Academic Pathways

What is an Exploratory Program?

All middle school students are required to take “CORE Academic” classes:  English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, and Reading (Grade 6 only). Over the course of three years at middle school, students will rotate through a number of classes with the goal of exploring a variety of disciplines.  The rotation at each grade level differs and students will be exposed to a number of Unified Arts courses including art, FACS (Family and Consumer Sciences), health, music, physical education and technology.  These classes are a vital part of the middle school experience and fit with the belief that “Middle schools allow students to explore a wide range of learning experiences.”

What is the process for grade level assignment?

The objective of decisions on grade level assignment is to place students at the most appropriate level of instruction to promote future progress and success. Students will be assigned to the next grade level if they pass all of the following required courses each year:

• English

• Mathematics

• Physical Education

• Science

• Social Studies

• Technology

• Reading (Grade 6 only)

• Art (Grade 6 and 7)

• Music (Grade 6 and 7)

• Family & Consumer Sciences (Grade 6 and 7)

• World Language (Grade 7 and 8)  

• Health (Grade 6 and 8)

A student who does not meet this requirement will have his/her case reviewed by staff including teachers, school counselors, and administrators. The review will take into consideration the following factors: age, previous retentions, availability of summer school, and availability of appropriate courses at the next grade level, social development, and potential to make appropriate progress. The final decision for grade placement will be made by the principal and may include a recommendation for summer school or parental acceptance of a specific program or course assignment.  Parents may request a meeting with the building principal to discuss the decision.

How is a student placed in a specific level of a course? (Honors and/or Acceleration)?

Recommendations regarding the placement of a student in specific levels of a course are based on the student’s past performance in the subject as well as the  student’s standardized testing record, where applicable. The subject teacher(s) make a recommendation for the level of instruction appropriate for the next school year using a rubric which takes into consideration various factors. Entry into accelerated courses must adhere to specific course requirements and parents are encouraged to contact the academic administrator of a particular subject area for a more detailed explanation of the selection process.