COMMUNITY QUESTION

A single 6-8 school with over 1300 students sounds really big. Wouldn’t having students in smaller schools be better? 

Both High Rock and Pollard currently use a cluster model to create a smaller “school within a school” feel. Each cluster of approximately 90-100 students has a team of teachers in the four core subjects — English Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies — who provide instruction and support, intentional communication, and planned opportunities. This approach helps the transition from elementary to high school by creating smaller, more supportive learning communities. 

The cluster model would continue to be used in a 6-8 Pollard school, with a building designed specifically to support this model. Each cluster will have a “neighborhood” setting within a distinct, grade-specific area of the building while a centrally-located “hub” will house the spaces and programs that are used by all students, including arts and wellness programs; the cafeteria, library, gyms, and auditorium; and nursing, guidance, and special education services.  

This instructional model and building design will allow students to benefit from the larger shared facilities and resources of a unified middle school campus while maintaining a smaller school feel. 

PHOTOS

Existing Building Conditions at Pollard