How Do Middle School Teachers Support My Child at SFCA?

Have you ever thought about how much influence a teacher can have on your child’s middle school experience?

The best middle schools with good teachers do more than just deliver lessons — they create an environment where students feel supported, inspired, and understood.

Imagine a quiet sixth-grader who once dreaded speaking up in class. With the right teacher’s encouragement, they found their voice as they led discussions and presented with confidence. That’s the power of a supportive, inspiring school community.

At Southwest Florida Christian Academy, we’ve built our middle school program to address the challenges parents like you care about the most. We prioritize a safe, Christ-centered environment where teachers ensure that:

  • Kindness and accountability are non-negotiable.
  • Bullying and negative influences are not tolerated.
  • A loving atmosphere helps students grow in their faith.
  • Students feel genuinely happy in their learning experience.

Whether you’re part of the SFCA family or considering us for the first time, imagine the difference caring, dedicated teachers can make in your child’s middle school journey. In this article, hear our middle school team speak on creating a supportive environment for students and give tips to guide parents through this pivotal stage.

Find out more:

Community
Character
Confidence

Let’s talk about community.

What are some specific ways you strive to make each student feel seen and valued?

Building Relationships, One Greeting at a Time

“Our teachers greet students at the door to start each day or period,” shares Lezlie Nassef, Middle School Counselor. “This small but intentional gesture sets a welcoming tone and helps our students feel valued.” Teachers also prioritize one-on-one conversations, using routines to build trust and show students they matter.

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Small Groups, Big Impact

Monthly Impact Groups offer students a chance to connect in small settings. “We have spaces where students can share, pray, and feel supported,” says Marci Hendrix, Middle School Academic and Behavior Support Specialist. Teacher-led clubs, such as the Chess Club, Book Club, Board Game Club, New Believers Bible Study Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Student Leadership Academy, further strengthen these bonds by bringing students together over shared interests.

Showing Up Beyond the Classroom

“Our teachers take the time to attend plays, sports events, and even baptisms,” says Andy Duncan, Middle School Lead Teacher. “It shows students we care about their lives beyond academics.”

Prayer also plays a vital role. “We pray for students and with them, whether it’s in class or during moments when they’re struggling. It opens doors to meaningful conversations,” Andy adds. Teachers are also sensitive to students who may be reluctant to share, recognizing those moments as opportunities to follow up later and provide thoughtful support.

Parent Tip: Encouraging Openness and Involvement

Encourage your child to engage in clubs, athletics, or leadership roles to build connections and a sense of belonging. Help them feel comfortable sharing personal challenges with teachers, as this honesty allows teachers to provide better support. By fostering involvement, you’re partnering with SFCA to help your child thrive.

Did you know?

93%

of our middle school students participate in extracurricular activities, fostering a community where everyone can explore their interests and grow beyond the classroom.

Inquire today to see how we build connections that matter!

Let’s talk about character.

How do you help students navigate the social and emotional challenges they may face during middle school?

Navigating Big Emotions with Care

Middle school comes with complex emotions, and SFCA teachers are ready to help students navigate them. “We provide ‘Cool Down Time’ when students feel overwhelmed, offering a moment to regroup and talk through their feelings,” explains Lezlie. With an open-door policy, teachers create safe spaces for students to share and feel supported.

Spotting Red Flags Early

Teachers also stay alert to students’ emotional well-being. “Whether it’s small talk in the hallway or offering encouragement, these moments help me spot and address red flags early,” shares Andy. By acting quickly, teachers provide timely guidance to help students manage challenges and stay on track.

Parent Tip: Balancing Grace, Boundaries, and Community

Middle schoolers thrive with a balance of grace, structure, and consistent expectations at home. They need clear boundaries, extra love, and parents who guide rather than befriend. Surrounding them with healthy adults, such as those in a Bible-believing church, and partnering with SFCA creates a strong foundation for their success.

Mrs. Stiling has shown us the meaning of the Bible in a way that we can understand it so much better. Her teaching methods, like having us make the Biblical timeline, have helped us understand more about the Bible than we ever have before. We are learning how it applies to our life too.”

– Camila Pina and Tatian Picon, SFCA Students

See how SFCA creates a safe space for students to thrive.

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Let’s talk about confidence.

Can you share an example of a time when you encouraged a student to grow beyond their comfort zone?

Fostering Confidence in the Classroom

Andy recalls working with a sixth-grader who struggled with self-doubt during quizzes and tests. “She was continuously frustrated, doubting herself at every turn,” he shares. 

By encouraging her to trust the process — study, complete the assessment, and move forward — she gradually built confidence. “Now, she’s thriving, not just on assessments but in how she interacts with others in and out of the classroom.”

Finding Success in Unexpected Places

Lezlie worked with a student who initially felt frustrated about not getting into a preferred class. “She was in choir and was very upset at first,” she explains. “But with time, support, and encouragement, she’s now excelling.” Moments like these remind students that growth often comes from overcoming disappointment and finding joy in new opportunities.

Balancing Academics and Exploration

Marci highlights how middle schoolers can grow by trying new things. “One student balanced academics while playing soccer for the first time, and it was incredible to see how much confidence they gained.” 

She also points to unique opportunities like the Family Consumer Science course. “Cooking and sewing may not be typical middle school subjects, but seeing students discover their abilities is really rewarding.”

Parent Tip: Building Faith and Resilience

Start a simple Bible reading plan with your child to model the importance of Scripture and spark meaningful conversations. Be open to their questions, showing it’s okay to learn together.

Encourage them to try new things, even if they fail. Support their efforts and teach them to stick with their commitments.

Empowering Middle Schoolers in a Christ-Centered Community

Perhaps you’re asking, “What should I look for in a middle school teacher?” Our teachers combine Christ-centered values and expertise to help students build community, develop character, and grow in confidence. Take the next step today to learn more about middle school at SFCA.

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