In the Middle With You

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorJade Molina - Spiritual Life DirectorEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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.

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice Principal Editing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

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 CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week on In the Middle With You, Gaia and Tammy dive into the beautiful and meaningful concept of a “thin place:" those moments or spaces where the distance between the everyday and the sacred feels just a little closer. We explore what a thin place is, why this idea matters so much during the busyness of December, and how we’re intentionally cultivating thin places at Oaks Christian to support our students’ spiritual, emotional, and relational growth. We also share important end-of-semester announcements to help you and your student finish strong and step into the holiday season with clarity and confidence. We hope this episode encourages you, grounds you, and inspires you to slow down, pay attention, and increase your awareness of the thin places around you this season. Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week on In the Middle With You, we’re talking about something that becomes surprisingly powerful as we step into December: routine. With school events, holiday plans, concerts, sports, travel, and end-of-year pressures piling up, our schedules are busier than ever—and that’s exactly why simple, predictable rhythms matter so much. We share how these gentle, flexible routines don’t restrict the holiday experience, they protect it, helping families enjoy more connection, more calm, and more joy as the year comes to a close.Whether you’re navigating a packed calendar or trying to keep your home peaceful in the holiday rush, this conversation offers practical ways to end the semester well and enjoy the season along the way. Tune in for encouragement, simple tools, and a reminder that a little rhythm can go a long way.Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week on In the Middle With You, we’re joined by a very special guest: Jade Molina! In honor of Thanksgiving, we dive deep into all things gratitude: how it strengthens our physical health, supports our mental well-being, and nurtures our spiritual life. Jade brings wisdom and practical insights you won’t want to miss. And be sure to stick around until the end; a few of our amazing students share what they’re grateful for this season, adding the perfect heartwarming touch to our Thanksgiving episode. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us! We’ll see you again after the holiday break for another episode of In the Middle With You.Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week, we’re kicking things off with a few exciting announcements so you don’t miss any of the holiday happenings at Oaks Christian! Then, we dive into the mid-semester shift — that time of year when visits to our offices tend to pick up. Gaia and Tammy unpack what might be behind that, share ways you can support your child at home, and explain what we’re doing here at school to help every student thrive.We all need a little refresh now and then, and that’s exactly what this episode is all about. Tune in and take a deep breath — we’re in the middle with you!Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week, we’re diving into the start of the holiday season and everything that comes with it! Between school events, family gatherings, and a calendar that’s bursting at the seams, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Tammy and Gaia talk about how to navigate the busyness with intention—offering practical tips to help you manage your child’s emotions and set your family up for success this season. Special highlight: Gaia’s parents make a surprise guest appearance! They share their firsthand perspective as parents who have weathered the middle school years and remind us that all the energy and effort you’re investing right now truly matters.Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week we’re joined by special guests Holly Exler and Jen Voss, two incredible Oaks Christian staff members whose unique expertise helps our community thrive. Together, we dive into how to set the brain up for success—covering everything from the essential nutrition our brains need to practical study tips that boost focus and productivity.Whether you’re a parent looking to support your child’s learning or just curious about brain health, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways you can start using right away in your parenting journey!Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week, hosts Tammy Kuku and Gaia Altshuler unpack how cultural pressures and expectations can fuel perfectionism and impact your child's emotional health. They explore how to shift from perfection to healthy striving, finding our true identity in Christ, and share simple tools to help your child embrace growth over perfection.Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

In this episode, we’re taking a moment to reflect on all we’ve accomplished in Quarter 1 of the school year! Join us for an insightful conversation with our very own Kim Newman, Learning Specialist, as we dive into all things academic. Together, we explore key questions like: What do grades really represent? How can we use them as a tool for growth? And how can parents best celebrate and support their child on their academic journey?As we wrap up the first quarter, it’s the perfect time for an academic check-in — and this episode will give you both perspective and practical takeaways to carry into the rest of the year! Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week on In The Middle With You, Tammy and Gaia keep it short and sweet with a special Fall Break message. We pause to echo the importance of connection and family time, and we hope you find space for both during the time ahead. Enjoy the break, soak in the extra time, and we look forward to seeing you back on Monday!Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

In this week’s episode of In The Middle With You, Tammy and Gaia bring you the latest community updates before diving into a fun and insightful conversation about the surprising similarities between the zoo and the world wide web. Together, they explore how today’s digital world impacts your middle schooler’s daily life and share practical tools to help parents guide their kids in managing technology with balance and confidence.Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week, Tammy and Gaia sit down to talk all things retreats! From important logistics to helping your child navigate worry and nervousness, we cover what you need to know to prepare for the upcoming retreats. Our hope is that these insights give you the tools to start building excitement and confidence for camp with your student. Plus, we’ve included the latest community updates so you can stay connected with everything happening here at Oaks!Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Join Tammy Kuku, Gaia Altshuler, and our special guests on this week’s episode as we dive into all things retreats! You’ll get a behind-the-scenes perspective from students who have been part of our community since 6th grade. With fun as the theme, this episode is full of stories, insights, and excitement. Tune in to learn more about retreats, and bring that energy back to your students!Hosted by:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

This week, Tammy and Gaia are joined by Middle School Director of Spiritual Life, Jade Molina to discuss the spiritual norms at the middle school. Hosts:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Tammy and Gaia talk through emotional norms at the middle school.Hosts:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Tammy and Gaia reflect on the first week of school and talk through behavioral norms at the middle school.Hosts:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Tammy and Gaia share some community updates and walk through how we implement the Culture Playbook on the middle school campus.Hosts:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! Get some updates on key things happening this week and next week as we're joined by our principal, Tara MorrowHosts:Gaia Altshuler - Social Emotional CounselorTammy Kuku - Vice PrincipalEditing and Engineering by:Tyler Erickson - Educational Technologist

Tammy and Gaia reflect on some of the exciting events of the past week (Wacky Wednesday, Medieval Days, etc.) while preparing for other major events on the horizon, including 8th grade graduation festivities, the production of Newsies Jr., the Arts Extravaganza, and more. Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Spiritual Life Director Jade Molina to give an update on the 40 Days of Prayer and preview Wacky Wednesday.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia take the podcast live to our Welcome to the Pride event, interviewing new students to hear what they're excited for at Oaks Christian School.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by a few students to discuss their experiences with the beginning of 40 Days of Prayer.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia talk about Ski Week, 40 Days of Prayer, and the last questions from the friendship survey.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia continue the conversation about friendships, talking through friendship dynamics and how things tend to shift throughout the course of middle school. Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy couldn't resist referencing this song in today's episode:‎Friends - Song by Whodini - Apple MusicTammy and Gaia share results from a student survey about friendships, looking at questions like "have you ever experienced a friendship breakup?" and "who is the loudest voice in your life?"Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Jade Molina (Mr. Mo) as they talk about starting the semester well spiritually. Join them as they talk about seeing the Dead Sea Scrolls, 40 Days of Prayer, and more!Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia talk about community and building one another up while sharing about their reading of You Are Special by Max Lucado with the 6th grade students. Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Kim Newman to discuss starting the second semester well.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

There is so much holiday cheer happening at Oaks Christian Middle School. This episode will update you on all the end-of-year, holiday events happening in our community. Listen here for a few tips from Tammy Kuku about how you can encourage your child to finish strong during finals seasons. Our SEL Counselor, Gaia Altshuler will share about the value of tradition around the holidays and a few ideas of how to create holiday magic and memories that will bless your family for years to come! Lastly, ending the episode in our favorite way, with the voices of students sharing their holiday traditions. Merry Christmas!

Tammy and Gaia spent some time unpacking the Advent season with Jade Molina (Spiritual Life Director) and discussing all the events planned for December at Oaks Christian School.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal).

Tammy and Gaia interview several students and their grandparents to hear about family traditions, Thanksgiving, and more.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Jan Hethcock (former Athletic Director) and three of his grandchildren to talk about the joys of being a grandparent, Jan's history at the school, and more!Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by Jade Molina (Spiritual Life Director) and Tara Morrow (Principal) to talk about Veterans Day.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia preview the Veterans Day assembly and kick off a month of gratitude. Several students share what they're thankful for. Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website

Tammy and Gaia are joined by two students from each grade level as they share their reflections and insights from the grade-level retreats.Hosted by Gaia Altshuler (Social Emotional Counselor) and Tammy Kuku (Vice Principal)Produced and Engineered by Tyler Erickson (Educational Technologist)AXIS LinkSchool Website