Embedded Files
Click on the links below to view a unique
LMS perspective of the elective course!
Click on the links below to view a unique
LMS perspective of the elective course!
Contact info for the elective teacher has been provided for your convenience.
Art MS 6600 - 6th grade semester art
Art MS 6602-6802 - 7th & 8th grade full year art
High School Art I 6101MS - 8th Grade only - HS fine arts credit
The LMS Art Studio is a place where we learn together and laugh together. We explore the world of art while we learn to use the creative process to develop our ideas to create original artworks from direct observation, experience, and imagination. Together we will discover how to use the media and tools to create the desired effect for our artwork, through instruction and experimentation. My hope is that we all learn to embrace the mistakes - they help us to become better.
Mackenzie Jones
mackenziel.jones@leanderisd.org
Athletics - 7th & 8th Grade (physical required)
Pre-Athletics - 6th Grade (physical is not required)
Boys: Greg Steger
Girls: Amanda Bailey
AVID 8769/8869 - 7th & 8th grade full year avid
AVID's mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. AVID brings research‐based strategies that develop students’ critical thinking, literacy, and math skills across all content areas. In the AVID Elective class, students receive daily instruction and support to prepare them for college. AVID, a regularly scheduled elective class, prepares students in middle school for success in advanced high school classes and college. While all students are exposed to AVID strategies at LMS, AVID is also offered as an elective class. AVID continues all four years of high school.
Samantha Galloway
samanthag.galloway@leanderisd.org
Bridges to Academic Success 8667 (6th grade semester intro to AVID)
is a semester-long course designed for 6th grade students to develop essential academic and personal skills that are crucial for their success in middle school and beyond. The curriculum focuses on time management techniques, collaborative study groups, and team-building exercises that aim to motivate and engage students. By providing a strong foundation, this course empowers students to transition smoothly from elementary to middle school and excel in all core content areas.
Samantha Galloway
samanthag.galloway@leanderisd.org
Beginning Band 6610 - 1st year of Band - full year elective
Beginning Band is a full-year elective for students taking band for the first time in middle school, and no previous musical experience is necessary. The class meets daily and is available to any student interested in learning to play a band instrument for the first time! Placement on an instrument is based on physical characteristics, student preference, director recommendation, and availability. Students who choose to be in Beginning Band will attend an Instrument Selection Day in April to try out the instruments and find what is the best fit for them. The class meets during the school day; however, there is one after school rehearsal before our winter concert in December, and one before our spring concert in May. Participation in concerts is required. For any questions, please contact Liz Love at Liz.Love@leanderisd.org.
Band 6710/6810 - 2nd or 3rd year of Band
Students who have completed Beginning Band will be a part of our ability-based Advanced Bands. Students will audition in April/May for their band placement for the following school year. Information regarding auditions will be communicated in advance. Students will be placed in Honors Band, Symphonic Band, or Concert Band. The band directors will consider the following things when placing students in bands (including, but not limited to): the student's audition, attitude, preparation for class daily, music-reading ability, and fundamentals of playing their instrument. For any questions, please contact Liz Love at Liz.Love@leanderisd.org.
Liz Love
Emily Smith
emilyhelen.smith@leanderisd.org
Jeremiah Ward
Choir 6624 - 6th Grade Choir - full year elective
Choir 6722 - 7th & 8th grade Choirs
The LMS Choir Family is a safe place for you to learn about healthy singing, reading music, and being the most confident version of yourself! Choir is an activity that you can stick with through high school and college, making lifelong friendships! No singing skills necessary as we learn how to sing and perform as a team. Learning to read music is proven to make you a better test taker, language learner, and time manager.
Rachel Clow
Erin Chunn
erin.chunn@leanderisd.org
Cheerleading
Cheerleading
Cheer 6th Grade 7611 (*new offering for 26/27)
Cheerleading 7711 - 7th & 8th Grade Team
Cheer is an extreme sport where students can learn dance, cheers, tumbling, stunting, and jumps while being in a supportive team environment. You do not need any prior experience to be on the team and we welcome all students to try it out. We prepare you for high school and college cheer if you choose to continue on that path. We have fun cheering on our school, do team-building activities together, compete with other schools in the district, and create lifelong friendships along the way.
Carissa Mettler
carissa.mettler@leanderisd.org
Parent Meeting: February 17th, 2026 6:00p.m.
Clinics/Tryout Information (25/26 school year)
Evaluation packet (25/26 school year)
Color Guard
Color Guard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHv8jUG4960
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PV8ykGCdvTw
Color Guard 7703 - 7th & 8th Grade course
Color Guard is considered “the sport of the arts” because of the combination of artistic and athletic qualities involved in the activity. Color Guard students will learn basic flag and dance skills, and they will put those to use in numerous choreographed routines throughout the school year. The Color Guard will have multiple performance opportunities in class and outside of class, including pep rallies and showcases. The skills learned in color guard will help prepare students to continue doing color guard in high school and college if they choose to continue on that path. There is no cost to join the LMS Color Guard. You do not need any prior experience to be on the team, and all students are welcome and encouraged to join! If you have any questions, please contact our Color Guard Director.
Color Guard Director: Allison Petro (LHS)
Creative Writing
Creative Writing
Intro to Creative Writing 1906 - 6th grade semester course (*new offering for 26/27)
Creative Writing 1907 - 7th & 8th Grade Creative Writing
Young writers will enhance their knowledge in the writing process: planning, drafting, revising, editing, and ultimately publishing their work in a variety of genres to different audiences. Writers will delve into a multitude of genres: realistic fiction, horror, dystopian, science fiction, and fantasy. Additionally, students will analyze mentor texts from some of the finest authors in literature. For poetry, writers will learn the individual building blocks of the craft, analyze the work of famous poets, and create original pieces using several eclectic formats. Over the course of the year, writers will produce a variety of creative projects, including but not limited to; a horror story podcast, an original play (performed by advanced theatre) and a short film. By year’s end, writers will hone their personal style and grow their technique.
Taylor Rodriguez
taylor.rodriguez@leanderisd.org
Dance I 6631 (6th graders can also take 6630 - semester dance along with semester of PE)
Dance I 6631 (6th graders can also take 6630 - semester dance along with semester of PE)
Dance 2/Adv Dance 6731/6831 - 2nd & 3rd year dance
Dance 2/Adv Dance 6731/6831 - 2nd & 3rd year dance
Drill Team 6635/6735 - Tigerettes - 7th & 8th Grade dance and performance teams
Drill Team 6635/6735 - Tigerettes - 7th & 8th Grade dance and performance teams
Amber Valenzuela
amber.valenzuela@leanderisd.org
Tigerette Dancer & Parent Interest Meeting is scheduled for February 9th, 2026 6:00pm in the LMS cafeteria
8270MS - HS Credit Entrepreneurship course for 7th & 8th grade
Using the Uncharted Learning mxINCedu curriculum, Entrepreneurship I introduces students to business, entrepreneurship, and leadership through real-world challenges and project-based learning. It combines foundational business concepts with essential career skills, including financial management, personal branding, and creative problem-solving. Students will explore entrepreneurial tools, learn the design thinking process, and develop essential durable skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Throughout the course, students apply their learning by working in teams to identify a problem to solve, develop a product/solution, pitch their idea, sell/test their product or service, evaluate the performance, and iterate based on market learnings. The experience culminates in a ‘pop-up’ or ecommerce marketplace where students sell their products. Evidence of learning includes a business model canvas, a budget and pricing model for the business, a product name and brand, a pitch deck, communications and marketing material, sales goals, reflections, and student portfolio. Students successfully completing Entrepreneurship I at middle school will receive one high school elective credit toward 21 different High School Programs of Study but the course grades will be excluded from the student’s high school grade point average (GPA).
Samantha Galloway
samanthag.galloway@leanderisd.org
Exploring STEM 8609 - 6th grade semester course
STEM is a fun and challenging class where we explore topics like 3-D design, Coding, Robotics, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering through collaborative projects. If you have any interest in these topics check out Exploring STEM!
Izzy Mendez
Fundamentals of Computer Science 8449MS - 7th & 8th Grade high school credit course
Using programs like Computer Science for Innovators and Makers (IM), App Creators (AC), and Code.org, introduce students to the world of computer science through hands-on projects that bridge the virtual and physical worlds. Students explore computational thinking by developing mobile apps, designing websites with HTML, and creating systems with sensors and actuators. They design algorithms, code microcontrollers, and solve real-world problems in areas like wearable technology, interactive art, biomedical science, and community service. Working in teams, students tackle issues such as health, wellness, the environment, and education, while experiencing the positive impact of technology on society and other disciplines. Nondiscrimination Statement
Izzy Mendez
Journalism: News Media
Journalism: News Media
News Media 8773 - 7th & 8th Grade course
Students will learn skills to create, manage, and produce school news media that can be published using a variety of print and digital formats and platforms. Students will develop skills in journalistic writing, interviewing, research, photography, layout and design, and editing. Students must be responsible, self-motivated, reliable, and prompt.
Focuses on producing creative media such as podcasts, videos, and photos.
Students will learn to operate a camera for video and photography and will also be responsible for producing the weekly announcements!
Keegan Fiero
Leadership
Leadership
Exploring Leadership 8650 - 6th grade semester course
Professional Communication 8478MS semester/Leadership 8850 - 7th & 8th Grade Leadership course that includes .5 HS credit upon completion (*new offering for 26/27)
Students who enjoy being involved in school events like pep rallies, NJHS, or student council and have a large amount of school spirit will develop as leaders in this course. We will work on event planning, holding meetings, research projects and goal setting and tracking. Students will be involved in all campus events and will be expected to lead the way during spirit weeks and with their academics. In addition, students will learn the tools to successful public speaking and use those tools during a number of in class speeches throughout the year. Students who are interested in leadership roles in the future should take this course.
Paul Keen
Lifetime Fitness (PE)
Lifetime Fitness (PE)
(6th, 7th & 8th Grade)
Lifetime Fitness is our physical education program here at Leander Middle School. This class will focus on lifetime fitness activities and various fun games. Lifetime Fitness is less rigorous and less demanding than Pre-Athletics. Boys that are not interested in playing football in 7th grade should take Lifetime Fitness. Girls that are not interested in playing volleyball or basketball in 7th grade should take Lifetime Fitness.
6th grade students can take one semester of PE with a semester of Dance
Medical Terminology 8205MS - high school credit curriculum with Gateway Medical Detectives (*new offering for 26/27) for 7th & 8th grade students
Keegan Fiero
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre 6745 - 7th-8th Grade course
Musical Theatre provides students the opportunity to explore the world of musical theatre from a performance perspective. The course focuses on showmanship and techniques that are the foundation of musical theatre performance (singing, acting, and dance). Students extend their dance and movement techniques required to sing and dance at the same time. Through rotation between dance, singing, and acting courses, students will learn the skills necessary to perform well on stage. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
Taylor Rodriguez
taylor.rodriguez@leanderisd.org
Erin Chunn
PE PALS 7608 - 7th-8th Grade course
Paul Keen
Principles of Applied Engineering 8313MS - 7th & 8th Grade high school credit course
Using Gateway Design and Modeling along with Automation and Robotics modules, Principles of Applied Engineering provides a solid foundation for applying engineering concepts in real-world scenarios. Students will be introduced to an array of engineering careers and learn about the industry standards in the fields of mechanical, electrical, civil and chemical engineering. Students will collaboratively approach real-world problems and utilize a variety of media to showcase their research and designs with a focus on professionalism.
Keegan Fiero
Principles of Arts & A/V
Principles of Arts & A/V
Principles of Arts & A/V 8464MS - 7th & 8th Grade high school credit course
Principles of Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications allows students to explore and understand the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities. Students will be introduced to topics such as audio/video production, graphic design and illustration, and animation. Projects include: Planning, scripting, and filming a news segment, music video, audio drama, and mini documentary.
Izzy Mendez
Spanish I
Spanish I
Spanish I 5801 - 8th Grade only high school credit language course
Spanish I introduces the basic language skills of showing, viewing, listening, reading, speaking and writing in Spanish. Students will learn vocabulary and grammatical structures necessary to communicate in everyday situations. A variety of videos, student presentations, projects, and dramatizations will reinforce language skills and introduce various aspects of Hispanic culture. Students are expected to take an active role in all oral activities to enhance proper pronunciation.
AP Spanish IV 5802 - 8th Grade only
AP Spanish IV is a university-level course, open to students who express mastery on the AAPPL exam; they speak, read and write Spanish fluently.
Students who pass the AP Spanish Language and Culture exam will obtain college credits, upon successful completion of the course.
Matias Aguilar
Speech/Debate
Speech/Debate
Exploring Speech/Debate 1902 - 6th grade semester course (*new course offering for 26/27)
Speech/Debate 1903 - 7th & 8th grade full year course (*new course offering for 26/27)
Students will develop effective communication skills to further their academic pursuits and to prepare for interaction in social, civic, and professional roles. Competent communicators develop skills focused on five identifiable functions of expressing and responding appropriately to feelings, participating in social traditions, informing, persuading, creating, and imagining. Students will develop and apply skills in using oral language, nonverbal communication, and listening in interpersonal, group, academic, and public contexts. Students will acquire skills to approach controversial issues by practicing argumentation and debate.
Student Aide
Student Aide
(7th & 8th Grade)
(Including Office Aides, Classroom Aides, Techsperts & Library Aides)
Technology Applications 8704 - 7th & 8th Grade course **Can only be taken once
This course will focus on creativity and innovation, communication and collaboration, research and information fluency, critical thinking, problem solving, decision making, digital citizenship, and technology operations and concepts. Students will have the opportunity to make informed decisions by understanding current and emerging technologies, including technology systems, appropriate digital tools, and personal learning networks. Students will have the opportunity to use creative and computational thinking to solve problems while developing transferable readiness skills. Many of these computer applications will be taught using Google Apps for Education. Students will gain experience in keyboarding, slide presentations, spreadsheet applications, website anatomy, email, and file management.
Keegan Fiero
Theatre Arts 6640 - 6th grade semester course
Theatre MS 6642-6842 - 7th & 8th grade theatre full year course
Intro to Tech Theatre 6744 - 7th & 8th grade full year course
In Theatre, you will work on building confidence in acting, technical theatre, and public speaking in an inclusive and accepting environment. Students will learn through creative and collaborative assignments that allow them to embrace new parts of themselves they didn't know they had! In addition, students in theatre are able to join Improv Club, Theatre Club and are able to audition for after-school productions. No prior experience is necessary besides the ability to get outside your comfort zone!
Join theatre today and Leave Your Legacy.
Advanced Theatre
Leander Middle School Advanced Theatre class is the most elite theatre class at LMS. This class is for people who want to dive deeper into theatre knowledge surrounding acting techniques, theatre history, technical theatre, and more. In addition, the Advanced Theatre class competes in the UIL One-Act Play competition, where students will put on a 40-minute play and compete with all other students in the district. When Students rehearse for the UIL One-Act Play, it will require some after-school rehearsal time. This class requires students to be creative, think critically and take chances in the world of theatre. All students must audition to be put into the class with either two contrasting monologues or a technical theatre project.
Theatre Arts MS 2 Advanced Course 6743; Grades 7-8
Prerequisite: Theatre Arts MS 1
Theatre Arts MS 3 Advanced Course 6843; Grade 8
Prerequisite: Theatre Arts MS 2/Theatre Arts MS 2 Advanced
Students in advanced theatre will study advanced acting techniques, production and technology skills, theatre history, modern
theatrical media, and professional preparation for auditioning for professional theatre.
Intro to Tech Theatre
Intro to Tech Theatre
The course focuses on beginning stage craft techniques that are the foundation for technical theatre. The objective of this course is to introduce the student to the fundamental elements and principles of technical theatre through hands-on learning. Students will learn the functions of the creative team, production staff, technicians, and stage crew. Basic elements of scenic construction, design concepts, theatrical lighting, sound technologies, and stage management will be introduced and assessed through practical application. Through projects and onstage productions, students gain the confidence and technique needed to become a skilled technician.
Taylor Rodriguez
taylor.rodriguez@leanderisd.org
Journalism: Yearbook 8770 - 7th & 8th grade course
Interest Form
Students will learn several software programs to publish the school yearbook. Students will work to develop their photography, marketing, and journalistic writing skills. All students who put yearbook on their choice sheet will be emailed a staff agreement for both students and parents to fill out before they can be considered for the class. Filling out the agreement does not guarantee a place in the yearbook class.
Izzy Mendez
PLEASE NOTE: This list is subject to change based on student interest that is gathered during Spring scheduling (2026).
A particular class will not be created if there are not enough students signed up for it.
For more information, please access the Leander ISD Middle School Course Catalog linked at the top of this page.
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