ELA, MATH, SCIENCE, SOCIAL STUDIES
Students will take the four core classes and 2-3 electives depending on their PE credits earned. Students have the option of taking Advanced ELA in both 7th and 8th grades. 8th graders can choose Advanced Social Studies as well. Students must qualify for Advanced Math.
Leander ISD’s middle school Advanced English Language Arts program is designed to meet the needs of students who excel in language arts. The purpose of the program is to challenge students in the area of language arts and to prepare them for success in high school advanced courses. Students in Advanced English Language Arts receive instruction in the grade level curriculum that provides a greater depth and complexity, meeting these students’ need for academic challenge. Students are expected to have a higher commitment to the rigor of the enriched curriculum requirements.
Leander ISD’s Middle School Math Pathway 2 is designed to meet the needs of students who excel in mathematics. The purpose of the Leander ISD Middle School Math Pathway 2 course offerings (Math 6/7, Math 7/8 , and Algebra I Advanced) are to challenge students in the area of mathematics and to prepare them for success in future Advanced Math courses.
Click below for more information about our Math Pathways.
Eighth grade Social Studies Advanced is an open enrollment course with no prerequisites. The curriculum is based on the 8th grade social studies state standards, but emphasizes the critical thinking skills of analysis, evalutaiton and syntheses in preparation for Advanced Placement courses at the high school level. Additional focus is placed on inquiry, interpretation of historical documents, analysis of data from written and visual sources, and the evaluation, application and presentation of information.
This class is great for students who...
Life Fitness, Athletics, Dance class, Dance Team, Cheer, and Colorguard.
You must have two years of PE in middle school.
Girls Life Fitness and Boys Life Fitness will focus on various games and sports. Sports taught are Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Badminton, Frisbee, Flag Football, Track, Mat ball, Kickball and many other games. Lockers are provided on request. The PE uniform is gray shirt and blue shorts, or blue shirt and gray shorts. A physical activity credit is not a requirement for 8th grade as long as the student has two years of PE in middle school.
IF YOU SIGN UP FOR THIS CLASS, YOU WILL BE PLAYING FOOFTBALL AND ON A TEAM!
Boys Athletics is available to 7th and 8th grade students who want to play football at RBMS. There are no tryouts—everyone who signs up will be part of the team. The football class begins on the first day of school, while other sports such as cross country, track, and soccer take place before or after school and require tryouts, as not everyone will make those teams. Students interested in basketball who do not play football must begin the year in PE or another elective and will be added to the athletic period if they make the team. All athletes must have a physical on file, sign an athletic contract, and maintain passing grades in every class to remain eligible under the “No Pass, No Play” rule. The school provides all necessary equipment except workout gear, which costs $30.
Girls Athletics is designed for students who are passionate about running, teamwork, and competition. Students should join because they truly want to participate—not just because their friends are signing up. While you don’t need to be in the athletics class to try out for a sport, if you make the basketball or volleyball team, you’ll be placed in the athletics class. Sports offered include volleyball, with tryouts beginning on the second day of school; basketball in November; soccer in April; track season starting in February; and cross country in August. No other sport requires a placement in athletics as they practice before and/or after school. A current physical is required to participate in any sport, and students must maintain a grade of 70 or higher in all classes to stay eligible. The athletic uniform costs $10 for the shirt and $10 for the shorts, and meals are optional for team members. Athletics is a full-year commitment that encourages dedication, responsibility, and school spirit.
RBMS Cheer is an exciting and spirited program for 7th and 8th grade students who love to lead, perform, and represent their school with pride. Cheerleaders promote school spirit at games, pep rallies, and campus events while learning teamwork, leadership, and performance skills. Students can also apply to be the Cougar Mascot, bringing energy and fun to every school event. To get started, students and parents should join the Google Classroom for important updates and details. A mandatory parent meeting will be held in the Running Brushy Middle School library, and a parent or guardian must attend for the student to try out. For questions or additional information, contact Coach Carice Griggs at carice.griggs@leanderisd.org. Let’s go, Cougars!
The 7th and 8th Grade Color Guard class is a fun, performance-based course that welcomes all students—no audition or prior experience required! It counts as both a P.E. and/or elective credit and allows students to learn the fundamentals of flag work, dance, and choreography. Throughout the year, students perform at exciting events such as Friday Night Lights with the LHS Marching Band, the Spring Color Guard Showcase, multiple RBMS pep rallies, and in-class performances. The class is free to join and flexible for students who also participate in other fine arts or athletic activities. Under the direction of Ms. Allison Petro, Color Guard offers a creative and supportive environment where students can develop new performance skills and be part of a spirited team.
The Silver Stars are a spirited performance team that proudly represents RBMS at football and basketball games, pep rallies, competitions, district dance shows, and community events throughout the year. As a member of this close-knit family, you’ll work as part of a team that supports and encourages one another while continuing to refine your dance and performance skills. Silver Stars counts as a PE credit and/or elective and requires a full-year commitment, including summer camps in July and August. The estimated first-year cost is approximately $550, which covers camp and team merchandise, with scholarships available; returning members have minimal costs since the same merchandise is reused. To join, you must attend the mandatory informational meeting, participate in a four-day Star Clinic, and complete a team fitting. For full details, visit the “How to Join the Team” link on the dance website, and join the Google Classroom if you’re an interested candidate.
Are you an experienced dancer, currently training at a studio, or passionate about continuing dance throughout middle school and into high school? Then this full-year dance class is for you! Designed for students who are serious about dance and committed to growing as performers, this class explores a variety of dance styles and techniques while preparing for required performances throughout the year. Students will refine their skills, develop artistry, and work together as part of a dedicated dance community. If you’re new to dance, we recommend trying the semester dance class first to see if it’s right for you. Please note that this course is not intended for those planning to pursue athletics or cheerleading. A $12 purchase of a Dance Department tank top is required.
Dance 2/3 is designed for students who have successfully completed Dance 1 (semester or full year) or Dance 2 and wish to continue developing their dance skills without joining the dance team. This course is perfect for dancers who want to deepen their understanding of technique, creativity, and performance. Students will build upon the skills learned in previous dance classes, explore new styles, and participate in units that encourage collaboration, choreography, and artistic expression. Performance opportunities will be available throughout the year, allowing dancers to showcase their growth and talent. A $15 purchase of a Dance Department uniform is required for dressing out.
Students in 6 th , 7 th and 8 th grades can apply for Off Campus PE (OCPE) if they are involved in an outside sport and meet the requirements. See the OCPE section of the LISD course catalog for more information. Application deadline is the Friday after the last day of school and is posted on the OCPE information page the Leander ISD website.
The mxINC Entrepreneurship course gives students the opportunity to think like innovators and business leaders by learning real-world skills from successful entrepreneurs. In this hands-on class, students will design, create, and run their own mini-businesses—making real decisions and managing real money. Through the design process, they’ll solve problems creatively while developing essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, financial management, marketing, and public speaking. This course is perfect for curious, motivated students who enjoy collaboration and want to learn how to turn ideas into action. No prior experience is needed—just creativity, enthusiasm, and a passion for exploring the exciting world of business and innovation.
The Medical Detectives course gives students the exciting opportunity to step into the role of real-life investigators as they collect and analyze medical data to diagnose diseases and solve medical mysteries. This hands-on, collaborative, and student-centered class encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving through engaging, real-world scenarios. Students will also have the chance to connect with professionals from various medical fields to gain insight into healthcare careers. No prior experience is required—everything needed will be taught in class. The only cost to participate is enthusiasm, positivity, teamwork, and a strong work ethic, making this course perfect for curious, motivated students interested in science and medicine.
The Fundamentals of Computer Science course introduces students to the exciting world of programming, design, and innovation. Through Computer Science for Innovators and Makers, students will explore how hardware and software work together to create real-world solutions by programming for the physical world. In App Creators, they will dive into the fundamentals of computer science and computational thinking while designing and developing their own mobile apps. No prior experience is needed—students will learn everything in class through hands-on, creative projects that encourage problem-solving and collaboration. The only cost to participate is enthusiasm, positivity, and teamwork, and students who successfully complete the course will earn one high school elective credit, giving them a strong foundation for future studies in technology and engineering.
The Leadership course helps students develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Through team-building activities, students learn how to collaborate effectively, solve problems, and achieve common goals. They also build self-confidence by understanding how social experiences shape self-concept and by practicing professional communication. The class emphasizes public speaking, giving students opportunities to create and deliver engaging presentations on topics they are passionate about. In addition, students explore responsibility by examining how attitudes and actions influence outcomes and by learning about personal financial responsibility. The course also introduces college and career readiness, allowing students to research different educational and vocational pathways. Finally, through community service, students discover the importance of giving back and leading with purpose—developing the qualities of strong, compassionate leaders.
The Multimedia Productions class teaches students how to create professional-quality media projects such as websites, newsletters, and audio or video productions. Through hands-on experience, students explore broadcast journalism, storytelling, and various production techniques including lighting, camera operation, script writing, and shot composition. They also learn about the elements of art and design while producing campus-wide audio and video announcement broadcasts. This course helps students develop technical skills, creativity, and teamwork as they gain practical experience in A/V broadcasting, production, and editing.
The Principles of Applied Engineering course introduces students to the exciting world of design, modeling, and robotics. Through hands-on projects, students explore the design process while learning how creativity, engineering, and innovation impact everyday life. In the automation and robotics portion, they study mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. No prior experience is required—students will gain all the knowledge and skills they need during the course. With enthusiasm, positivity, and teamwork as the only costs to participate, this class offers a fun and engaging way to build real-world problem-solving skills. Additionally, students who successfully complete the course will earn one high school elective credit, giving them a strong head start toward future STEM studies.
The Technology Applications course provides students with hands-on experience in two key areas—Information Management and Graphic Design. In Information Management, students explore technology systems, digital tools, and personal learning networks while developing essential readiness skills through creative and computational problem-solving. Using Google Apps for Education, students will gain practical experience in keyboarding, coding, slide presentations, spreadsheets, website structure, email, and file management. In the Graphic Design portion, students learn the elements of design and apply them to documents, photo and video editing, website creation, and even 3D design projects. Both areas emphasize digital citizenship and computational thinking, helping students build valuable technical and creative skills that prepare them for future academic and professional success.
The AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program at Running Brushy Middle School is designed for motivated students who are committed to academic success and preparing for college. AVID helps students develop strong organizational, study, and critical-thinking skills while fostering determination and responsibility. Participants receive weekly tutoring support from real college students and engage in activities that promote collaboration and leadership. The program also provides opportunities for college visits, helping students envision their future education goals. AVID is ideal for students who want to consistently earn A’s and B’s, want to stay organized, and are eager to explore a four-year college path after high school. Applications for rising 7th graders are required, and interested students can join the AVID Google Classroom for updates. in s
Creative Writing is the perfect course for students who love to imagine, invent, and express their ideas through storytelling. In this engaging class, students will write short stories across a variety of exciting genres, including fantasy, science fiction, and horror. They’ll also have the opportunity to create theatrical plays, some of which will be performed by the RBMS Advanced Theatre class, and screenplays that will be produced into short films on campus. This course encourages creativity, collaboration, and confidence in writing, allowing every student to share their unique voice and bring their stories to life. Everyone has an imagination—Creative Writing is where yours can shine!
Spanish 1 is an exciting and fast-paced course designed for students who want to challenge themselves academically while learning a new language. In this class, students will develop the ability to read, write, speak, and understand Spanish through engaging lessons and interactive activities. Along the way, they will also explore the rich and diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, gaining both language skills and cultural appreciation. Because this course follows the high school Spanish 1 curriculum, students who successfully complete it will earn credit and be eligible to advance directly to Spanish 2 in high school. Get ready to have fun, learn a lot, and open the door to new global opportunities!
The QUEST (Quality Utilization and Enrichment of Student Talents) program provides a challenging and enriching learning experience for students through project-based learning and critical thinking activities in language arts, math, social studies, and science. This course encourages collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving while allowing students to explore topics in depth and make meaningful connections across subjects. Students typically qualify for QUEST by scoring in the top 5% on assessments measuring creativity, logic, and intelligence; however, those who demonstrate strong potential and interest may also apply for entry. QUEST is designed for motivated learners who thrive on curiosity, innovation, and academic exploration.
8TH GRADE ONLY
Prerequisite(s): Spanish III or test placement
Spanish IV AP Language and Culture course emphasizes communication (understanding and being understood by others) by applying the interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations. This includes vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. The course strives not to overemphasize grammatical accuracy at the expense of communication and engages students in an exploration of culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. The course develops students’ awareness and appreciation of cultural products (e.g., tools, books, music, laws, conventions, institutions); practices (patterns of social interactions within a culture); and perspectives (values, attitudes, and assumptions). To best facilitate the study of language and culture, the course is taught almost exclusively in Spanish. This course prepares students to take the AP Exam.
Students successfully completing Spanish IV AP at middle school will receive one high school LOTE credit, but the course grades will be excluded from the student’s high school grade point average (GPA).
Student Aides at RBMS play an important role in supporting the daily operations of the school and helping staff across different departments. These responsible and dependable students assist in the office, counseling office, library, technology department, and classrooms, making a positive impact on the entire campus community. Serving as a student aide helps develop valuable skills such as organization, communication, and leadership. Those interested in applying must complete the online Student Aide Application. Students who wish to work specifically in the library should also see Mrs. Griggs for an additional library aide application. This course is a great opportunity for students who enjoy helping others and want to contribute to the success of their school.
The Journalism: Yearbook class offers students a hands-on opportunity to help create the school’s yearbook while learning essential skills in writing, design, and photography. Open to 7th and 8th graders with no prerequisites, the course emphasizes teamwork, creativity, and attention to detail. Yearbook staff members document the entire school year by taking photos at events, conducting interviews, designing pages, and developing themes that capture school spirit. The class also focuses on collaboration, communication, and meeting deadlines—key skills for any aspiring journalist or designer. Interested students must complete a course agreement form with a parent or guardian by the deadline, as late submissions are placed on a waitlist. This course is ideal for students who enjoy writing, creativity, and celebrating their school community.
This course is filled with projects and activities that will boost your critical thinking habits, improve your collaborative participation, grow your creativity and develop your communication skills through writing, talking about, and MAKING art!
We will explore and examine many different kinds of art through fun learning experiences. We do not expect every student to be a master artist, but we do want you to always try your best and have an open creative mind.
There is a $12 art fee to cover materials.
This course is filled with projects and activities for students that have--or sincerely want--more advanced creating skills. This course will boost your critical thinking habits, improve your collaborative participation, grow your creativity and develop your communication skills through writing, talking about, and MAKING art!
This class is a great option for 7th grade students who want to prepare for Art 1 in 8th grade.
If you are an 8th grader who really enjoys art and are deciding between Advanced Art and Art 1, I would suggest taking Art 1 so that you can get high school credit and go directly into more advanced art classes in high school.
This course is filled with projects and activities for students that have--or sincerely want--more advanced creating skills. You do not need to have taken art in middle school to be eligible for this class. You just need a love for art.
As long as you pass this class, you will have earned high school credit for Art I at the end of your 8th grade year. Which will allow you to go directly into more advanced art classes in high school that focus on specific art mediums such as ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting, digital art, and animation.
Theatre I is an engaging, acting-focused year long course designed to help students build confidence and develop their performance skills on stage. This class introduces the fundamentals of theatre through creative, hands-on projects that encourage collaboration and self-expression. Students participate in ensemble-building activities, improvised scenes, and theatrical design projects, while also taking part in the class play, which includes opportunities to explore acting, technical, and design roles. Theatre I provides a fun and supportive environment where students can grow as performers, work as a team, and discover their passion for the dramatic arts.
Advanced Theatre is a dynamic, year-long course designed for 7th and 8th grade students who have demonstrated advanced acting and performance skills. Admission is by audition only, ensuring a focused and dedicated group of young performers. This project-based class allows students to explore multiple aspects of theatre, including improvisation, devised scenes, playwriting, theatrical design, and stagecraft. Students will take part in traveling plays, student-directed projects, and collaborative work with the creative writing program to produce original performances. The course also features exciting opportunities such as field trips, musical theatre, and music video projects, giving students a comprehensive and immersive theatre experience that builds creativity, leadership, and artistic expression.
Introduction to Technical Theatre is a hands-on, project-based course that gives students an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes work that brings a production to life. Over the course of the year, students will explore key aspects of theatre production through detailed projects focused on costume design and sewing, lighting design and programming, sound design and engineering, scenic painting and set construction, and makeup design with special effects. This class is perfect for students who enjoy creativity, craftsmanship, and problem-solving, offering them the opportunity to develop practical technical skills while contributing to the magic of live performance.
Beginning Band is the perfect place to start your musical journey! You don’t need any prior experience—almost all of our students have never played an instrument before, and that’s exactly what we’re here to teach you. To join, simply put Band FIRST on your elective choice sheet. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll meet with an RBMS Band Director who will help you choose the instrument that’s the best fit for you. Students can select from a wide variety of instruments, including woodwinds (flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone), brass (trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba), and percussion (mallet keyboard, timpani, cymbals, snare drum, and more). In Beginning Band, you’ll learn how to read music, play your instrument, and perform with others as part of an exciting and supportive group. Come join the RBMS Band and discover the joy of making music together!
There is a place for everyone in 7th and 8th Grade Band! Our ability-based bands—Honors, Symphonic, Concert 1, and Concert 2—ensure that you’ll be surrounded by musicians who are learning and performing at the same level as you. Whether you’ve been playing for years or are still building your skills, you’ll find a supportive and exciting environment where you can grow as a musician. Every day in band class, you’ll make music, have fun, and experience the joy of being part of a team that shares your passion.
The 7th/8th Grade JV Tenor Bass Choir is designed for beginning tenor bass (male) singers as well as experienced tenor bass singers. No audition is necessary. Students in this choir will learn how to read music, sing, and perform in concerts and competitions, with several performances scheduled outside of the school day. The cost includes a $20 choir fee and a $15 choir shirt, with additional fees for formal attire checkout—financial assistance is available if needed. Fundraisers and an optional end-of-year fun trip are also part of the experience. Choir fits well with other fine arts, athletics, or dance classes, and schedules are coordinated to support participation in multiple activities.
The 7th/8th Grade Advanced Tenor Bass Choir is a program designed for experienced male singers with at least one year of choir experience. Students in this class will develop their musical skills, learn to read music, and perform at concerts and competitions throughout the year. An audition is required to join, and there is a small choir fee to cover attire and other costs—though financial support is available to ensure everyone can participate. The cost includes a $20 choir fee and a $15 choir shirt, with additional fees for formal attire checkout. Choir coordinates with other electives and athletics for flexible scheduling.
The 7th/8th Grade JV Treble Choir is open to beginning treble (female) singers or those not already in the Advanced Treble Choir, and no audition is required. Students will learn to read music, sing, and perform both in concerts and competitions, with several performance opportunities outside of school. Singing solos is not mandatory, though optional auditions are available. The cost includes a $20 choir fee plus a $15 choir shirt, and additional fees may apply for events like formal attire checkout—financial support is available. The choir also participates in fundraising and has an optional fun trip each year. It’s possible to take Choir alongside other fine arts or electives like athletics and dance, as the schedule is coordinated with other extracurriculars.
The 7th/8th Grade Advanced Treble Choir is for advanced treble (female) singers who have at least one full year of choir experience. An audition is required to join, and interested students should contact the director for more information. In this choir, students will learn to read music, sing, and perform at concerts and competitions, including performances outside the regular school day. The cost includes a $20 choir fee and a $15 choir shirt, with additional fees for formal attire—financial assistance is available if needed. The choir also participates in fundraising and offers an optional end-of-year fun trip. Choir can be taken alongside other electives, such as athletics or dance, with coordinated schedules to ensure students can participate in multiple activities.
Following the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages guidelines, all World Languages courses are conducted mainly in the target language. Students who plan to register for any World Language course and are already proficient in the language, may take an exam to receive credit for the language, or advance to upper levels. The student may skip levels based on the outcomes of the exam. Leander ISD offers ACTFL exams to determine proficiency in more than 100 languages. Credit is awarded based on the proficiency level of the student. To register for the exam, please see your school counselor.
Examination for Acceleration (EA) allows students who, without prior instruction, have already mastered content and skills in a particular course, to receive credit for a course and advance to the next level. Students take a designated criterion-referenced exam which covers the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and major learning for the course for which they wish credit. Leander ISD currently utilizes exams provided by The University of Texas UT High School. Exam for Acceleration registration is available through the school counselor. Per TEA, the district provides four EA testing windows during the year. Specific testing windows and registration deadlines for EA are posted on District and Campus websites. Parents and students may get additional information about EA from school counselors.
QUEST is an acronym for Quality Utilization and Enrichment of Student Talents. In middle school, QUEST Studies is Leander ISD’s enrichment elective designed to meet both the affective and academic needs of the top 8-10% of the campus's gifted population. It aims to develop the individual talents and strengths of the gifted learner to ensure readiness for self actualization and pursuit of personalized learning pathways in middle, high school, and beyond. Students in grades K-12 may be nominated for gifted services at any time by teachers, counselors, administrators, parents, self, or peers for testing completed during specific testing windows in the winter and spring. This course is open to non GT students based on application and availible seats. For additional information, see the QUEST G/T page of the Leander ISD website.
Students who want to pursue advanced math above Pathway 2 may take take an exam for acceration in the Spring/Summer. To take the EA exam, contact your school counselor. All students are screened and placed into the appropriate pathway during the Spring of each subsequent school year. Students will remain on this pathway unless the need or request to move to another pathway arises. Identification of students for Pathway 3 begins with 2025-2026 6th graders.
Click below for more information about our Advanced Math Pathways Program:
During a student's years in middle school, some families may consider options where their student takes courses not offered at RBMS. Typically, this is an outcome of a student seeking ways to earn credit for specific high school courses not available in grades six through eight. As a result, families typically consider correspondence courses through two commonly utilized providers: The University of Texas High School Online or Texas Tech High School Online.
When decisions are made to pursue this option, they are independent of RBMS. The family takes on the cost and logistics associated with the course and the student takes the course outside the school day. Despite the fact that these courses are taken aside from RBMS, students who choose this path are encouraged to talk to their grade level counselor. It is important to understand the high school planning implications of these decisions as well as the documentation required by our registrar to award credit.
Both UTHS and TTHS are now providing the option for parents to proctor their child's exam.
Before enrolling in a correspondence course, prior approval from the grade level counselor is needed.
Board Policy states the following:
The Superintendent or designee shall establish procedures governing the use of other distance learning courses, including correspondence courses, as a means of earning credit in a subject or course. In order to receive credit, a student shall obtain approval from the principal or designee prior to enrollment in the course.
Correspondence, Distance & Virtual Courses
Students may take correspondence, distance, or virtual courses outside of the school day at their own expense. Credit toward state graduation requirements will be granted only if all of the following conditions are met:
The course is offered through UT High School, Texas Tech University High School, or the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN).
The course is approved before enrollment using the Coursework Approval Form.
Approval Process
For students planning to take the next course in sequence:
Submit the Coursework Approval Form by the last Friday in February.
Complete the course by July 25.
Ensure the course credit is posted to the transcript by August 1 in order to advance.
For students taking a course only for graduation requirements:
All graduation-required courses must be completed by the end of the fall semester of senior year.
The provider’s transcript must be submitted at least 30 days before graduation in order to participate in ceremonies.
Approval decisions will consider:
Successful completion of prerequisite courses.
Impact on campus scheduling, staffing, and instructional capacity.
Additional Guidelines for Students & Families
GPA & Class Rank: Grades from TxVSN and Proximity Learning courses count toward GPA and class rank. Grades from other correspondence, distance, or virtual courses do not.
NCAA Eligibility: Student-athletes must confirm with the NCAA if a course counts toward core curriculum. Visit the NCAA Eligibility Center for details.
Completion: A course is not considered complete until the final grade is submitted and recorded by the campus registrar.