Arts
Literature, writing, research, vocabulary, grammar, and speaking
Math
Grade-level and advanced math pathways, including pre-algebra, algebra, and geometry
Science
Inquiry-based exploration of life, earth, and physical sciences with hands-on labs
Social Studies
U.S. history, world cultures, government, and economics
Foreign Language
Spanish
STEM
Problem solving, inquiry projects, and real-world connections
Electives
Cooking, drama, robotics, yearbook, leadership, mountain biking, and more
Fine Arts
Art, band, choir, pepband, and knitting
Technology
Digital tools, presentations, and responsible tech use
Wellness (Health and Physical Education)
Movement, fitness, and team sports
Faith
Middle schoolers go deeper in faith through daily devotions, religion class, and weekly middle school Chapel. Once a month, they join K–8th in Faith Families to connect across grades and grow together in God’s Word — a great leadership opportunity for our older students.
STEM
Students explore real-world problems through inquiry, experimentation, and teamwork. Whether they’re building robots or solving open-ended challenges, they learn to think critically and creatively.
Athletics
PE, team sports, and school activities help students build strength and perseverance. They learn to compete with character and sportsmanship.
Fine Arts
Middle schoolers express themselves through art, music, and performance. Whether it’s band, choir, jazz, or drama, students discover their creative voice and grow in confidence.
Meet the Teachers
Alicia Hodnett
Brittany Anderson
Candace McMullan
Cassie King
Dave Beringer
Katie Windes
Lisa Reisenleiter
Luke Riley
Sarah Derringer
Valerie Jaehnert
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades are included in Middle School?
Grades 6 through 8.
Do students have leadership opportunities?
Yes! Students serve as student ambassadors, lead faith families, help with morning announcements, greet and give school tours.
What’s Personal Growth Time?
Every student has a built-in time each day for organization, check-ins, and personal responsibility. Every student has a built-in time each day for organization, check-ins, and personal responsibility. It’s also a time when students can get extra help from teachers.
Do we need to be Lutheran to enroll?
While our teaching is Biblically-based and rooted in Lutheran Doctrine, we welcome families of every faith and background.
How do I apply?
Your first step is requesting more information! From there, our admissions team will walk you through every step. Check out our “How To Apply” page for more details.
Ready for What’s Next, Together
Middle schoolers are full of potential. At Holy Cross, we challenge them to push themselves academically and stay grounded in faith. We’d love to meet your student.