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ACADEMICS
The curriculum is departmentalized and students move from class to class. Students carry an academic schedule of five core courses in the subjects of English, history, mathematics, science, and foreign language as well as participate in the fine arts, personal development courses, elective opportunities, and physical education. Class size ranges from 8 to 20 students with a typical class of 15, and the ratio of students to teachers is 8:1. The entire academic program is enriched and challenging, designed to build strong foundations in reading, writing, speaking, critical thinking, problem-solving and study habits within the context of the subject matter. Accelerated sections in mathematics and foreign language provide even more advanced opportunities for students with greater experience or facility with these subjects. Homework, assigned in all courses, is an integral part of the middle school program and averages two to two and one-half hours per night. A daily study hall period is scheduled so students may begin homework or other projects, use the library and computer facilities, or seek additional help.
The study of literature and the development of composition skills make up the core of the English curriculum. Literature selections represent a balance of contemporary and classic works, including novels, short stories, poetry, plays, and a variety of literary styles. Through these readings, students gain new understandings of themselves and the world as well as the power and beauty of the written word. Work in composition includes both expository and creative writing. The study of literature and composition is supported by instruction in the fundamental skills of vocabulary, spelling, and grammar.
The history program presents ancient and medieval history to grade six, the continuation of world history to grade seven, and U.S. history and government to grade eight. Each year focuses on the development of research techniques, oral presentations, note-taking and study skills, enrichment projects, and an awareness of current events within a historical context.
Mathematics in grade six introduces pre-algebra and builds a solid foundation in computation and conceptual skills. In grade seven, the study of algebra allows the students to develop an understanding of and ability to use algebraic principles and properties to investigate quantitative concepts in an orderly, logical and coherent manner. A more advanced algebra program in grade eight introduces the use of algebraic concepts in higher mathematics as preparation for advanced study in high school.
The science program emphasizes inquiry and the scientific method. Students in grade six study earth science and in grade seven study life science. The sixth and seventh grade outdoor education trips to Joshua Tree National Park and the Colorado River are designed to complement the study of both earth and life sciences. In grade eight, students participate in a laboratory-based introduction to physical science through a full year study of chemistry.
The three-year foreign language program offers students the opportunity to study either Spanish or French. In addition to the formal study of vocabulary and grammar to facilitate reading, writing, listening, speaking, and conversation in the target language, an appreciation of culture is fostered.
To balance the challenging academic core curriculum, the Mini-course program and the Fine Arts and Electives program offer visual and performing arts, personal development courses, and a variety of special interest electives. The Mini-course curriculum for grade six is structured to include studio art, music, computer, and personal development. The Fine Arts and Elective curriculum in grades seven and eight gives students more options to pursue personal interests while completing arts requirements in visual arts, music, and performance and personal development classes.
Advisory groups consisting of a faculty member and a small group of students meet once each week throughout the school year. These groups provide the optimum setting for establishing relationships between students and faculty as well as addressing the issues affecting individual students, the school, the community and society.
The academic year is divided into four quarters. Middle school students receive quarterly report cards which include marks for academic performance, effort, and citizenship as well as comments from teachers. In addition, teachers periodically send home written comments or grade reports to keep students and parents informed of student achievement as the quarter progresses. Each fall, at the end of first quarter, two half-days are set aside for parent conferences. Beyond these formal processes, parents and faculty are encouraged to communicate with each other at any time.
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