Middle School
Why Families Consider BCD one the of Best Middle Schools in Boulder, Colorado
Voted Best Private School in Boulder, we are boldly unlocking students’ potential to ignite global change. The middle school years are full of self exploration, and we believe there’s no better support for students during these years than a BCD education.
When families search for the best middle school (6th - 8th grade) in Boulder, they are looking for more than strong academics. They want a school that balances challenge with support, fosters belonging, and prepares students for high school success. At Boulder Country Day, our IB Middle Years program does exactly that.
Academic Excellence
Academic excellence in BCD's middle school is grounded in a challenging, globally-minded curriculum that encourages students to think critically, solve complex problems, and make meaningful connections across subjects. As an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program school, BCD emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and real-world application, while strong offerings in languages (Spanish, French, and Latin), science, math, writing, and design help students develop both depth and breadth of knowledge. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure personalized attention, and students consistently achieve strong outcomes—whether benchmarking above peers in writing assessments or earning national recognition in world language exams. This academic foundation, paired with skills such as research, organization, and self-advocacy, prepares graduates to thrive in Honors, AP, and IB coursework in high school and beyond.
BCD is accredited by both the Association of Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS) and the National Association of Independent School (NAIS).
Curricular Spotlight: Model United Nations
Model United Nations are just one example. Students dive into global issues, conduct research, analyze data, and practice persuasive writing and public speaking—all while learning to see complex challenges through multiple perspectives. It’s rigorous, real-world learning that builds empathy and confidence at the same time.
85%
of Middle School students participate in BCD Athletics
100%
of 8th graders conduct a year-long Capstone Service Project
16
students is the average class size in Middle School
95%
of graduates enroll in Honors, AP, of IB classes in high school
BCD students outshine their peers in writing
More and more colleges, universities, and employers are reporting their incoming students lack the necessary writing skills. Our focus on planning, composition, and revision, the reflective process, and continual practice has shown to benchmark BCD students above their peers. The ERB Writing Assessment Program (WrAP) benchmarks our students against the most competitive independent and suburban public schools in the country and our scores speak for themselves.
BCD students rank nationally in world language
The National Associations of Language Teachers annual exam ranks students nationally. Students whose scores represent the top 20% nationally are recognized as National Laureates.
BCD 2024-25 results
French awards
Honorable Mention: 4 students
Bronze Medal: 2 students
Silver Medal: 3 students
Gold Medal: 1 students
Platinum Award (perfect score): 1 students
Spanish awards
Award of Excellence: 5 students
Honorable Mention: 1 student
Bronze Medal: 3 students
Latin Awards (only 8th grade competed)
Cum Laude: 2 students
Maxima Cum Laude: 3 students
Summa Cum Laude (perfect score): 1 student
BCD provides extensive math offerings
The following graphics displays the two most typical math tracks BCD offers. BCD is also able to offer small group acceleration beyond these tracks on a case-by-case basis.
Creating a Safe Environment
Every school should be a safe place for students and teachers to thrive, and we see safety as far more than just a secure campus. Students should also feel safe taking risks and being themselves. Daily advisory meetings strengthen community and help students work through topics such as navigating academic and social issues with confidence and kindness. Students are encouraged to develop the skill of “failing forward” and learning from one’s mistakes. Our focus is on the character of our graduates as much as their qualifications.
Exploratory Classes
All students receive instruction in the Arts, Physical and Health Education, Design, and World Languages, and have the choices in Athletics, Leadership, and Electives. BCD electives, also known as "exploratories", challenge students and create room for them to experiment and find new interests as they grow as students and as individuals. The combination of foundational academics with exploratories grows both intellect and self-confidence, which together lead to success in high school and beyond.
Fostering Future-Ready Innovators
Our middle school program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, innovation, and essential skills for an evolving world. Students develop strong problem-solving and creative application abilities through our Design & Innovation curriculum, progressing from foundational programming to advanced 3D modeling and independent coding for real-world solutions. Simultaneously, our science program builds robust inquiry and analytical skills, as students consistently practice experiment design, data analysis, and forming evidence-based conclusions, culminating in our juried Science Fair. These distinct programs empower students with the diverse capabilities and collaborative spirit needed to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
Unlocking Leadership Potential
Middle school spans the critical years between childhood and high school which can often feel like a waiting game for students. But in a PS-8th school, middle school students take on leadership roles, which provides them with valuable opportunities to develop their confidence and skills. These leadership experiences—whether through mentoring younger students, leading projects, or organizing school events—help students learn the importance of responsibility, decision-making, and collaboration.
Recognizing the Future Isn't Far Away
A strong academic foundation, combined with essential life skills, ensures that our students excel in high school and beyond. Under the guidance of skilled and experienced teachers, our graduates are well-prepared for success in any quality high school. They develop self-awareness, self-advocacy, and key study skills such as writing, research, organization, time management, and more—skills that are crucial for the transition to high school. As a result, most BCD graduates thrive in Advanced Placement and IB classes throughout their high school years.
Alumni Perspectives
Capstone
Class Size and Leadership
Academic Challenge
A Lasting Impact
Partnering with Parents
Parental involvement remains essential during the middle school years, a transformative stage of growth, independence, and identity formation. Together, we support students through open lines of communication and hosting regular Parent Education Series events. This collaboration helps students navigate increasingly complex academic expectations and social-emotional challenges. Our goal is to empower them to take greater ownership of their learning while ensuring they feel known, valued, and well-prepared for high school.
Parent Testimonials
"We visited a lot of middle schools, and whilst they were all fine, the thing that stood out the most about BCD was the genuine warmth within the school amongst both students and faculty.
Being Part of Something Bigger
Students are encouraged to explore their areas of interest through group activities such as choir, band, and athletics. Engaging in these activities helps students discover their passions and talents while fostering a sense of joy, personal fulfillment, belonging, and teamwork. As students explore different interests, they are better able to understand their strengths and passions, which is crucial in finding their place in the world.
Middle School Checklist
Middle School can be a challenging time for adolescents. Choosing the right school for your student during those years can have a big impact on who they become. Need some help determining what is most important to you and your child?
