Santa Barbara Middle School

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Santa Barbara Middle School Because of them, us. Because of us, them.

What better way to learn about archaeology than to create your own dig site? In 6th Grade Social Studies, students have ...
10/07/2026

What better way to learn about archaeology than to create your own dig site?

In 6th Grade Social Studies, students have been exploring humans during prehistory and considering an important question: How do we know about people who lived before written records existed?

Much of what historians and archaeologists understand about the distant past comes from artifacts and archaeological sites. To experience this firsthand, students created their own dig sites, hiding edible arrowheads and skulls and observing how objects once left on the surface can become buried over hundreds or thousands of years.

Then came the fun part—digging in and discovering the secrets left behind.

It’s one thing to read about archaeology. It’s another to get your hands dirty and experience how clues from the past help us understand the story of humanity.

3… 2… 1… LAUNCH!One of our favorite annual SBMS traditions took flight again—the Bottle Rocket Launch!There’s something ...
10/07/2026

3… 2… 1… LAUNCH!

One of our favorite annual SBMS traditions took flight again—the Bottle Rocket Launch!

There’s something pretty magical about turning a plastic bottle, a little water, some air pressure, and a whole lot of creative thinking into a rocket soaring across the SBMS sky. Students put their ideas to the test, learning about pressure, propulsion, aerodynamics, and design while making adjustments, solving problems, and cheering one another on.

It’s science you can see, hear, and occasionally have to dodge.

Hands-on, a little messy, and a whole lot of fun—just the way we like learning at SBMS.

Who knew a single piece of yarn could bring math to life? It’s three-dimensional math in action - students working toget...
10/05/2026

Who knew a single piece of yarn could bring math to life?

It’s three-dimensional math in action - students working together, thinking creatively, problem-solving, and having plenty of fun along the way. Sometimes the simplest tools create the most engaging learning experiences.

Math you can see, touch, and experience.

We have so many incredible electives at SBMS, but skateboarding seems to be a favorite right now! It’s wonderful to see ...
10/02/2026

We have so many incredible electives at SBMS, but skateboarding seems to be a favorite right now!

It’s wonderful to see our middle schoolers taking risks, trying new things, building new skills, and having a whole lot of fun along the way.

Learning, growing, and finding joy in the process—that’s what it’s all about.

It’s Spirit Week here at SBMS! Can you guess what today’s theme was? So much fun seeing our students and faculty getting...
09/29/2026

It’s Spirit Week here at SBMS! Can you guess what today’s theme was?

So much fun seeing our students and faculty getting into the spirit!

Community Action in Action!Earlier this week, 19 students from the Community Action Elective, taught by Joy and Jenni-El...
09/22/2026

Community Action in Action!

Earlier this week, 19 students from the Community Action Elective, taught by Joy and Jenni-Elise, presented their pitches for the organizations they selected as a team. Over the past few weeks, students worked collaboratively to research their organizations and create thoughtful presentations for their classmates. We were also grateful for the teachers and faculty members who joined us to listen, ask questions, and support our students! Six groups of 3–4 students each presented on an organization that was meaningful to them, answering the who, what, where, when, and why, including why they felt their organization was important and deserving of our support.

The six organizations selected were:

🌱 Green America
🏀 I ACT
🌊 Surfrider Foundation
📚 Malala Fund
🏠 Noah’s Anchorage
🐶 Santa Barbara Humane Society

After each presentation, students had the opportunity to ask questions and share both positive and constructive feedback with their peers. Once all six presentations were complete, the class voted on which organization they would work with for the remainder of the quarter. Next, students will connect directly with the selected organization to learn more about its needs and collaborate on a meaningful service project. Our goal is to give students a hands-on experience with community service, allowing them to put their ideas into action and make a tangible difference in our community.

We are so proud of the thoughtfulness, teamwork, confidence, and passion our students brought to their presentations. They did an incredible job!

Last week’s Sunrise Swim was phenomenal! It felt like 90% of the school was there—and that makes our hearts happy. There...
09/10/2026

Last week’s Sunrise Swim was phenomenal! It felt like 90% of the school was there—and that makes our hearts happy. There really is no better way to gather as a community and start the day off right. As Brian said, he never regrets getting up and swimming in the ocean; it simply sets his day up for success.

Beginnings are important. And at SBMS, we begin a little differently.Our first week is about connection and reconnection...
08/31/2026

Beginnings are important. And at SBMS, we begin a little differently.

Our first week is about connection and reconnection, building community, and setting the tone for the journey ahead. It’s about new friendships, familiar faces, shared experiences, and making sure every student feels part of this community.

We’ve loved welcoming everyone back to campus, getting out on bikes, and beginning another year together.

The journey is underway, and we can’t wait for all the miles, moments, challenges, growth, and memories ahead.

Here’s to an incredible year at SBMS. Let’s ride!

While scrolling through photos from our recent Lower School expedition to Marin, we stumbled upon this image—and it perf...
07/27/2026

While scrolling through photos from our recent Lower School expedition to Marin, we stumbled upon this image—and it perfectly captures the spirit of SBMS.

Life is full of climbs, challenges, and unexpected obstacles. But when you're surrounded by people who lift you up, make you laugh when things get tough, and help you find joy in every moment, even the hardest days become unforgettable.

This is what our expeditions are really about. Not just the miles traveled or the places explored, but the friendships forged, the resilience built, and the community that reminds us we're never climbing alone.

Because of Them, Us. Because of Us, Them.

There are still a handful of spots left for next weeks Bike Mechanic and Mountain Biking CampJoin our SBMS mountain biki...
07/02/2026

There are still a handful of spots left for next weeks Bike Mechanic and Mountain Biking Camp

Join our SBMS mountain biking team for a week of skill building and fun rides. Students will learn the fundamentals of bike mechanics, how to ride safely, and gain off-road biking experience. A mountain bike, bike helmet, bike gloves, and water bottles are essential for this camp.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 3 PM
Ages: 9–12
Cost: $395 per week

Location: Santa Barbara Middle School, 1321 Alameda Padre Serra

Camp Dates:

July 6–July 10

For more information and to book, please visit sbms.org.

Address

1321 Alameda Padre Serra
Santa Barbara, CA
93103

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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