Middle School Curriculum

A curriculum to challenge and support middle school students

A fresh, student-focused approach to virtual learning

New Code Academy teachers combine their knowledge of the unique needs of adolescent learners, the best practices of engaging online learning and the Minnesota Academic Standards to create a one-of-a-kind school experience for our students.  

Students use the resources available at their fingertips to experience multiple perspectives, access local and global experts and authors, go on virtual field trips and more. New Code Academy students learn by doing. Week to week, this might be creating a DNA model, participating in a book club, writing an email to a student pen pal in Japan, or making a clay sculpture.   

Academic exploration drives the student experience

At New Code Academy, middle school students will benefit from the full range of traditional coursework, paired with the unique learning experience in computer science. From astronomy choice projects to surrealism digital collages, middle school students participate in core subject areas, as well as P.E., music, health and art.

Computer science adds another layer at New Code Academy as students learn the skills of creative problem solvers. Each year, students will have two quarters of computer science, as well as integrated themes in health and art electives. The design thinking process is also woven across all the disciplines.

  • Transferable thinking skills include pattern recognition, debugging and perseverance
  • Early exposure to computer science increases participation for groups currently underrepresented in CS and STEM professions
  • Computer science helps learners express themselves with creativity, solve problems they care about and create new and fun innovations

 The New Code Academy curriculum meets Minnesota Academic Standards

At New Code Academy, state standards are met through lessons that challenge learners to explore new ideas, solve problems, think critically and engage with the people and world around them. Students meet rigorous standards in each of the following content areas:

  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Physical Education
  • Music
  • Visual Arts
  • Health
  • Computer Science