Middle School Academics
Standards
Educational standards describe what students should know and be able to do in each subject in each grade. In California, the State Board of Education decides on the standards for all students, from kindergarten through high school.
Visit the California Department of Education website for a list of current standards by subject.
Frameworks
Curriculum frameworks provide guidance for implementing the standards adopted by the State Board of Education.
See curriculum frameworks below by subject
Middle School Curriculum
Our campuses foster powerful learning opportunities both in the classroom and through a vast array of extracurricular activities. Our middle school students are challenged to tackle real-world problems on a daily basis. This inspires them to think creatively and critically. Furthermore, we encourage students to collaborate, listen to differing viewpoints, and ultimately learn from one another in an environment that promotes respect for intellectual diversity.
Our curriculum fosters learning through academic discussions in and out of the classroom and hands-on learning experiences that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Through our 1:1 Chromebook program (one laptop for every student), classroom technology, and robust Library Media Centers on both campuses, our students are further encouraged to explore and satisfy their curiosity in learning environments that will ensure success in the 21st century.
Middle School Courses
To prepare our middle school students for future success, we focus on the following academic core requirements, with some available at honors levels:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics): earth science, computer science, coding, chemistry, physics, biology, pre-algebra, algebra, algebra II
- English: grammar, vocabulary, literature, and writing
- Social Studies: ancient history, world studies and U.S. history
- VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts): dance, theater, chorus, ceramics, 3D sculpture, drawing, graphic design, painting
- Music: beginning, intermediate, and advanced band
- Communication Studies: public speaking, debate, and speech
- Physical Education: team and individual sports, personal fitness, and wellness program
Our middle schools also offer electives to quench further our student’s thirst to learn and enrich their academic development:
- Creative Writing
- Information & Digital Literacy
- Keyboarding
- Spanish Literature
- Speech & Debate
- Social Justice
- Leadership
- Consumer Science
- Health & Nutrition
- Conflict Mediation
- CPA (College Preparatory Academy)