scheduling frequently asked questions

What courses are required at Asa Clark Middle School?

6th-8th grade students are required to take Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, & Fitness (Gym/Health). In 6th grade, students are required to take the 4 exploratory classes. This includes STEAM Explore, World Language Explore, Physical Education, and either Band or Music Appreciation & Performance. At the 7th grade level, all students are required to take a World Language. World Language options are Spanish, French, and Mandarin Chinese. Lastly, students are required to take Code to Create while at ACMS. Students have the choice to fulfill this requirement either their 7th or 8th grade year.

How many electives will I have in my schedule?

Students will select from a list of over 15 different elective courses in 7th and 8th grade. Students have room in their schedule for six semester long courses per year. Students have three electives each semester, in addition to Fitness & Health that is year long. While most of our elective courses are semester classes, a few are year long or two semesters and will take up two of the six spots. World Language classes and the required Code to Create class are included in these six.

When will I receive my schedule for the next year?

At the middle school, we begin the scheduling process in January, and custom-design our scheduling based on the elective courses that students select. Finalized student schedules usually become available in July.

Are classes grade-specific?

All core classes, elective offerings, and lunch are grade level specific. This means that students will have class with their same-aged peers.

Is it possible to make schedule changes?

Once you receive your final schedule, we are not able to make schedule changes unless there is a genuine error. This is because the entire ACMS schedule and staffing is created based on the selections a student originally indicates they want to take. Because of this, it is critical that students make these decisions carefully.

Can I make specific requests for my child's schedule?

You are always able to make requests, but we cannot guarantee that these requests are able to be honored. In addition, we do not take individual requests for house placement with specific students or teachers. However, we are committed to ensuring your child feels supported both academically and socially-emotionally while in middle school.

If I have an 8th grade student, and I have questions or requests regarding my child's 9th grade schedule, who should I contact?

You will need to contact the appropriate PHS School Counselor regarding any questions or concerns regarding high school courses or scheduling. Please contact PHS Counseling Secretary Koren Ewert at 262.695.5011 to be directed to the appropriate counselor.

What elective classes should my child take in middle school? How do we choose with so many options?

The options are extensive, and we know that this can make the decisions overwhelming at times. Here are a couple of tips:
- - Please encourage your child to select courses that align with their interests - and not that of their peers. We often have multiple sections of courses, so even if two students select the same elective classes, there is a likelihood that they will be in different sections of the class.
  - Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring different interests. All of our electives are rigorous classes with academic standards. There aren't "right" or "wrong" decisions. Additionally, the electives that are available to 7th graders and also available to 8th graders. Therefore, if a student isn't able to take a class one year, it is an option for the next year. Encourage your child to pursue their individual interests, and explore new horizons.
  - If you child needs guidance with making their selections, feel free to contact the school counselor.

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