Middle School
Join our Middle School Community
Collage Day School’s Middle School program is designed to bridge the gap between childhood and young adulthood through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Students in grades 6–8 are given the freedom and independence to explore who they are, discover their passions, and begin to define what they want to become.
Our approach extends beyond the classroom, connecting students with real-world companies, professionals, and projects that encourage them to think critically, solve problems, and collaborate just as they would in the workplace. Through project-based learning and exposure to authentic work scenarios, students develop confidence, leadership, and communication skills that prepare them for success in high school and beyond.
Equally important, middle schoolers are empowered to take an active role in shaping our vibrant school culture, giving back through community involvement, peer mentorship, and campus initiatives that foster responsibility and pride.
At Collage, middle school isn’t just preparation for what comes next—it’s a time to explore, contribute, and grow into the person each student is meant to be.
Collage Day School
Dynamic Curriculum
Collage customizes our curriculum and teaching methods to foster innovation and respond dynamically to student needs.
Mission-Driven Goals
Collage prides itself on being mission-driven, prioritizing the quality of education and our students experience over profit.
Autonomy for Leadership
At Collage, leadership has the autonomy to make decisions that directly benefit their students, teachers, and community.
Community Involvement
Collage actively participate in and contribute to the local community, strengthening our reputation and relationships.
Investing in Education
Collage has, and will always continue to reinvest directly into our school, ensuring funds benefit students, teachers, and families.
Franchise Schools
Standardized Curriculum
Franchise schools often adhere to a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum mandated by the franchise. This limits flexibility to tailor programs to student needs.
Profit-Driven Goals
Franchise schools may prioritize profitability, which can result in cost-cutting that affect teacher salaries, resources, or extracurricular activities
Limited Autonomy for Leadership
School directors and staff in a franchise model may have limited decision-making power, as corporate policies and procedures dictate operations.
Limited Community Involvement
Franchise schools may not have the flexibility or initiative to engage with the local community through events, partnerships, or philanthropy.
Upfront / Ongoing Franchise Fees
Franchise schools allocate significant funds toward franchise fees and royalties, which could otherwise be invested in students, teachers, and families.
Academics & Curriculum
Curriculum Focus
Academic standards are based on the State of Florida B.E.S.T. Standards for general education students, including English Language Arts and Mathematics. Other core subjects are uniquely covered in a cross-curricular manner by engaging in inquiry-based learning inside and outside of the classroom:
- Social Science topics include: Geography, Economics, American History, World History, Civics and Government, and Financial Literacy
- Science topics include: Life Science, Physical Science, Earth and Space, Nature of Science
- Health Education and Physical Education
- Experiential study of the fine arts such as dance, theatre, music, and art appreciation
Our Approach
The Middle School program and curriculum are designed to offer students the opportunity to experience learning inside and outside of the classroom. Curriculum units are designed to engage students in research and critical thinking about essential pieces of the history and culture of our country and our world.
Students are engaged in inquiry-based learning that helps them consider multiple facets of a topic that typically involve cross-curricular standards such as history, science, and current events. Students process what they learn and answer questions or prompts that require critical thinking about the subject matter. Projects require students to use the core knowledge and skills they gain in the areas of English language arts and math.
Inquiry-based learning opportunities include travel to relevant sites and community involvement that help shape critical thinking skills, while also providing hands-on, first-hand experiences that broaden student thinking. Our students are working on becoming knowledgeable and conscientious citizens in an ever-changing society.
Middle School Course Examples
At Collage Day School, middle schoolers engage in project-based, cross-disciplinary learning that connects academic subjects to the real world.
Each course is guided by an essential question, encouraging students to explore complex ideas through research, writing, fieldwork, and collaboration. Here are some examples and highlights of our Middle School programming:
The Earth and Conservation
Content Areas: Language Arts, History, Science
Essential Question: What responsibility do people today have for the history and ecology of their city as well as the protection of surrounding natural land features?
Details
Students explore the history of conservation areas within our county and examine how local efforts connect to broader ecological sustainability. Through research and fieldwork, they study the geomorphology of the Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve, analyze conservation initiatives over time, and explore adaptations across biomes. Using fiction and nonfiction texts, students express their learning through creative, expository, and research writing.
Civilizations from Ancient to Modern
Content Areas: Language Arts, History, Science, Social Studies
Essential Question: How has civilization changed from ancient times to the modern world, and what factors contribute to advancement?
Details
Students trace human progress from the 18th century to the present, focusing on technological, educational, and social developments that shaped today’s societies. By examining the Human Development Index and migration patterns, students gain insight into industrialization and global inequalities, comparing “First World” nations with the world’s Least Developed Countries.
Leadership and Change
Content Areas: Language Arts, History, Social Studies
Essential Question: What are citizens’ rights and responsibilities in relation to local, state, and federal government?
Details
Students explore how leadership shapes communities and governance. Through case studies of civic success and failure, they examine how laws are made, how government structures function, and how leadership impacts social outcomes. Students identify a current local or national issue, craft persuasive essays, and write to a government official to advocate for change.
Additional Inquiry-Based Learning Projects Include:
- Creating a Community Perspective
- Animal Planet: Preserving Animal Populations
- Business and Finance
- Explorations in Science
- Holocaust Education
Your Child Is In An Accredited School
Collage Day School is a fully accredited educational institution, proudly holding accreditations from the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA) through the Accrediting Commission for Schools, APPLE (Accreditation for Private and Parochial Schools in Florida).
These accreditations reflect the school’s commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and adherence to rigorous national standards in private education.
Through these recognitions, Collage Day School demonstrates its dedication to providing a high-quality, student-centered learning environment that supports both academic and personal growth.
What is the Admissions Process at Collage Day School?
Families who are interested in applying to our program should begin the process as early as possible. Collage Day School offers a rolling admissions process and will offer open positions until each program is full for the school year.
Step 1: Inquire & Visit
We invite you to tour our campus so that you will have a personal connection to Collage’s teachers, curriculum and learning environment. We often find that your experience on a tour will help tell our story better than any other form of communication.
During your initial visit, our Head of Admissions will talk with you about your child and your expectations. This informal discussion allows us to understand more about your family, your own educational philosophies and your child’s needs, unique abilities, and personality.
You can schedule a tour online, or call our office for assistance. Please note that all prospective families are required to tour our campus prior to applying. Both virtual and onsite tours are available.
Step 2: Apply
Once you have decided that Collage is a good fit for your family, our being able to offer you a space depends upon our current availability and your preferred start date.
Our Infant programs are typically full and we maintain a waiting list. Enrollment priority is given to currently enrolled families seeking placement for another child.
Step 3: Enrollment
We will reach out to you when a space becomes available or once re-enrollment season ends for our current families.
If you choose to accept placement, you will be required to pay both an Application Fee and an Enrollment Fee. All enrollment is online via our FACTS Portal.
Step 4: First Day
Prior to your student’s first day, you will have the opportunity to schedule a “Meet The Teacher” Session where you will have the opportunity to introduce yourself to your child’s teacher.
In addition, the teacher will review the daily schedule, provide you with a supply list, and answer any questions you have related to classroom expectations and procedures.
Step 5: Tuition
Inquire About Middle School Tuition
Florida School Choice Scholarships
On Monday, March 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1, also known as the Florida School Choice Bill. This new law will benefit all K-12 students in Florida, taking effect on July 1st, 2023. Under the new law, all families with kindergarten through 12th grade children can apply to be awarded an average of $7,700 per student to help pay tuition for private schools.
It is crucial to remember that although your child may be eligible for these scholarships, it is up to you as the parent to take the necessary steps to apply for funding. We urge you to apply to Step Up for Students and provide our school with any necessary documentation to enroll your student(s) in the scholarship program. Your family will save several thousands of dollars by taking advantage of this opportunity. We will provide you with more information as it becomes available.
Florida Students With Unique Abilities
The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) gives families of PK3-12 students a choice of financial assistance toward private school tuition and fees, tutoring, and additional costs. Children with one of 23 diagnoses including, but not limited to emotional, behavioral or intellectual disabilities are eligible to apply.
Notice to parents enrolling students under the FES-UA scholarship: Please note that our school accommodates students with disabilities in accordance with federal and local law. However, your child may not receive the types of accommodations or related services that your child may be entitled to receive at a public school as public schools have different obligations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IDEA does not apply to private schools. We are happy to have a conversation with you about the accommodations that your child may need and receive at our school.
Who is Eligible?
- Students 3 years old to high school graduation or age 22, whichever comes first
- Children with one of 23 diagnoses including, but not limited to: autism spectrum disorder, emotional, behavioral or intellectual disabilities, and rare diseases
What is Available?
A scholarship worth on average $10,400 to cover the cost of private school tuition, instructional materials, home education, tutoring and additional costs.
Dress Code Policy
At Collage Day School, our Middle School students follow a unified dress code that encourages confidence, focus, and school pride. A consistent appearance helps minimize distractions, builds a sense of community, and reinforces that learning is our shared priority each day.
All approved school uniform items can be conveniently ordered through Lands’ End, our exclusive uniform provider. Please note that Lands’ End (online) is currently the only place to purchase approved Collage uniforms, and orders may take 6–8 weeks to ship, so families are encouraged to order early.
Collage uniforms are designed to be both comfortable and professional, allowing students to move freely while maintaining a polished, cohesive look that represents our school’s values.
When ordering, be sure to visit Collage Day School’s official Lands’ End shop to ensure all items meet current dress code requirements.
Where to Order:
Lands’ End School Uniforms
(Use Collage Day School’s preferred school number when prompted – 900187840)
Casual Fridays
Fridays at Collage Day School are a time to show a little extra spirit! Students may wear Collage-branded T-shirts or spirit wear with jeans or uniform bottoms. While the look is more relaxed, we still ask that clothing be clean, neat, and school-appropriate.
Casual Fridays are a fun way for students to celebrate their school pride while enjoying a comfortable end to a productive week of learning.
Middle School Supply Lists
Coming Soon…
Kindergarten - 1st Grade
PLEASE LABEL THE FOLLOWING WITH YOUR CHILD'S NAME:
- 1 pair of headphones
- 2 primary composition notebooks
- 2 plastic pocket folders 1 red and 1 green
- 1 plastic pencil box
- 1 pair of Fiskars 5-inch scissors
- 14×6 family picture without a Frame
- 1 pair of rubber boots for TimberNook
- 1 bottle of bug spray for TimberNook
- 1 Large T-Shirt for art smock
- 1 Backpack
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS DO NOT NEED TO BE LABELED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME:
- 2 wide ruled composition notebooks
- 1 pack of 8.5×11 copy paper
- 1 package of laminating pouches
- 1 Box of #2 Ticonderoga pencils
- 1 pack of highlighters
- 2 boxes of Crayola washable markers
- 3 boxes of Crayola crayons 24 count
- 1 package of thin expo dry-erase markers
- 1 package of fine tip sharpie markers
- 1 package of unscented baby wipes
- 1 1 inch three ring binder
- 1 pack of 3 Clorox wipes
- 1 pack of unscented baby wipes
- 2 boxes of tissues
- 1 box of quart sized Ziploc bags
- 1 box of gallon zip loc bag
- 12 pack purple Elmer’s glue stick
- 1 pack of 3×5 white index cards
- 1 pack of three ring dividers for binders
- 1 pack of assorted post it notes
- 2 bottles of Elmer’s Glue
2nd Grade
PLEASE LABEL THE FOLLOWING WITH YOUR CHILD'S NAME:
- 1 pair of headphones
- 2 wide ruled spiral notebooks
- 2 plastic pocket folders with prongs I red and 1 green
- 1 family picture with no frame
- 1 pair of rubber boots for TimberNook
- 1 bottle of bug spray for TimberNook
- 1 white t-shirt for art smock
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS DO NOT NEED TO BE LABELED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME:
- 1 pair of child scissors
- 2 wide ruled composition notebooks
- 1 three-ring white binder with clear pocket cover
- 1 package of laminating pouches
- 2 boxes of #2 Ticonderoga sharpened pencils
- 1 pack of highlighters
- 2 packages of latex free erasers
- 1 packaged of wide ruled lined paper
- 2 boxes of 24 pack of Crayola crayons
- 1 package of thin dry erasers
- 1 package of large dry erasers
- 1 set of Crayola watercolor paint set 8 colors
- 2 packs of Clorox wipes
- 1 box of facial tissues
- 4 purple dry clear Elmer’s glue sticks
- 1 bottle of school Elmer’s Glue
- 1 pack of 3×5 index cards
- 1 pack of black sharpies
- 1 box of sandwich Ziploc bags
- 1 box of gallon Ziploc storage bags
3rd - 5th Grade
PLEASE LABEL THE FOLLOWING WITH YOUR CHILD'S NAME:
- 1 pair of headphones
- 1 plastic or fabric pencil cases
- 1 4×5 family picture without a frame
- 1 pair of rubber boots for TimberNook
- 1 bug spray for TimberNook
- 1 white t-shirt for art smock
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS DO NOT NEED TO BE LABELED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME:
- 4 wide ruled composition notebooks
- 3 spiral single subject notebooks
- 3 plastic pocket folders
- 1 three-ring white binder with clear pocket cover
- 1 package of laminating pouches
- 2 boxes of #2 Ticonderoga sharpened pencils
- 1 pack of highlighters
- 2 packages of latex free erasers
- 1 packaged of wide ruled lined paper
- 2 boxes of 24 pack of Crayola crayons
- 1 package of thin dry erasers
- 1 package of large dry erasers
- 1 set of Crayola watercolor paint set 8 colors
- 2 packs of Clorox wipes
- 1 box of facial tissues
- 4 purple dry clear Elmer’s glue sticks
- 1 bottle of school Elmer’s Glue
- 1 pack of 3×5 index cards
- 1 pack of black sharpies
- 1 box of sandwich Ziploc bags
- 1 box of gallon Ziploc storage bags
Schedule Your Collage Tour Experience
New student families begin their journey at Collage with a personalized Tour Experience. This is your opportunity to explore our campus, meet our faculty, and see firsthand what makes our community special. We look forward to welcoming you!