Students study subjects mandated by the State of Michigan such as mathematics, English language and literature, reading, writing, social studies, integrated science, physical education, and fine arts. Michigan is a Common Core state; therefore, GLIS uses Common Core standards, which may be found @www.michigan.gov/k-12. GLIS uses a research based reading and writing program which caters to the needs of a diverse student population and builds students’ capacity to read complex texts. GLIS uses formative and summative assessment to monitor student progress. Students at GLIS take the state assessment known as M-STEP (Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress) yearly so that the school can gauge how well students are mastering state standards. Students in grades 3-8 participate in M-STEP testing, and students in grade 8 taken PSAT. GLIS also administers another standardized test for students in Kindergarten through second grade, so that the entire school is assessed yearly. Formative assessments are used throughout the school daily and individual progress.
The school also adheres to ESSA guidelines. ESSA stands for the Every Student Succeeds Act, which requires that all students in America be taught to high academic standards that will prepare them to succeed in colleges and in careers.
The school fosters in-school competitive and creative activities such as essay contests, student council, spelling bees, science fair, multicultural fair and Qur’an competition. In addition to in-school activities students go on field trips and join clubs such as 4 H Club to develop debating and critical thinking skills and to learn about STEM topics such as robotics and rocketry.
GLIS offers Elective classes to grades 5 through 8. Elective classes provide enrichment opportunities for students beyond the core academic curriculum. Our goal is to prepare students to develop collaborative, technological, and critical thinking skills, while building values that lead to a better-rounded student. In short, we seek to help the students develop and expand their interests while providing them with new opportunities and a fulfilling educational experience.
At GLIS 5 through 8 graders will be taking two types of classes:
A) Required (yearlong) classes – these include Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Science, Qur’an, Islamic Studies, and Arabic. Additionally we offer Physical Education, Art, and Computer Classes once a week.
B) Elective (half-year) classes : Electives offered - Speech and Debate, Nutrition Heath and Wellness, STEM/STEAM Design and Build, Theater and Drama