Atlanta’s oldest Catholic secondary school, Marist School is committed to unlocking each student’s God-given greatness. The Foundations program, designed for 7th and 8th graders, combines rigorous academics, community-building experiences, and spiritual development to prepare students for success in high school and beyond, equipping them to make a positive impact on the world.

Recognizing that middle schoolers are at a unique stage—academically, socially, and emotionally—the Foundations program bridges the gap between elementary and high school. The Foundations program makes this critical transition smoother and more enriching. Marist’s Foundations teachers understand the developmental stages of middle schoolers and work to help them build confidence, resilience, and independence.

The Marist Foundations program for middle schoolers offers:

• Greater academic challenge with a broad curriculum, including a trimester system that allows for more electives and exploration. 
• Comprehensive student support, including a dedicated personal and academic counselor, resources from the Marist Academic Center, and skill-building programs that set students up for success.
• Over 60 activities and clubs for middle schoolers, including Robotics, Debate Team, Entrepreneur Club, and Marist Broadcasting Club, encouraging students to explore their interests.
• A strong sense of community through a House system, peer leadership, and campus ministry retreats, which fully incorporate 7th and 8th graders into the larger Marist community.

Marist’s Foundations program encourages students to explore new interests, take risks, and discover their passions. In the classroom, students benefit from a technology-rich academic environment that fosters creative and critical thinking. Outside the classroom, a variety of extracurricular activities allows them to try new things, form friendships, and develop leadership skills.

Rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and the spirit of the Society of Mary, Marist is an inclusive community welcoming all faiths. From daily prayer and all-school Masses to retreats and community service, students are given opportunities to reflect on their spirituality and deepen their sense of service to others. Foundations students participate in service projects that foster empathy, civic responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Whether leading service projects, participating in sports, or engaging in arts programming, students build the skills and values they will need for future success. They can join a wide variety of athletic teams that prepare them for high school-level competition and help them become strong teammates and leaders. Middle school fine arts programs also lay the foundation for essential skills, giving students the chance to explore creative expression in innovative ways.

One of the cornerstones of the Foundations experience is the House system, which provides students with a consistent support network throughout middle school. Each student is randomly assigned to a House upon entering 7th grade and remains with that group through 8th grade. Led by a male and female faculty House Leader, these small communities foster strong relationships among peers and provide a touchstone for students during these formative years.

“Teachers meet students where they are, helping them learn to succeed and—just as importantly—to fail and recover independently, all while providing the support needed to foster their growth,” says Assistant Principal and Director of Foundations Molly Carlin. “The House system allows students to experience a nurturing small community within the larger Marist community, helping us instill the values of a future Marist graduate.”

A highlight of the 7th and 8th grade experience at Marist is the Foundations Winter Games, a lively event designed to promote camaraderie and healthy competition among Houses. Peer leaders—upperclassmen trained to mentor new students—also play a key role in helping Foundations students feel welcomed and supported. They greet new students, answer questions, and offer encouragement throughout their first year at Marist.

At Marist, every student is cared for as an individual with unique God-given gifts. The Foundations program helps middle schoolers discover their potential, preparing them to confidently take on the challenges of high school and beyond.