About West Rocks

Welcome to West Rocks Middle School, a community built on a mission of developing character, service, leadership, and scholarship in every student. As you consider this pivotal next step for your child, we want to share what makes our school a unique and supportive place for students to transition into their teenage years.

At West Rocks, we embrace the diversity of our student body and are committed to a vision of fostering integrity and accountability in a welcoming environment. We believe that learning goes beyond textbooks, which is why we've integrated the Yale RULER program for social-emotional learning (SEL) to help students develop the skills to understand and manage their emotions, setting a foundation for success both in and out of the classroom.

 Distinctive Academic Pathways

We are proud to offer specialized academic programs that set our students on a path to unique opportunities. Your child can:

• Continue Their Bilingual Journey: West Rocks is home to the district's two-way dual-language program, allowing students to build on their elementary school foundations and work towards true bilingualism and biliteracy in English and Spanish.

• Explore the Long Island Sound: Through an exciting partnership with The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, our students are immersed in a hands-on marine science pathway. This program brings the curriculum to life, connecting classroom concepts directly to the vibrant ecosystem in our own backyard.

Beyond these signature programs, our curriculum includes robust offerings in ELA, Math, and a Gifted and Talented program designed to challenge and engage advanced learners.

 A Thriving Arts Community

West Rocks has a strong, nationally-recognized tradition in the visual and performing arts. We believe creativity is essential to educating the whole child and encourage all students to find their voice. Our students can explore a comprehensive arts pathway that includes:

• Music: A vibrant music department featuring band, chorus, and orchestra, giving students a chance to perform, compete, and develop their musical talents.

• Visual Arts: A robust art program that allows students to explore various mediums and techniques, with advanced opportunities available through the Gifted and Talented art program.

• Performance & Media: A dynamic theatre program (Drama Club) for aspiring actors and stage crew, alongside modern media arts and communication arts electives that incorporate technology-based creativity.

Beyond the Bell: Athletics & Activities

The middle school years are a crucial time for exploration. We encourage students to discover new passions and connect with peers through a wide variety of after-school activities. There truly is something for everyone.

• Clubs & Enrichment: Students can join the Esports team, build and fly in the Drone Club, design the school Yearbook, take the stage in the Drama Club, or get their hands dirty in the Gardening Club. Other popular options include the Running Club, Game Club, and Graphic Novel Club.

• Panther Athletics: For students interested in competitive sports, our travel teams compete against other schools in sports like flag football, field hockey, basketball, soccer, and volleyball.

• After-School Support: We also offer the PAWS After-School Program in partnership with Norwalk's Carver Center, providing a structured and enriching environment for students after dismissal.

 A Vision for the Future

This is a particularly exciting time to be joining the West Rocks family. Norwalk Public Schools has recently announced plans for a brand new, state-of-the-art West Rocks Middle School. This future-ready building, set to begin construction in 2027 with a planned opening in Fall 2030, represents a major investment in our students and our community. By joining us now, your family will be part of this exciting transition to a facility designed to support 21st-century learning.

We invite you to learn more and see firsthand how our students are prepared to be good citizens and scholars, ready for high school and beyond.