Middle School - 11/6
Middle School Update - November 6, 2025
Principal's Note
As we head into Parent-Teacher Conferences this week, I want to thank you for the important role you play in partnering with us to support student growth. The conversations that are held between teacher and parent are vastly important and allow us to celebrate academic progress, address areas for student growth and development, and strengthen the partnership between home and Maranatha. When teachers and parents work together for the good of our students, it can leave them encouraged, challenged, and positioned to flourish in all areas of their life.
We are looking forward to seeing you soon!
Upcoming Conferences - November 6–7
As a reminder, Middle School Conferences will take place in the cafeteria and do not require advance sign-ups. During this time, parents will have the opportunity to meet with all of their child’s classroom teachers, so please plan enough time to connect with each one.
Please see below for additional details about our middle school conferences.
7th Grade Field Trip to the Guthrie
Our 7th grade students will be participating in a field trip tying in the learning happening in their English class. The field trip will take place on Thursday, November 13th, at the Guthrie Theater, and students will be viewing a live performance of “A Christmas Carol”. We ask that students be dressed for the theater and practice proper theater etiquette.
8th Grade Field Trip to Zero Gravity
In partnership with our middle school student council, our 8th graders will take a community-building grade-level trip to Zero Gravity Trampoline Park on Thursday, November 13, from 8:30-11:30. This field trip is a great opportunity to build community, celebrate our students’ hard work throughout the first quarter of the school year, and continue building strong relationships as we move forward throughout the school year.
MCA Theater Presents: The Hobbit
Performance Dates Nov 13–15
Come join us and meet Bilbo Baggins, a quiet and careful Hobbit who loves his cozy home—until one day, he’s asked to go on a wild adventure to help recover a stolen treasure. At first, Bilbo wants nothing to do with it, but he soon finds himself facing dragons, trolls, and all kinds of surprises. Along the way, he discovers courage he never knew he had. This journey doesn’t just change Bilbo—it helps all of Middle Earth! Don’t miss this tale full of fun, friendship, and adventure!
Tickets for The Hobbit: https://bit.ly/43uUNGS
Please note: These performances will take place at Living Word Northwest: 10925 Trail Haven Road, Rogers, MN.
Blessings,
Allen Banks
Middle School Principal
Mustang Moments - Classroom Connection
Mr. Bennett's recent science lesson included a demonstration for our Physical Science students in 8th grade on the nature of matter and the transition from liquid to gas.
This experiment had students hypothesizing what would happen when heated liquid in an aluminum can came into contact with ice cold water. What do you think happened?
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences are an important part of our shared commitment to student growth. This time together allows parents and teachers to celebrate progress, discuss areas for continued development, and strengthen the partnership that supports your child’s learning experience at Maranatha. When teachers and parents are aligned, our students can truly flourish.
We are so thankful for the partnership and investment you make in helping your child grow both academically and spiritually.
As a reminder, Middle School Conferences will take place in the cafeteria and do not require advance sign-ups. During this time, parents will have the opportunity to meet with all of their child’s classroom teachers. Please plan enough time to connect with each teacher.
Parents will rotate from teacher to teacher as they become available. If a teacher has a line, you are welcome to visit another teacher while you wait. Each conference should be limited to about 10 minutes to ensure that all families have the opportunity to meet with teachers. If additional time is needed for discussion, please schedule a follow-up meeting with that teacher.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
National Junior Honors Society Members
Congratulations to our newest inductees into the National Junior Honor Society. The induction ceremony took place on Monday, November 3, where we recognize students who have demonstrated excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. We are proud of the way these students represent our middle school community and the mission of Maranatha Christian Academy.
Chapel Recap 11/4
One of our seniors, Nolan Schneider, gave his testimony and gave all the glory to Christ for his transformation. He boldly proclaimed that MCA was a key vessel for the change that took place in his heart. Seeing the seniors lead chapel was bittersweet as this is their last year with us. It reminds us to treasure each moment in our lives!
Dress Code Reminder
We want to begin by thanking the many students who consistently follow our dress code expectations each day — your commitment to upholding our school standards is truly appreciated.
However, we are continuing to see an increase in dress code violations, particularly with items such as sweatpants, non-MCA sweatshirts, jackets, and other out of dress code bottoms worn Monday–Thursday, which are not part of the approved dress code. As a result, beginning Monday, our Upper School administration team will be conducting periodic dress code checks in classrooms.
To ensure clarity, the following consequences will be in place for students who are out of dress code:
- 1st offense: Verbal warning
- 2nd offense: Lunch reflection and a parent phone call
- 3rd offense: The student will be held out of class until they are in proper dress code (in-school suspension until corrected)
Parents, we ask for your support in helping your student come to school in compliance with our dress code each day. Please take a moment this weekend to review expectations together and ensure that your student is prepared for a successful week ahead.
As a reminder, here is a link to our dress code requirements
Dress Code | Maranatha Christian Academy
If students are not sure if something is in dress code, please have them bring the item separately and ask their teacher or administration for clarification on whether the item is in dress code or not.
Thank you for partnering with us!
Counselor Connection
Upcoming Middle School Events
The Hobbit Fall Theater Production: November 13–15
7th Grade Field Trip to the Guthrie: November 13
8th Grade Field Trip to Zero Gravity: November 13
Thanksgiving Break/No School: November 26–28
Looking Ahead:
NWEA Winter Testing: December 8–12
Christmas Break: December 20–January 4