Our Middle Schools: Capitalizing on
the wonder
The middle grades are referred
to as the “wonder” years in a child’s life. It is a time when students of
transform
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physically,
emotionally, and intellectually.
Visit any of our three middle schools and you will find
schools focused on ensuring that the basic skills mastered in elementary school
are broadened to prepare students for high school. We offer a comprehensive
program that goes beyond the basics of reading and math and includes social
studies, science, physical education, music, and art.
Our middle schools serve
students in grades 6 through 8 and are paired with a high school to ensure a
smooth transition. To ensure that students are not lost in the crowds, students
and teachers are grouped into teams at each grade level.
Each team is divided into
advisory classes of about 18 to 25 students. Advisory is the nuts and bolts
of true middle level. Teaming is essential for the success of
students and teachers. The advisory teacher acts the students’
advocate for the year and serves as the first contact for parents. Advisory
classes address a variety of themes and topics through the school year from
time and stress management to planning for high school.
Our middle schools reflect our
instructional approach that emphasizes applying knowledge in hands-on projects
and lessons. Research shows that middle school is a critical time to excite
students about math and science. Two years ago, our middle schools put into
place “Project Lead the Way,” a
pre-engineering program that allows students to explore problem solving in a
fun, exciting, hands-on way.
The middle school years also
are time when children’s values and beliefs about themselves and their
community begin to crystallize. Teachers and administrators stress
building character and responsibility skills during this time. Advisory classes
play a key role in this area as well organizing promoting community service
from the district’s annual food drive to raising funds for medical research or
cleaning up neighborhoods.