WAVES: Impacting the World for His Glory

A Middle School Program with Purpose

WAVES is our intentional, Christ-centered service initiative designed to help students grow as disciples, develop compassion, and live out their faith in meaningful, tangible ways. Beginning in 5th grade and continuing through 8th grade, students engage in hands-on, relational service experiences that shape both their character and their understanding of God’s call on their lives.

Through WAVES, students discover their spiritual gifts, exercise their faith, and learn to use their unique talents for His glory—all while building critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Creating Ripples Across Every Discipline

WAVES is woven throughout the student experience, integrating:

  • Collaborative learning
  • Hands-on experiences
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Service with integrity and purpose

Each experience is designed to move beyond the classroom, helping students connect what they learn to who they are becoming.

Waves in Action

5th Grade: Waves of Compassion

Our 5th graders are introduced to the heart of service through building relationships with seniors in our local community. Through WAVES our students:

  • Learn how to introduce themselves and engage in meaningful conversation
  • Participate in shared activities such as games, music, and crafts
  • Create cards and gifts for the seniors for holiday or other celebrations
  • Develop empathy, confidence, and respect for older generations

This year, students formed genuine connections—laughing, listening, and learning alongside seniors—often discovering that what begins as service quickly becomes something deeply personal and impactful.

“Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.” – Psalm 145:4

6th Grade: Waves of Service

In 6th grade, students begin to identify their spiritual gifts and apply them through a year-long partnership with Jubilee Reach. Through WAVES, our students:

  • Discover their personal strengths and spiritual gifts
  • Collaborate with peers to serve in aligned ways
  • Engage with community leaders
  • Plan and carry out meaningful service projects

Through this partnership, students begin to see how their individual gifts can make a real difference in the lives of others.

“Through love serve one another.” – Galatians 5:13-14

7th Grade: Waves of Kindness (Program Growth Ahead)

As this program expands, 7th graders will grow in leadership and empathy by serving those who serve others in our community. Through WAVES, our students will:

  • Mentor younger students in WAVES
  • Organize appreciation efforts for community helpers
  • Develop a deeper understanding of service-centered vocations

“Use your gifts to serve one another.” – 1 Peter 4:10

8th Grade: Waves of Change (Program Growth Ahead)

In their culminating WAVES experience, 8th graders will design and implement a personalized service project aligned with their passions and calling. Through WAVES, our students will:

  • Identify a local or global organization
  • Develop and present a service plan
  • Communicate with organizational leaders
  • Execute and reflect on their project

This capstone experience empowers students to take ownership of their faith in action.

“As you did it to one of the least of these…you did it to me.” – Matthew 25:40

A Night of Reflection (Launching Next Year)

Each year, WAVES will culminate in a special Night of Reflection, where students share their experiences and growth with our community.

  • 5th–7th grade students present their projects in an interactive showcase
  • 8th grade students deliver more formal presentations

This evening is a powerful celebration of how God is working in and through our students.

A Growing Vision

WAVES is a program in motion. While our 5th and 6th grade experiences are already making a meaningful impact, our 7th and 8th grade initiatives will continue to expand in the coming years—deepening opportunities for leadership, ownership, and lasting service.

We are excited to see how God will continue to use these experiences to shape students who not only understand their faith—but live it boldly.