In the Middle With You

Raising Capable Kids! Part 2

This week on In the Middle With You, Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler continue our conversation on capability and dive deeper into what it looks like for middle school students to become increasingly capable and confident. We explore the value of taking healthy risks, doing hard and uncomfortable things, and learning through reflection. We also give you a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re intentionally building capability in our students at Oaks Christian and why giving students opportunities to struggle, try, reflect, and try again is such an important part of their growth. Join us for another week of insight, encouragement, and practical tools as we talk about what’s happening in the life of your middle school student. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

Raising Capable Kids! Part 1

This week on In The Middle With You, Gaia Altshuler and Tammy Kuku invite you into a two-part series on capability. What does it really mean for our kids to be capable? Why is capability such an important part of raising healthy, confident middle schoolers? We’re unpacking the connection between capability and confidence, and exploring how giving our teens opportunities to try, struggle, problem-solve, and grow can shape the way they see themselves. With so many voices, opinions, and messages surrounding parenting today, our hope is that this conversation feels both tangible and encouraging as you navigate the middle school years. Join us as we talk about practical ways we can help our kids build confidence by discovering what they are truly capable of. Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

Pack Your Bags: We're Talking Student Retreats!

This week on In the Middle With You, we’re excited to welcome Hayden Roush, our new Dean of Student Life, to the podcast! Hayden is here to share everything parents need to know about our upcoming student retreats. Retreats are one of Oaks Christian’s most favorite events of the year, and we want you to feel informed, prepared, and excited so you can share that excitement with your student! Tune in for all the details, helpful information, and what to expect as we look ahead to these meaningful experiences. Plus, stay up to date with all the latest Student Life updates! We can’t wait to share this special part of the Oaks Christian experience with you! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

Norms Part 3: It’s Normal Not to Recognize Your Middle Schooler

If you’ve ever looked at your middle schooler and thought, “Wait… who is this kid?!” you are definitely not alone. Middle school comes with A LOT of change: big emotions, shifting friendships, growing independence, unexpected attitudes, and moments that can leave parents wondering where their sweet, familiar kid went.In this episode of In the Middle With You, we’re talking about the ups, downs, and everything in between that comes with the middle school years. We’ll unpack why your child might seem so different right now, what’s actually happening beneath the surface, and share practical ways to navigate these years without losing connection in the process.Join us for a real, encouraging conversation filled with practicals, perspective, and a few updates along the way. You’re not alone in the middle, we’re in it with you! Hosted by: Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional Counselor Tammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by: Tyler Erickson - Academic Dean

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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