Middle School

Overview

RMCA's Middle School serves grades 6-8, providing students with a glimpse of the high school experience while maintaining a supportive, smaller school environment. The curriculum expands to include more course offerings, electives, and a wider range of extracurricular activities and events.

Middle School Student Clubs

S2S (Student to Student), Student Council,

NJHS (National Junior Honor Society),

Chess Club, Art Club, Drama Club,

SWAT Club (Students Working Against Tobacco).

Middle School Field Trips

International Towne (6th Grade)

Walk DC Trip (8th Grade)

Skate City (Quarterly Order Winners)

6TH GRADE

English: Comprehension & Response, Writing to Audience, Writing to Analyze, Narrative Writing, Informative/Explanatory Writing, Persuasive Writing
World History and Geography: World Geography, Lasting Ideas from Ancient Civilizations, The Enlightenment, The French Revolution, Romanticism, Industrialism, Capitalism, and Socialism, Latin American Independence Movements
American History: Immigration, Industrialization, and Urbanization, Reform
Mathematics: Ratios and Proportional Relationships, The Number System, Expressions and Equations, Geometry, Statistics and Probability
Science: Light and Matter, Thermal Energy, Weather, Climate and Water Cycling, Plate Tectonics, Natural Hazards, Cells and Systems

7TH GRADE
English: Comprehension & Response, Writing to Audience, Writing to Analyze, Narrative Writing, Informative/Explanatory Writing, Persuasive Writing, Fiction, Non Fiction & Drama, Poetry, Foreign Phrases commonly used in English
History and Geography: Early Americans and First Europeans, European Exploration and Colonization of the Americas, The Revolutionary War, Creating a Constitution, The New Republic, Westward Expansion, The Civil War, Immigration, Industrialization, and Urbanization, Social Movements, World War 1, The Twenties and Great Depression, World War II, Postwar America
Mathematics: Ratios and Proportional Relationships, The Number System, Expressions and Equations, Geometry, Statistics and Probability
Science: Chemical Reactions and Matter, Chemical Reactions and Energy, Metabolic Reactions, Matter Cycling and Photosynthesis

8TH GRADE

English: Comprehension & Response, Writing to Audience, Writing to Analyze, Narrative Writing, Informative/Explanatory Writing, Persuasive Writing, Fiction, Non Fiction & Drama, Poetry, Foreign Phrases commonly used in English
History and Geography: Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt and Kush, The Israelites, The Ancient Greeks and Greek Civilization, Ancient India, Early China, Rome, Islamic Civilizations, Maya, Inca and Aztec Civilizations, Imperial China, Renaissance and Reformation, Exploration, Trade, and Settlement, Europe and Russia in the Middle Ages, West African Kingdoms, World War II and the Postwar World, East and South East Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Latin America
Mathematics: The Number System, Expressions and Equations, Functions, Geometry, Statistics and Probability
Science: Contact Forces, Sound Waves, Forces at a Distance, Earth in Space, Genetics, Natural Selection And Common Ancestry

The Core Knowledge Sequence is a detailed outline of specific content and skills to be taught in language arts, history, geography, mathematics, science, and the fine arts. As the core of a school’s curriculum, it is intended to provide a coherent, content specific foundation of learning, while allowing flexibility to meet local needs.

Our Middle School Team

Instructional Coach (4th-8th)

Crystal Bubick

Hi! I am Crystal Bubick, honored to be one of the Instructional Coaches here at RMCA. Not only am I blessed with a beautiful family, a wonderful husband, and daughters who inspire me every day, but I also have the privilege of working with some amazing students and dedicated educators. I am so grateful for our RMCA community. Go Knights! I have three degrees from the University of Denver and have been in education for almost two decades. Colorado is my home. The mountains are my backyard. When I am not at RMCA, you will find me exploring the Rocky Mountains, taking in the symphony of the beautiful Colorado skies, adventuring with my tribe, and chasing sunshine and water.

English/Literature Teacher (7th-8th), Middle School Team Lead

Hilary Calvert

I’ve been at RMCA since 2016 and taught 5th grade for seven years before moving up to teach middle school English in 2023. Prior to working at RMCA I worked as a 3rd grade para in District 20 and spent a year running a before and after school program for District 49. I earned my bachelor’s degree in English and education from the University of Northern Colorado in 2011. I completed my master’s degree in Library Science in 2015 from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. This fall, I’m hoping to begin another master’s degree in educational leadership at Western Governors University. I spend a lot of time hanging out with my family. I am the oldest of 5 kids. Two of my siblings are married and I have three sweet nephews and one niece (on the way). Even though I grew up in Colorado Springs, I was born in Wisconsin. My family and I are HUGE Green Bay Packer fans. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, reading, taking care of my many houseplants, yoga, and doing arts and craft projects. My favorite subjects are grammar, literature, and history.

Teacher Assistant (4th-8th)

Jennifer Cuna

Hello my name is Jennifer Cuna. This is my second year working as a Teacher Assistant, and I truly enjoy being part of the RMCA family . I’m a Colorado native and would never leave this beautiful place. Ive been married to my amazing husband for 14 years. I am a proud mom of three. My oldest daughter will be graduating in May with her nursing degree, my middle daughter is in college pursuing a teaching degree, and my youngest son is in eighth grade here at RMCA. When I’m not running my own business or working at the school, I love spending time with my husband and kids. Especially nights and weekends at a baseball field with my son. In my free time, I enjoy crafting, reading, and of course, coffee!!

History Teacher (6th-7th)

Olivia Dixon

Hello! My name is Mrs. Dixon, and I’m excited to continue teaching history this year at Rocky Mountain Classical Academy. Some of you may remember me as Ms. Kruse—I recently got married, and I’m now thrilled to start this new chapter as Mrs. Dixon! I love teaching history because it’s full of real people, meaningful events, and stories that help us better understand how we got to where we are today. In our classroom, we’ll explore the past through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, writing, and creative projects that bring history to life. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog, Piper, who we love to spoil every chance we get. I also enjoy reading, exploring new places, and spending time with family and friends. I can’t wait for us to dive into the past together—because history isn’t just something we learn, it’s something we experience! Get ready for a fun and fascinating journey through time!

History Teacher (7th-8th)

Haylee Downs

Hello! I’m Mrs. Downs, and I’m excited to be your history teacher this year! This is my sixth year in education and my third year at RMCA. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a Middle School Social Studies emphasis from BYU–Idaho in 2017. I’ve taught middle school social studies, 3rd grade, 5th grade, and K–6 STEAM. My husband, Steve, and I have been married for 10 years. We moved to Colorado six years ago and love calling it home. Our three children attend RMCA as elementary students, and we feel blessed to be part of this school community. I believe students thrive when teachers and parents work as a team. My goal is to help students understand the story of humanity, appreciate our nation’s history and freedoms, and develop skills that will serve them for life. I look forward to a fantastic year of learning together!

Assistant Principal (4th-8th)

Tanner Humphrey

Hello, my name is Tanner Humphrey, and I am the Assistant Principal over 4th-8th grade classes. This will be my 9th year at RMCA, and I have been everything from a PE teacher, Athletic Director, Dean of Students, to my current role now as Assistant Principal. This is my second year as an Assistant Principal, but my first year overseeing the Middle School. My Wife and I met in college and have been married for 8 years. We have two boys whom we love and adore so much. My oldest is named Hayes, who is 3 yrs old, and the youngest is named Hank, who was born in May of 2025. I get to bring both boys to work with me every day as they attend the RMCA daycare, and I am beyond blessed for this opportunity. I love RMCA and all of the students and families within it. If you ever need any help or assistance, please know you are always welcome to reach out to me directly, as I would love to help you!

Science Teacher (7th-8th)

David Kagarise

David Kagarise is a graduate of Mitchell High School (1983) and has been teaching since 2008. He spent ten years at James Irwin Charter High School (2008–2018), where he taught Computer Science, Science, Math, and Physical Education, and also served as the varsity softball coach from 2012–2018. From 2018–2025, he continued his teaching career at Sierra High School before joining RMCA. In addition to his classroom experience, Mr. Kagarise has been extensively involved in athletics. He has officiated high school football and basketball, umpired youth baseball and adult slow-pitch softball, and most recently served as the head coach of a Sierra D2 Middle School football team in 2024. He is the proud father of three adult children: Jonas (28), Brittany (26), and Nicholas (25). Brittany currently serves in the United States Navy, while Jonas and Nicholas are pursuing their college degrees. Mr. Kagarise is honored to bring his experience and passion for teaching to RMCA and is very excited to be part of the community.

English/Literature Teacher (6th - 7th)

Catherine Knott

Hi, I'm Catie Knott! This is my fourth year in 6th and 7th grade English at RMCA and my 6th year teaching overall. I love building relationships with students and watching them grow and mature throughout the year. I enjoy cooking, running, coffee, and of course, spending time with my husband and one-year-old son. I'm excited to make this a great school year!

Dean of Students (5th-8th)

LaDonna Lattimore

Hello! My name is LaDonna Lattimore and I served in the Air Force for 20 years and I am now happily retired. This is my 1st year at RMCA as the Middle School Resource teacher, and my 3rd year working as a Special Education teacher, but I have taught for 8 years in the military. I love the Lord and I love traveling. My passion is teaching and empowering kids and I look forward to working with teachers and administrators this year.

Math Teacher (6th-7th)

Kristen McKelvy

My name is Kristen Mckelvy. I currently teach math and have been an educator for 6 years. I enjoy spending time with my family. I also enjoy golf, cooking and crafts in my free time.

Math Teacher (7th-8th)

Christine Ogden

Greetings! My name is Christine Ogden. This will be my second year teaching 7/8 Math, and my 4th year here at RMCA. I received my Bachelor's of Science in Chemistry from UCCS but I really love math! I have a wonderful husband and two amazing children who attend RMCA. As a family we spend a lot of our summers camping and riding ATV's. I am so excited to see how far we can help your kids go in math this year!

Science Teacher (6th-7th)

Alicia Rhodes

Hello! My name is Alicia Rhodes, and I am truly honored to be part of the RMCA Middle School team this year. This marks my sixth year in education and my third year at RMCA. I am deeply committed to partnering with our families and community to create a nurturing, engaging, and hands-on learning environment for all students. Originally from Spokane, Washington, my journey with the United States Air Force brought me to beautiful Colorado—a place my family and I are grateful to call home. I am also the proud mom of two wonderful children. Nothing brings me greater joy than watching students thrive—growing in confidence, curiosity, and capability. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to continue teaching your students. Here’s to another incredible year of learning, growth, and community!

Teacher Assistant (K-8th)

Lisa Robbins

Hi, my name is Lisa Robbins. I’m starting my 5th year working at RMCA. I’ve lived in Colorado for 25 years. I was raised in Iowa, but later moved to Colorado to attend Fort Lewis College in Durango. I’ve been married to my amazing husband, Justin, for 19 years. Our two sons attend RMCA. Our oldest son is starting middle school and our youngest son is entering 5th grade. In my free time I enjoy having lunch with friends, reading, and watching my sons play baseball.

Counselor (4th-8th)

Madison Shrum

Hello! My name is Madison Shrum, and this is my second year at RMCA. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and am currently in my final semester of graduate school where I am earning my Master’s Degree in School Counseling, both from Adams State University. When I’m not at RMCA or working on my own school work, I love to cook, read, and hike. I’m originally from Southern California, and I moved to Colorado Springs a little over a year ago with my husband, Jarrett, and have loved every minute of it. I’m looking forward to a great school year and the opportunity to support your students!

Middle School Encore