The overall purpose of middle school is to meet the educational, developmental, and social needs that emerge in this transitional period. The middle school program provides a supportive and flexible environment so students will have opportunities to develop skills and explore a variety of learning experiences while making the transition from elementary to high school. Through a caring and secure environment, the middle school program ensures that all students experience challenge and success. The curriculum is based upon the developmental needs of the young adolescent, with the following goals:

• mastering basic skills within an interdisciplinary context
• acquiring a fundamental body of knowledge and the critical thinking skills necessary for its interpretation and application
• developing and maintaining a positive self-image
• accepting increased social, personal and academic responsibilities
• exploring a diversity of curricular and extracurricular activities
• developing an increased awareness of individual differences and respect for others
• participating responsibly in the school community

Westwood Regional Middle School has made sure to include many best practices when creating our program and keep the students at the forefront of our thinking when we reflect and modify our program. Best practices include:

• teams for core classes providing the teachers an opportunity to work collaboratively with planning, assessments, and student-centered issues
• ongoing, comprehensive upstander training, as well as programming on appropriate decision making
• positive behavioral support program, HIGH FIVE!
• exploratory learning experiences provided through various selective courses, in addition to after school clubs and activities
• heterogeneous class groupings allowing students of various abilities and learning styles to benefit one another

The success of our school resides within the opportunities provided to our students. We are fortunate enough to have an excellent staff to facilitate this experience for every student.