Patriot Period

“Adolescence is a particularly dynamic period of brain development, second only to infancy in the extent and significance of the neural changes that occur” (National Library of Medicine).  

This dramatic change impacts adolescent students across all facets of their lives: biologically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially.   

At this age and stage, students need a responsive, flexible and dynamic learning environment that honors the transition from elementary school and to high school by: 

• fostering a sense of belonging, 

• providing the structure, guidance, and habits needed for success at the next level, 

• providing opportunities for students to develop agency and autonomy to explore interests,

• ensuring access to learning experiences aimed at academic rigor and success for all learners,

• prioritizing time for personalized learning needs - whether for intervention, practice or enrichment.

To advance our efforts to ensure a positive, safe, and successful learning environment for all Franklin Avenue Middle School students, we are excited to introduce a portion of our day dedicated to extended learning that is responsive to the varied and diverse needs of our students:  The Patriot Period.

The Patriot Period is a strategic and purposeful daily period of time in which students engage in meaningful learning opportunities that extend learning to meet the needs described above.  For 30-minutes each day, FAMS faculty work directly with students to support their academic growth and progress, build confidence and connections, develop their character, and readiness for future challenges - whether academic, emotional, or social.

Students will engage in meaningful learning opportunities that go beyond the traditional classroom. A central focus is providing targeted support in ELA and Math, ensuring students have the time and guidance they need to strengthen core skills. Alongside intervention, students benefit from enrichment opportunities that encourage them to explore interests, develop key academic and social skills, and build independence.

Wednesdays will remain focused on Character Education, including lessons on empathy, perseverance, digital citizenship, and P.A.T. (Positive Actions Together) Pause. Students will also participate in Patriots Pages independent reading, FAM5 podcast discussions, and other district and schoolwide goal–aligned activities.

At the start of the school year, each grade level builds on developmentally appropriate skills:

• Grade 6 emphasizes organization, independence, and FAMS community expectations

• Grade 7 strengthens study strategies, time management, and academic focus

• Grade 8 prepares students for high school with research skills, career exploration, and independence

Personalized Learning

As part of our commitment to supporting the success of every student,  students whose assessment data indicate a need for additional supplemental instruction and support now have the opportunity to receive content-specific tiered instruction directly from their primary ELA or Math subject area teacher during the Patriot Period.  

This means that students in need of academic support gain additional time with their teacher for strategic or intensive instruction without having to sacrifice time from their tier 1 or other content area classes.  Similarly, the Patriot Period is also allocated for ELA-focused G&T services for those students identified to receive this supplemental instruction.

Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) – The Successful Middle School: This We Believe

Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) – Research to Practice: Implementing Genius Projects in the Middle Grades

Education Elements – Instructional Models: Secondary (Infographic PDF)

Education Elements – Personalized Learning

New Jersey Department of Education – New Jersey Tiered System of Supports (NJTSS)