Our Story

 

South Middle School opened in 1972 as one of two identical junior high schools serving students in seventh through ninth grades that were built to replace the district’s old West Junior High School.  South is located off 12th Avenue Road on Greenhurst Road.

 

Throughout our 35-year history, our school has been upgraded with additional classrooms, a new gymnasium, and other improvements. Thanks to the passage of a bond in the spring of 2007, our school will be expanded again with a new multiple purpose room.

 

The middle grades are referred to as the “wonder” years in a child’s life. It is a time when students are transformed physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

 

Visit any of our districts four 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.

 

To ensure that students are not lost in the crowds, students and teachers are grouped into teams at each grade level. Teaming is essential for the success of students and teachers. The advisory teacher acts as 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 a 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 that include organizing and promoting community service such as the district’s annual food drive, raising funds for medical research, and cleaning up neighborhoods.