We know that no two students learn in the same way, so we individualize our program to help each student find success. In the classroom, teachers utilize creative approaches so that students not only learn conceptually but also learn how to learn effectively. Through our small class sizes, engaging teacher/student relationships, and genuine concern for each student, we emphasize social & emotional growth through personal relationships, academic excellence through critical thinking, and commitment to community through leadership and extra-curricular opportunities.
Classes are taught using different teaching techniques such as small-group discussions; lecturing/note-taking; or assigning and supervising collaborative, hands-on, independent study projects, all of which give students a well-rounded foundation upon which they can build successful futures.
Curriculum Overview
Sixth Grade
Sixth grade is a year full of creativity, curiosity, and endless opportunity. We have the pleasure of discovering ancient civilizations that ruled our Earth thousands of years ago and devouring literature that will expose us to complex and mesmerizing characters.
Students not only learn about the past but experience it through real-life simulations, cultural art projects, and drama. The annual Egyptian skit and Greek Wax Museum allow sixth graders to step back in time and transform into captivating historical figures!
Science allows us to discover ecosystems, renewable energy, and the structure of our Earth. Our annual field trip to the Pali Institute is where our students get to see their science textbook come to life while learning about astronomy, geology, ecology, and leadership through various hands-on activities!
Sixth grade mathematics is designed to be a bridge from elementary mathematics to more abstract mathematical reasoning. The mathematics curriculum is designed for students to hone their problem-solving skills and solidify the fundamentals necessary for pre-algebra and algebra.
Moreover, Sixth Grade is a year where students learn how to be independent thinkers and acquire the skills necessary to flourish and succeed throughout future school years.
Sixth Grade Academics
Language Arts
Sixth grade serves as an important bridge between elementary and middle school, giving students the opportunity to strengthen their academic skills while developing greater independence, confidence, and ownership of their learning. In English and Language Arts, students grow as readers, writers, speakers, and critical thinkers through a balance of explicit instruction, meaningful discussion, and creative exploration.
Using the Teachers College Reading and Writing program, students develop their skills through persuasive, informative, creative, and responsive writing. Mentor texts provide models of strong writing and give students tools and techniques they can apply to make their own writing more engaging, thoughtful, and sophisticated. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to take risks with their writing, discover their individual voices, and develop confidence in their abilities as writers.
Through whole-class mentor texts and book clubs, students learn to look beyond the surface of a story and think critically about what they read. They explore characterization, theme, symbolism, author's craft, and other literary elements, learning to support their ideas with thoughtful analysis and textual evidence. These experiences help students develop the habits of mind needed to become deeper readers, more analytical thinkers, and increasingly skilled writers.
Grammar, spelling, and vocabulary are integrated throughout each unit, while connections to science and social studies provide opportunities for students to apply their literacy skills across disciplines. Mentor texts and book club novels vary each year and are thoughtfully selected to reflect students’ interests and provide opportunities for meaningful exploration.
Ultimately, the goal of the sixth-grade program is to foster confident, independent readers, thinkers, and writers who are prepared to approach middle school with curiosity, creativity, and a strong belief in their own abilities.
Math
Sixth grade mathematics is designed to be a bridge from elementary mathematics to more abstract mathematical reasoning pertaining to the concepts of decimals, integers, fractions, and exponents. Students are introduced to algebraic equations and analyze graphs to solve problems involving rates and proportions. They deepen their understanding of geometric concepts and analyze statistical measurements for data sets. Students gain a complete body of math knowledge, not just a discrete set of skills, so they can comprehend the "why" behind the numbers and algorithms. The concepts are presented and explored through a combination of class examples, individual practice problems, small group oriented problem solving tasks, and projects.
Science
The middle school science program engages students in scientific practices as they experience, investigate, model, and explain phenomena while learning core ideas and engaging in concepts that cross disciplinary boundaries. Students build understanding by connecting ideas from lesson to lesson, from module to module, and across the middle grades. In 6th grade, students investigate four main questions: Why is weather so hard to predict?; How do humans impact the Earth?; What's going on inside of me?; Why do organisms look the way they do?
Social Studies
Sixth graders are introduced to ancient world history and study significant periods and civilizations that have shaped human society, including the Agricultural Revolution and the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. Students also examine the formation of Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism and explore their lasting contributions to the world.
Throughout the year, students are encouraged to think critically about history through different lenses and perspectives. They consider how factors such as culture, gender, social class, and race have influenced the development of civilizations, shaped people’s experiences, and affected the way history has been recorded and understood. By questioning, analyzing, and discussing the past from multiple perspectives, students develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of history and its connection to the world today.
In-depth simulations, hands-on projects, creative activities, and meaningful discussions allow students to step beyond the textbook and experience history in memorable ways.
Curricular Enrichment
The following subjects are integrated into the sixth grade schedule:
Spanish, Physical Education, Robotics, Visual and Performing Arts, Studio Art, Instrumental Music, Drama, Technology, Leadership, and Organizational Skills.
Outdoor Education
Sixth graders go on a trip to Pali Institute and visit the Getty Museum.
6th Blog
Our sixth grade class pitched their business ideas Shark Tank style! Each student came up with creative inventions and determined how much money they need to borrow from the “sharks” and how much equity of their company they were willing to give up. They had fun and learned about public speaking, entrepreneurship, valuations, equity, and more! Before their presentations, a former producer of Shark Tank, Ian Sambor, met with the class via Zoom to give advice and talk about the show!
6th Grade Sample Schedule
Seventh Grade
Middle school is a unique and exciting time of change. In the classroom, teachers utilize creative approaches so that students not only learn conceptually, but they also learn how to learn effectively. Through our small class sizes, engaging teacher/student relationships, and genuine concern for each student, we emphasize social and emotional growth through personal relationships, academic excellence through critical thinking, and commitment to community through leadership and extra-curricular opportunities. Classes are taught using different teaching techniques such as small-group discussions; lecturing/note-taking; or assigning and supervising collaborative, hands-on, independent study projects, all of which give students a well-rounded foundation upon which they can build successful futures.
We see Middle School as a great time of discovery. Our students are guided and supported to learn who they are and how they learn best. A healthy mix of academic challenges and personal growth opportunities keeps the students focused on reaching their personal best all the while being their best selves.
Seventh Grade Academics
Language Arts
Seventh grade builds upon the foundation established in sixth grade, further strengthening students’ skills as readers, writers, speakers, and critical thinkers. As students become more confident and independent, they are challenged to read with greater depth, develop more sophisticated ideas, and express those ideas with greater precision and purpose.
Classic texts such as Animal Farm provide opportunities for students to explore how literature can reflect society and examine complex ideas such as power, equality, individual responsibility, and the ways language can influence thought. Students learn to look beneath the surface of a text, consider multiple interpretations, and develop the kind of analytical thinking that allows them to read and write with increasing sophistication.
Grammar, spelling, and vocabulary are integrated throughout each unit, and mentor texts and book club novels vary for they are thoughtfully selected to engage students while challenging them to stretch their thinking.
The goal of the seventh-grade program is to cultivate confident, independent readers, thoughtful literary analysts, and capable writers who can develop, defend, and communicate their ideas with clarity and purpose. By deepening their ability to read critically, think analytically, and write with sophistication, students build the foundation they need to thrive in eighth grade and beyond.
Math
Seventh-grade Pre-Algebra helps students transition from basic mathematical skills to more abstract thinking and problem-solving. Students work with algebraic expressions, integers, equations, exponents, fractions, decimals, percentages, geometry, and data analysis through class instruction, individual practice, collaborative activities, and hands-on projects.
Students have two pathways for completing Pre-Algebra. Those ready for a faster pace may complete the full course in seventh grade and move on to Algebra in eighth grade. Students who benefit from additional time to develop and reinforce foundational skills may complete Pre-Algebra over two years, continuing the course through eighth grade. Both pathways provide a strong mathematical foundation and prepare students for success in future math courses.
Science
The middle school science program engages students in scientific practices as they experience, investigate, model, and explain phenomena while learning core ideas and engaging in concepts that cross disciplinary boundaries. Students build understanding by connecting ideas from lesson to lesson, from module to module, and across the middle grades. In 7th grade, students investigate four main questions and topics: What makes up Earth's natural resources?; How can old substances become new substances?; What do I have in common with planet Earth?; What can cause population change?
7th Grade Outdoor Education
Seventh graders go on a trip to WOLF Camp where they learn about leadership and team building.
Curricular Enrichment
The following subjects are integrated into the seventh grade weekly schedule:
Spanish, Physical Education, Coding, and Music
Electives:
Robotics, Visual and Performing Arts, Studio Art, Instrumental Music, Digital Game Design, Technology, Leadership, Digital Music Composition, and Computer Programming
Social Studies
Seventh graders continue their journey through ancient world history where the left off after 6th grade. We cover the rise and fall of ancient civilizations such as Rome, China, Japan, Aztec, Inca, Maya, Islam, Africa, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance era. Our seventh graders are also exposed to ancient lifestyles through simulations and many hands-on projects.
7th Grade Sample Schedule
Eighth Grade
Middle school is a unique and exciting time of change. In the classroom, teachers utilize creative approaches so that students not only learn conceptually, but they also learn how to learn effectively. Through our small class sizes, engaging teacher/student relationships, and genuine concern for each student, we emphasize social and emotional growth through personal relationships, academic excellence through critical thinking, and commitment to community through leadership and extra-curricular opportunities. Classes are taught using different teaching techniques such as small-group discussions; lecturing/note-taking; or assigning and supervising collaborative, hands-on, independent study projects, all of which give students a well-rounded foundation upon which they can build successful futures.
We see Middle School as a great time of discovery. Our students are guided and supported to learn who they are and how they learn best. A healthy mix of academic challenges and personal growth opportunities keeps the students focused on reaching their personal best all the while being their best selves.
Eighth Grade Academics
Language Arts
Eighth graders build English and language arts skills in the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Using the Teachers College Reading and Writing program, students are given a strong foundation in persuasive, informative, creative, and responsive writing assignments. There is an integration of grammar, spelling, and vocabulary skills in each unit as well as an interdisciplinary connection to the science and social studies curriculum. Mentor texts and book club novels vary each year and are selected according to students’ interests. It is the aim of this program to promote confident, independent readers, thinkers, and writers.
Math
Eighth-grade students have several math options available to accommodate a variety of skill levels and provide each student with an appropriate level of challenge. Courses range from Pre-Algebra and Algebra to Geometry, Algebra 2, and advanced coursework beyond Algebra 2 when appropriate. This flexibility allows students to continue building on their individual mathematical knowledge and progress at a pace that best supports their abilities. Throughout each course, students strengthen their problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and confidence while developing a strong foundation for future coursework. Instruction emphasizes both understanding mathematical concepts and applying those concepts in a variety of situations. With multiple course levels available, students are well prepared for the transition to high school.
Science
Eighth grade science consists of four units each incorporating life, physical, and earth science as well as engineering within each unit. Each unit contains many different phenomena for students to investigate, explain, or problem-solve through project-based learning in which students work in teams to tackle complex, real-world issues through rigorous, long-term projects.
Trips and Outdoor Education
The Eighth graders will embark on a couple of trips throughout the year. In the Fall, the students go to the Channel Islands National Park Sea Cave where there are the best coastlines for kayaking. In the Spring, the 8th graders finish the year with a trip to Washington D.C.
History
In this course, students will explore United States History following the Revolutionary War, examining the major events, people, and ideas that helped shape the nation. Topics will include the development of the new government, Westward Expansion, the Civil War and Reconstruction, World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II. Through class discussions, projects, primary sources, and other engaging activities, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills as they examine the social, cultural, political, and technological changes that transformed the United States. Students will also make connections between historical events and their lasting impact on American society today.
Curricular Enrichment
The following subjects are integrated into the eighth grade weekly schedule:
Spanish, Physical Education, Coding, and Music
Electives:
Robotics, Visual and Performing Arts, Studio Art, Instrumental Music, Digital Game Design, Technology, Leadership, Digital Music Composition, and Computer Programming
8th Grade Sample Schedule
Middle School Teachers
Mrs. Mahoney
Middle School Teacher &
6th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Teaching has brought an immeasurable amount of joy and happiness to my life for close to 25 years. I’m passionate about creating an environment where every student can grow, learn, and thrive. I especially love fostering a genuine love of reading and helping students discover the power of their own voice as writers. My goal is to build their confidence, encourage their creativity, and help them see themselves as capable readers and writers. I also believe learning extends far beyond the pages of a book, and I love bringing ancient civilizations to life through drama, music, art, hands-on activities, and other immersive experiences that make history meaningful and memorable. I love teaching at PHS and have had the opportunity to teach in both the Redondo Beach Unified and Palo Alto Unified School Districts. I hold a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and strive to be a lifelong learner, both professionally and personally. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, cooking, and attempting to improve my golf game, which I suspect will always be a work in progress!
Mr. Ahn
Middle School Teacher
In 1993, I began working as an associate teacher at Peninsula Heritage School. At that time, enrichment classes were introduced. Our former Head of School, Mrs. Cailler, and I taught enrichment Language Arts and Math respectively. I also offered tutoring sessions, ISEE test prep seminars, as well as after-school chess classes. I held this position for 11 years. After a decade of pursuing other endeavors, my heart led me back to PHS. I attended Marymount for a degree in Education but ultimately earned a Bachelor of Science from California State University of Long Beach in Electronic Engineering. Currently, I am the 8th Grade homeroom teacher.
In my free time, Lisa and I love raising our two PHS students, Kayden and Kylie. We enjoy traveling, camping, golfing, and fishing, as well as all that our beautiful South Bay has to offer.
Mrs. Judd
Middle School Teacher
Working with children and young adults has always been something I truly enjoy. Whether in the classroom or through coaching, I love helping students build confidence, discover what they are capable of, and find success in their own way. I believe each student brings their own strengths, challenges, and personality to the classroom, and I work to create lessons that are approachable, engaging, and meaningful while providing the support they need to be successful. Middle school brings so much growth and change, both academically and personally, and I feel fortunate to be able to support students through such an important time in their lives.
I was born and raised in the South Bay and earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Administration from California State University, Long Beach. Peninsula Heritage School has been a special part of my life for many years and was actually my very first place of employment right after high school! After spending several years coaching both club and high school volleyball, I moved into the medical field and worked as an Emergency Medical Technician. When I eventually found my way back home to PHS, I was able to bring that emergency response experience with me. I am an ALICE Certified Trainer, which allows me to help our school community prepare for and respond to emergencies through age-appropriate safety training and preparedness.
When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my husband, daughter, family, and friends. Some of my favorite things are family barbecues, outdoor games, trips to Palm Springs and the Kern River, and anything that involves sports. Whether I’m playing, watching, or cheering from the sidelines, I’m always up for a little friendly competition!
Mrs. Bañales
Language Arts Teacher
Watching my students thrive in the light of knowledge is one of my greatest joys. With over thirty years of experience in education, I still look forward with great anticipation to every September and the promise it brings. Giving my students opportunities to expand their skill acquisition through creative alternatives, while maintaining a high academic standard, is my constant endeavor in the classroom. My objectives are simple: inspire, explore possibilities, and employ acquired knowledge with joy and vigor. I possess a great love for the arts and pride myself in my ability to incorporate my talents within our academic curriculum. Continually striving to challenge myself, I expect no less from my students.
After receiving my education from Cal State Long Beach, I have taught in both public and private school settings; instructing children from preschool through sixth grade. In addition to my formal education, I regularly attend conferences to study and execute differentiated instruction practices within the classroom.
In addition to teaching, I enjoy all that life has to offer. “History vacations,” attending the theatre, communing with nature, reading, and utilizing my creative talents are all activities that nurture my well-being.
Ms. Lichfield
Science Teacher
One of my greatest joys as an educator is helping students turn their curiosity about the world into questions, discoveries, and a deeper understanding of how it works. I believe curiosity is the foundation of learning; when students are encouraged to ask questions, form hypotheses, and test their own ideas, they develop not only knowledge, but also confidence in their ability to discover and problem-solve. In my classroom, curiosity is the compass, exploration is the path, and experimentation is the tool. I strive to create a space where students can experience the “magic” of science through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. By connecting scientific concepts to the wonder of everyday life, I hope to inspire students to look at the world with a sense of excitement and possibility. As Albert Einstein once said, “I have no special talents; I am only passionately curious;” a sentiment that captures the heart of my teaching.
I am in my third year at Peninsula Heritage School and my second year as the Middle School Science Lab Teacher, while also serving as the 6th Grade Associate. Before joining PHS, I taught writing at the university level while completing my B.A. and M.A. in English Literature at TCU. Although my academic background is rooted in literature, my lifelong love of science has always been an important part of who I am as an educator. From studying biology and participating in Science Olympiad to my continued fascination with the history of medicine, I have always been drawn to understanding how—and why—the world works. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading (often several books at once), solving puzzles, horseback riding, playing pickleball, and spending time with my dogs. For me, curiosity is the spark—and fire is catching!
Mrs. Tarakji
Math Teacher
I am the 6th Grade Math and 8th Grade Geometry teacher. My teaching philosophy is simple: every student can learn math! Students may learn at different paces and in different ways, but with patience, practice, effort, and support, every student can grow and succeed.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Architecture, a master’s degree in Business Administration, and a California Single Subject Credential in Foundational-Level Mathematics from CSUDH. Before becoming a teacher, I worked in financial management, where I discovered how much I enjoyed mentoring others and making complex ideas easier to understand. Teaching felt like a natural next step.
I feel fortunate to be part of the PHS Middle School team and am passionate about helping students build a strong mathematical foundation for success in high school and beyond.
Outside of school, I enjoy reading, sci-fi shows, playing pickleball with my husband, and traveling abroad.
Mrs. Behrens
Algebra Teacher
Following a wonderful childhood in Erie, Pennsylvania, I have spent most of my adult life in Palos Verdes. After earning a bachelor of science in business administration from Northwestern University, I continued with MBA courses while working at a major Chicago bank. The arrival of our four daughters and the move to California preceded my entry into the private school world. In addition to being part of a great administrative team as Director of Advancement at PHS, I also enjoy teaching algebra or geometry to our 8th graders, using the mathematics knowledge and training from my collegiate undergraduate and graduate courses. In the community, I am active in the Palos Verde Peninsula Rotary Club, The Circle of the Palos Verdes Art Center, and my church. I hold a graduate-level certification from UCLA in college admissions counseling and enjoy my extended family, researching our genealogy, reading biographies and histories, traveling abroad, and following professional golf and college football!
Ms. Allen
Spanish Teacher
My name is Adeline Allen and I feel extremely grateful to have the role of teaching Spanish at PHS. I am a Los Angeles native and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Go Badgers!) to pursue a degree in Communication Arts and Spanish language. While in college I decided to go even further from home and study at the Complutense University of Madrid. I fell in love with the country and the culture so I decided to return to Spain after college to pursue my passion of teaching. I taught English at Collegi Lestonnac Tarragona to students ages one to fourteen. I returned home to California to teach First and Third Grade in San Jose. I have been at PHS for three years now and have loved absolutely every minute of it. I am constantly learning from my students and my coworkers. When I’m not teaching you can find me tasting foods and seeing other parts of the world - my latest endeavors took me to Greece! When I’m home I am always outside soaking up sun or spending time with my adorable pup!
Mr. Miller
Music Teacher
I was first exposed to music because my parents and other influential people encouraged me to try every instrument I could get my hands on, eventually finding out which instruments worked well for me. That's why music at PHS is a "hands-on" experience!
I received my B.A. in Music at Cal State Dominguez Hills and my B.S. in Organizational Leadership at Biola University. I joined PHS as a Music Teacher in 2006 and have loved every year of sharing the joy of music with these wonderful students.
Mr. Lechuga
Coding Teacher
I began working at Peninsula Heritage School in 2017 as an IT Associate. I have since become the Director of Technology and now teach 7th grade Geometry and 8th grade Algebra II, and have also taught Algebra I and Pre-Algebra.
Prior to working at PHS, I worked as a Computer Technician for PVPUSD for 4 years.
Teaching and working with technology is always fun and interesting, but also I enjoy spending my time at home with my wife Keelin and our 2 dogs. We love traveling and experiencing the wonderful variety of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes around the world. I also love to hike, visit friends and family, listen to music, and watch sports and movies.