SPPS is strengthening the important transition from elementary to secondary school. Beginning in the 2013/2014 school year, the district is transforming junior high schools (grades 7 and 8) to middle schools (grades 6-8).
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All current grade 7-8 junior high schools will become grade 6-8 middle schools.
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Except for students in our K-8 schools, all current 5th and 6th grade students will be transitioning to middle school next year.
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Students entering grade 8 in a school outside their Area, and who were “grandfathered” into their current school in the 2012/2013 school year, will be allowed to complete grade 8 and continue to receive busing.
Here are some middle school highlights that families and students can look forward to:
Individual Student Needs Better Understood
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Our new three-year middle school program promotes longer-term student/teacher relationships, and a team-teaching approach will allow teachers to share information as students move from class to class and grade to grade.
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Advisories/homerooms allow students to connect during the entire school year with a small group of students and one teacher.
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A requirement for grade 5-8 teacher licensure includes better training on the needs and issues of adolescents.
Stronger Focus on Student Achievement
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Realigned middle school curriculum ensures the same strong class offerings in every middle school across the district.
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AVID prepares students for college eligibility and success; with learning supports, AVID places students who are struggling academically in advanced classes.
Student Support Activities Ensure Smooth Transitions
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W.E.B. (Where Everyone Belongs) places incoming students in small groups with two 8th grade student leaders who, with teachers, lead the group in team building and activities.
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Life Skills Education Curriculum provides students with a chance to talk about the changes occurring in their lives around issues such as relationships, bullying, harassment, on-line safety, and financial, college and career exploration.
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Transition activities between grades will offer students opportunities to learn about changes they can expect and identify services for students who need additional help.