Middle School

Building Leadership Skills

Students in Middle School build the leadership skills outlined in the five outcomes and engage in authentic real-world opportunities for impact through Social Impact-designated courses, Social Impact clubs, leadership opportunities, and class projects. Each grade level offers a rigorous course connecting academics to real-world application and problem-solving. Each Middle School student experiences multiple opportunities to develop leadership skills and explore their purpose through our various programs throughout the year. 

Laura Day, Director of Innovation and Collaboration

“Giving students a challenge and then using curriculum and real-world field trips to help build empathy and solve the problems deepens learning."

Five Outcomes

List of 5 frequently asked questions.

  • Advocacy Skills

    Advocacy skills are the tools we equip our students with. It's about teaching them to articulate their beliefs, champion causes they are passionate about, and create positive change through persuasive communication. We nurture adept advocates for their community.

  • Empathy

    Empathy is the heart of our program. It's about fostering a deep understanding and genuine care for the diverse perspectives and experiences of others. We believe that by connecting on a human level, we can drive positive change in our communities and beyond.

  • Purpose

    Purpose is the driving force behind our program. It's the clarity and determination to find one's unique role in addressing societal challenges and what a student values. Our goal is to help students discover their passions and connect them to a profound sense of purpose, empowering them to make a lasting impact.

  • Real-World Experience

    We firmly believe that the best learning happens beyond the classroom. Through internships, community service, and hands-on projects, we provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience, preparing them for life's challenges.

  • Designing Solutions

    The program is about fostering critical and creative thinking. We empower students to analyze complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and turn their ideas into impactful initiatives that address pressing social issues. It's about translating vision into action.

Social Impact By Grade

List of 4 items.

  • Fifth Grade

    Theme: Homelessness
    Course: World Geography

  • Sixth Grade

    Theme: Water
    Course: English

  • Seventh Grade

    Theme: Food Access
    Course: Science

  • Eighth Grade

    Theme: Community Engagement
    Course: English

Middle School Social Impact in Action

List of 3 news stories.

  • Middle School Financial Literacy

    Upper School students in the Financial Literacy & Economic Concepts class recently met with Middle School students who are preparing for the Middle School Bazaar to talk about how to find a unique value proposition, how to figure out a price point, and how to break even or make a profit. 
    Read More

  • Middle School Problem Solving

    Middle School Student Council is working together to solve an issue at school – how to help students leave the dining hall less messy after lunch! 
    Read More

  • Microgreens for Good

    Eighth Grade students have been growing microgreens in science class as part of their investigation of Earth’s biosphere and ecosystems.
    Read More

The Hockaday School

11600 Welch Road
Dallas, TX 75229
(214) 363-6311
Within the private school community, The Hockaday School is an independent college-preparatory day school for girls from grades PK–12 located in Dallas, Texas. Students realize their limitless potential through challenging academic curricula, arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs so that they are inspired to lead lives of purpose and impact.

The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational, admissions, financial aid, athletic, and other policies and programs.