GEM MIDDLE SCHOOL
Our project-based, purpose-driven learning environment for 6th to 8th graders has a curriculum that blend rigorous academics with project based learning as well as design, ethical reflection, and real-world skills allowing each child to flourish.
By focusing on intellectual curiosity, deep critical thinking, self-directed learning, academic mastery, collaboration, and real-world problem solving—all grounded in growth mindset—one develops conscientious leaders ready to thrive.
Our Approach
Cultivating Leaders. Inspiring Innovators. This is not your typical school! Every school day is structured for deep learning and personal growth.
Core Learning Labs
Math, English, Science, and Social Studies - Harnessing personalized, mastery-based learning, students work through material at an optimized pace—closing gaps, building depth, and fostering intellectual confidence in just 2–3 focused hours.
Skill-Building Workshops
Weekly rotations in entrepreneurial mindset, communication, and collaboration give way to self-driven passion exploration—whether in robotics, film, civic action, or creative writing.
Project Studio
In the afternoon, learners tackle real-world challenges in collaborative settings—designing eco-solutions, creating community apps, or launching mini-enterprises that enhance critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
Coaching & Reflection
Our Guides—coaches more than teachers—support students through weekly mentor sessions and reflection cycles, nurturing self-awareness, resilience, and a growth mindset.
REAL BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS:
✔️ Character & Coaching: Ethics and purpose are central to everything we do. Using the School of Character framework, students engage in structured self-reflection, justice journaling, and peer dialogue.
✔️ Academic Excellence: Students deepen comprehension and achieve at advanced levels.
✔️ Powerful Critical Thinking: Tackling open-ended, authentic problems builds reasoning, creativity, and analytical mindsets.
✔️ Emotionally Strong & Empathetic: Coaching fosters self-direction, empathy, and ethical decision-making.
✔️ Ready for Tomorrow: Through teamwork, communication, and life skills, students emerge adaptable—ready for high school and beyond.
Students, with theIr Guides help, set goals, reflect on effort, and grow in empathy, accountability and leadership.
We don't grade character - We grow it!
Our School. Our Community. Our Responsibility.
📅 A Day in the Life at GEM
- Morning “Mastery Lab” (90–120 mins): Individualized, AI-enhanced academic sessions supported by Guides.
- Team‑Based Inquiry: Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects (e.g. robotics, civic action, documentary).
- Showcase & Reflect: Students present work, receive feedback, and reflect—reinforcing intellectual growth.
- Workshop/Passion Hour: Rotating workshops in communication, leadership, financial literacy, and more.
- Passion Block: Deep dive time for personal creative or service-driven projects.
🛠 Why It Works
AI‑powered, mastery‑based learning lets students absorb core subjects at their pace—but at GEM we go further with deep project immersion and strong community ties.
Research shows that together, personalized instruction and project-based learning drive greater engagement, higher achievement, and improved leadership and collaboration skills.
Stay for the Future
From Middle School to College-Ready Pathways
We’re building a seamless bridge from middle school to high school and beyond. In collaboration with Collin College and GEM High School initiatives, students will have the opportunity to fast-track their education, earning college credit and even an associate’s degree while still in high school.
Families can trust that GEM is a long-term investment in your child’s success.
FAQs
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the program with our team, feel free to click "Talk to us" and a member of our team will be in touch with you shorly.
$1000 $850 per month – First Year Promotion
$1000 from Fall 2026
$150 Application Fee
$500 Annual Resource Fee
Yes, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where all children can thrive.
Scholarships are available on a case-by-case basis (30%-100%), taking into consideration factors such as household income, family size, and extenuating circumstances as per the Federal Financial Aid Guidelines.
How to apply financial aid?
Click "Apply for Financial Aid" button below
Our dedicated Financial Aid Team will carefully review your application & supporting documents and notify you of the aid decision in 3-5 business days.
Academic Year of 2025-2026
Start Date: August 12, 2025
End Date: May 22, 2026
Days: Monday to Friday
Time: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Dismissal Time: 2:45 pm - 3:00 pm
Class Calendar: We follow Plano ISD Calendar.
GEM Academy is located at 6300 Independence Pkwy, Suite A, Plano, TX 75023
Yes, to arrange a tour, click on "Talk to us" and request a tour. A member of our team will reach out shortly.
Every child is a GEM
We believe that every child is a gem, each with their own unique qualities, talents, and potential. Just like gems, they come in every shape and size, and it's our privilege to provide the care and guidance they need to shine brilliantly.
