In the Middle With You

Is This Normal?: Social Emotional Edition

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Is this normal? Should I be concerned? Is this just part of middle school?" Join Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler for week two of our three-part series created especially for middle school parents. In this episode, we dive into the social and emotional norms of adolescence, exploring the changes students commonly experience in their emotions, friendships, identity, and growing independence. Our hope is that this conversation will help you better understand what's happening beneath the surface, while encouraging, validating, and equipping you to confidently support your middle schooler through these formative years. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

Is This Normal?: Behavior Edition

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Is this typical? Is this normal? Is this developmentally appropriate?" You're not alone! Join Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler as they kick off a three-week series designed specifically with middle school parents in mind. In this first episode, we explore the behavioral norms that are common during the middle school years, helping you better understand what your child may be experiencing. Our hope is that this series will encourage you, validate what you're seeing at home, and equip you with practical insight as you navigate this unique and important season of parenting. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

A Window into Oaks Christian School Culture 

Join Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler for a new episode of In the Middle With You as we introduce two foundational tools that will help shape the culture of our school this year: our Culture Playbook and the DISC Profile. In this episode, we provide an overview of what these frameworks are, why they matter, and how they'll influence the way students grow in character, relationships, and self-awareness throughout the year. Our hope is to give you, as parents, a window into what your students are learning and experiencing so you can continue those conversations at home. As always, we begin each episode with updates from around our school community! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

All You Need To Know: First Day of School Edition

Join hosts Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler for the first episode of In the Middle With You as we kick off a brand-new school year! In this episode, we'll cover important first-day-of-school logistics, share the heart and purpose behind the podcast, and introduce the Student Life team that will be walking alongside your family this year. Whether you're new to middle school or a returning family, we hope you'll tune in for practical information, encouragement, and a glimpse into what makes our school community so special. Be sure to subscribe and keep listening, new episodes drop every Wednesday morning! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

The Final Countdown!

In our final episode of the year on In the Middle With You, we’re taking a moment to reflect, share gratitude, and walk down memory lane together. Thank you for listening, supporting, and being part of this community throughout the school year, we are so grateful for you! As we prepare for next year, we’d love your feedback. Please take a moment to visit the Parent Axis pages and complete our survey so we can continue supporting you well in the year ahead. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Locking In and Finishing Well

As the year ends, Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler take a moment to share the reminder that how we finish the year is just as important as how we start. The episode includes tangible ideas you can implement in your home and family over the last few weeks of school. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Important Dates!

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, we want to make sure you feel prepared, supported, and ready to finish strong. In this episode of In the Middle With You, we're walking alongside you through everything you need to know to wrap up the year. Open up your calendar and get ready to add all the necessary dates! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Hearts for Service

This week, Tammy and Gaia are joined by Oaks Christian High School student Vyan, who shares how he has personally lived out our school’s mission statement: “Minds for Leadership, Hearts for Service.” From inspiration to action, Vyan talks about the initiative he has created and how our middle school students will have the opportunity to be part of it as well. Plus, as always, we’ll share a few important community updates as we head into Spring Break. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Why Community Is Essential

Tammy and Gaia are joining you today for a thoughtful conversation about the value of community and the role we each play when those around us experience hardship and grief. In this episode, we invite you into the same conversations we’ve been having with our students: reflecting on how we care for one another, show up with compassion, and walk alongside others during difficult seasons. As we head into spring break, we hope this conversation encourages you to lean into the strength and support that community can offer. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Live from Welcome to the Pride 2026!

Tammy and Gaia talk to brand new Oaks Christian Lions to hear what has them excited about next year! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Welcome New Oaks Christian Lions: A Parent Perspective

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Mr. and Mrs. McDonough for a special episode of In the Middle With You! As we celebrate our Welcome to the Pride event and prepare to welcome new Lions to campus next school year, this conversation highlights the heart of the Oaks Christian community through the perspective of two of our parents. The McDonough's share what makes this community so special, the relationships, the shared values, and the joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether you are a current Oaks Christian family or just beginning your journey with us, this episode is a meaningful look at what makes our community such a unique and life-giving place to belong. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Head, Heart, Hands & Habits!

This week on In the Middle With You, we open the conversation around one of the most powerful tools parents have: their words. The way we speak to our children shapes far more than just a moment, it influences who they believe they are becoming. In this episode, we explore the powerful role your words play in the life of your child and how intentional language can shape their head, heart, hands, and habits. From the way kids think about themselves, to how they feel, act, and develop daily patterns, the words they hear from parents leave a lasting imprint. This is truly a do-not-miss episode! Listen in and stay connected with our community as we learn together. Here are the affirmations that Jade shared. Remember to use your child's name (and adjust other wording as necessary) when you speak them: "[Name], I just wanted you to know that I take great delight in you." "[Name}, you are fearfully and wonderfully made. And we appreciate who you are and who you're becoming." "Hey [Name], forget what is behind you. Any of those mistakes, Anything that you're dealing with. Just forget what's behind you and press on to the goal to which you have been called. And what that calling is, is to become a person of integrity and character. You keep going. That mistake doesn't define you." "You can always approach me with confidence, {Name]. Bring your stuff to me. I've probably dealt with it myself. If not, we'll work through it together." "You know what {Name}, I forgive you. I think we can do a bit better with that, but I forgive you. So let's put that behind us." "I bet you kids never thought about this - before you were born, your mom and I knew you. We would pray over you. We'd put our hands on your mom's belly and we'd feel you and we would read out loud things to you. We knew you. You've been known since before you even showed up in this world." "I will never leave you, {Name]. I'm always going to be here. You can count on me fighting for you. You can call on me and I will tell you great things about what's to come and who you are." "[Name], I know it's messy right now and your friends are all crazy, but I want you to know that your mom and I want you to have life, and life to the full. Life abundantly. So what does that look like for you? Let's talk about it. Share your dreams with us." "[Name], I want you to know I'm with you. I'm your ever-present help whenever you're in trouble, or whenever you just want to dream." Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Jade Molina - Spiritual Life Director Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Time to Lock In: The Final Academic Push

It’s the final academic push of the year, and around campus our students know what that means: it’s time to “lock in.” In this week’s episode of In the Middle With You, Tammy and Gaia sit down with EJ Edinburgh, one of our academic tutors, to talk about how students can finish the year strong. EJ shares practical strategies to help middle schoolers stay focused, manage their workload, and build study habits that set them up for success as the year wraps up. Caregivers will also gain insight into how our academic support team is working with students every day to help them stay organized, motivated, and confident in the classroom. If your student needs a little encouragement (or a plan!) for these final weeks, this episode is packed with helpful tips and perspective. And as always, don’t miss a few quick community updates—including Parent Coffee this Friday at 9am. We’d love to see you there! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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40 Days of Prayer with Mr. Mo

In this new episode of In the Middle With You, Tammy and Gaia sit down with Mr. Mo, our Spiritual Life Director, to talk about one of the most meaningful rhythms in the life of Oaks Christian School: 40 Days of Prayer. This recurring tradition has become a cornerstone of our community, shaping the spiritual life of our students, faculty, and families. Mr. Mo shares the heart behind 40 Days of Prayer, how it impacts middle schoolers in tangible ways, and why intentional, communal prayer matters so much during this season. You’ll hear stories of growth, encouragement, and the ways students are learning to slow down, reflect, and connect more deeply with God and one another. We also extend a special invitation to parents: this isn’t just a student experience, it’s a community one. Join us in leaning into these 40 days together and discover how prayer can transform not just our campus, but our homes as well. As always, don’t miss important community updates and a look at what’s happening around Oaks Christian. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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Why Middle School Feels So Mean (and What’s Really Going On)

This week on In the Middle With You, Tammy and Gaia dive into a question so many parents are asking: what is going on with middle school behavior?! We unpack what’s actually happening in the middle school brain, how kids are learning to navigate an increasingly complex social world, and how to tell the difference between mean moments and truly harmful patterns. We know how hard it can be to watch your child wade through the social waters of middle school, and our hope is that this episode leaves you feeling more informed, grounded, and supported. Have a great ski week! We’ll be back with a brand new episode when we return. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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Special Guest Episode: You Can Do Hard Things (All About Resiliency)

This week, In the Middle With You is honored to welcome a very special guest: Dr. Connie Horton, Vice Chancellor of the RISE Institute at Pepperdine University. Dr. Horton joins us to break down the building blocks of resiliency and why nurturing resilience in children now is one of the greatest gifts we can give them—setting the foundation for healthy, grounded young adults in the future. This conversation is insightful, hopeful, and deeply practical for parents navigating the middle years. Don’t miss this meaningful episode! And mark your calendars—Dr. Horton will also be joining us in person for an all-school parent coffee on March 6th.

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Friendship Series Episode 3: More Student Insight on Friendships

Week 3 of our Friendship Series is here and we’re continuing to center the voices that matter most—our students. In today’s episode, we invite parents to get curious about their child’s inner world, especially when it comes to friendships. We lean into a topic that can feel tender, but we do so with a hope-filled lens—because growth often starts with curiosity, not control. You’ll hear real perspectives, meaningful insights, and gentle encouragement to stay connected even when the conversations are hard. And don’t miss all the exciting things happening in our community over the next few weeks—we can’t wait to share what’s ahead. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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Friendship Series Episode 2: Friendship from a Student Perspective

This week on In the Middle With You, we continue our friendship series with a twist—sharing unfiltered feedback directly from middle school students. We break down key themes from the data we gathered to give parents real insight into what friendships are actually like at this age. Our goal is to offer tangible takeaways that help strengthen parent–child relationships as kids navigate one of the biggest areas of growth in middle school. Don’t miss this important conversation. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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Friendship Series Episode 1: What makes a good friend?

In the Middle With You is back for a new semester! Hosts Gaia Altshuler and Tammy Kuku share exciting updates and kick off the highly anticipated Friendship Series. This week, they explore the character traits that make a good friend and invite listeners to shift the question from “Why doesn’t anyone want to be my friend?” to the more meaningful “Am I being a good friend?” A thoughtful, encouraging conversation to start the season strong. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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Merry Christmas & See You in 2026!

As we wrap up an incredible semester, we want to say a heartfelt thank you for journeying with us. In this episode, we share a few of our favorite moments from the past months: those highlights that reminded us why we love walking alongside our middle school community. We also look ahead to what’s coming in the new semester and offer a few reflections to help you step into the break with peace, intention, and joy. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a season filled with rest, connection, and meaningful time with your family. We can’t wait to be back with you in 2026! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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