Fall is in the Air and Energy is High at Altar Valley Middle School

As the crisp fall breeze arrives, the energy around Altar Valley Middle School is energized. One of my favorite daily routines as principal is connecting with students during morning and lunch recess. With the end of an unusually long 100-degree season, more students are active outdoors, enjoying the cooler weather. Inside, our classrooms are buzzing with learning and engagement.

Our social studies teacher, Mrs. Mattias, has been immersing students in fascinating lessons across all grades:

• 6th Grade: Students have been journeying through Ancient Civilizations, studying Mesopotamia, the Indus River Valley, China, and currently exploring Egypt. A classroom favorite so far has been the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall of Ancient China, sparking much excitement and curiosity. When asking a group of students what they were learning they stated, “Did you know there are dead bodies buried at the Great Wall?”

• 7th Grade: The focus recently shifted to the study of the world’s five major religions—Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. As they wrap up this unit, they are now diving into the Westward Expansion of the United States.

• 8th Grade: Students have explored the dynamic cultural shift of the Roaring 20s (with some lively appreciation for the dancing of the era) and are currently learning about political parties and elections. It’s inspiring to see how engaged they are, as I often hear them discussing key takeaways from their lessons. Darion L. shared, “There is more to politics than donkeys and elephants!” and Skyler I. stated, “The highs are often followed by the lows, like the Roaring Twenties followed by the Great Depression.”

Mrs. Mattias continues to ignite a passion for history and critical thinking, and I’m proud to witness the incredible growth in all our students.

We are excited to see where Quarter 2 takes us! 

Shelly Camp

AVMS Principal