At JIS Middle School we believe a whole-child approach to education is key to developing and preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow. Middle School students are learning who they are as learners, friends, family members and individuals, and our role is to support them during this journey. 

The MS House system aims to reflect and support the JIS core values.  The House system aims to give students an identity and sense of pride in a supportive, secure environment. The Houses, (Volcano Groups) provide for positive competition and a closer rapport between students and teachers. They also aim to help new staff and students adapt to the culture/community of JIS.

Besides the natural fun that comes along with such a system, the house system affords additional opportunities for:

•         Nurturing relationships across grade levels

•         Leadership, friendly competition, and service

•         Faculty involvement with students on a different relational level

•         Positive peer pressure and mentorship

There are 6 Volcano Groups in the MS House system, each named after a local volcano. The houses are Krakatau, Agung, Bromo, Merapi, Salak and Rinjani. Students are placed in a Volcano Group when they first join the Middle School, and they remain in that house for their middle school career. Each house is comprised of a variety of students from 6th, 7th and 8th grade, as well as several faculty members.  The mixed level houses provide the opportunity for the students in the different grade levels to create new friendships, experience leadership opportunities, gain intrinsic motivation through perseverance, and learn how to work as a team.  The house system instills teamwork, friendship, cooperation and leadership.

Each  Volcano Group is supported and motivated by several grade 8 students called Volcano Leaders. These students act as mentors for their peers, lead Volcano activities throughout the year, and encourage enthusiasm and fun through leading the Volcano cheers. 

The Volcano Groups compete in a number of activities for points throughout the year, including quarterly events known as MADNESS days.  Each semester, the winning House receives the Caldera Cup.

The House system is an integral and vibrant part of the school’s culture. Students and teachers alike recall it as being one of their favorite aspects of life at JIS MS!