SOAR & Middle School Retreats
At Eastside Christian School, some of the most meaningful moments of spiritual growth happen outside the traditional classroom. Through SOAR and our Middle School retreat experiences, students are given intentional opportunities to ask questions, build authentic relationships, reflect on their faith, and create memories that will stay with them long after they leave ECS.
SOAR – Spiritual Observations And Reflections
SOAR is our weekly small-group discipleship program designed specifically for Middle School students. Every Friday, students gather in grade/gender-specific groups hosted by a Middle School teacher. These groups create a consistent space where students are known, encouraged, and challenged in their walk with Christ.
Each SOAR group is unique because it reflects the personality of its host teacher and students. Some weeks begin with a Scripture passage, others center around thoughtful discussion, reflection, prayer, or real-life questions students are navigating. As the year progresses, students are also encouraged to take ownership by helping lead conversations, facilitating Bible studies, or sharing what God has been teaching them.
Middle School Retreats
Retreats have become some of the most anticipated experiences of the Middle School year. Each retreat is intentionally designed to strengthen relationships, encourage spiritual growth, and create unforgettable memories as students grow together.
Fall Retreat (Grades 6–8)
Held during the first month of school, our Fall Retreat serves as the official kickoff to the Middle School year. Students spend two days together building friendships, participating in team challenges, worshipping together, and establishing the culture that will define the months ahead. For our incoming sixth graders, it’s an opportunity to become part of the Middle School community. For returning seventh and eighth graders, it’s their first chance to embrace their new roles as leaders. The retreat also serves as students’ introduction to their ACTS Groups, helping launch the discipleship relationships that continue throughout the year.
Epic EdVenture (Grades 7–8)
Each February, our seventh and eighth grade students embark on the Epic EdVenture, an unforgettable educational experience that brings classroom learning to life. Our destination alternates each year between two incredible trips. Students may travel to Kentucky to experience the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, exploring biblical history and apologetics firsthand. In alternating years, students travel to Washington, D.C., where they visit our nation’s most significant historical landmarks alongside the Museum of the Bible, connecting American history with the story of Scripture in meaningful ways. These trips challenge students to expand their understanding of history, strengthen friendships, and deepen their faith through immersive, hands-on learning.
8th Grade Retreat
As the school year draws to a close, our graduating class participates in one of ECS’s favorite traditions: the 8th Grade Retreat. Designed as both a celebration and a send-off, this retreat gives students one final opportunity to enjoy time together before beginning high school. Each year includes a surprise adventure chosen with input from the class, with past retreats featuring destinations like Topgolf, Family Fun Center, and Sky Zone. Students spend Thursday evening together at school, sharing meals, playing games, reflecting on their time at ECS, and enjoying one last overnight with classmates before wrapping up the experience on Friday. For many students, the 8th Grade Retreat becomes one of the defining memories of their Middle School experience. It is a joyful celebration of friendships, growth, and the exciting season that lies ahead.