FAQS

Q: Will middle school be hard? Will there be too much homework?

A: Middle school is for sure a step up from elementary school, because over time you will need to learn how to become more and more independent, and how to stay on top of your own work. You will likely be challenged and kept busy, however the workload is manageable. Usually, you will have an hour of work period each day, which should be sufficient time to complete most if not all your homework if you use your time well. Your teachers will be available to answer any questions during work period.

Q: Will I get a printed copy of our schedule?

A: Yes, usually at the beginning of the year you will get a copy of your schedule that you will glue in your planner.

Q: Will I get a locker?

A: 7th and 8th grade will for sure get lockers to keep their stuff in, however with 6th grade, it depends on the class size. (There might not be enough lockers for every middle school student at NSM.)

Q: How many classes will I have?

A: You will have the five main subjects every day: Social Studies, English Language Arts, Science, Math, and PE. You will also have homeroom (work period) every day, and electives on Wednesdays.

Q: Why are there uniforms and will I have to wear it?

A: Yes, you will have to wear the uniforms. They are there for many reasons: it makes it very easy to tell NSM middle school students apart from the other NSM elementary school students. We also wear uniforms to ensure there will be no distractions of any kind during class, because everyone is dressed the same. Uniforms also make it really easy to decide what to wear every day.

Q: Will I still be able to go on the playgrounds?

A: You will be able to go on the 4th and 5th playground during middle school recess. However, you are not allowed on the play structures during lunch.

Q: Is there a sports team at NSM?

A: No, NSM does not have any sports teams. We are looking at options for adding sports, but as a small school it is hard to get enough students together to have a whole team. Ms. Cindy does lead track in the spring and cross country in the fall. Though the sports at NSM are limited, we live in the Bay Area, and are lucky to have so many other teams and outlets available to us.