Higgins Middle School
Philosophy
This middle school will be able to nurture the students with their physical development, mental growth, academic progress, community relations, and adaptation to the changing society.
Vision
Organizational Components
- Administrative Office
- Art facility
- Cafeteria
- Auditorium
- Classroom
- Common areas/courtyards
- Gymnasium
- Health Services
- Lobby
- Media Center
- Multipurpose Rooms
- Music Room
- Restrooms
- Science Facility
Organizational Components
Interdisciplinary Team Organization: This is going to overall effect the students learning environment. Teaming is important because it promotes student's overall development and learning. Teachers feel a sense of accomplishment when they are involved with teaming because it has a positive impact. In Higgins middle school, the teams will be within the three grade levels (sixth through eighth), and they will be divided into 3 teams within the grade level. With the teams within the grade level, they will be 2 teachers for each group. The students will be grouped by ability. It will be hetero-genus. It is shown that teams lead to a positive student attitude, increased student achievement, and increased parental contacts.
Advisory Program: Advisory programs are to build the community and the needs of adolescents, whether it is socially and emotionally. Teachers and students during advisory see if the students have any concerns, and planning for high school. An advisory program creates and Adult Advocate. An Adult Advocate could be a mentor, representative, or a cheerleader. It is important for students to have an Adult Advocate is to have someone they can relate to. The different Advisory Topics would consist of: Team building, expectations, Fun Activities, and Self-Identity.
Advisory Ideas
Self Esteem: Self-esteem has been compared to a bucket of water. It starts out full when we're born, but whenever we develop negative beliefs about ourselves, it's like poking little holes in that bucket and our self-esteem drips out.* Have the group brainstorm a list of things we do or say to ourselves or to others that pokes holes in the self-esteem bucket. Put this list on the wall to serve as a constant reminder.
Fun Activity: . Birthday Line Up....students line up in order of their birthday without talking
Curriculum: Core Subjects
Curriculum: Non-Core Subjects
Curriculum: Special Learning Opportunities
Honors classes: Honors classes are designed for students who consistently learn quickly and enjoy the challenge of intense, in-depth learning. Honors courses include an emphasis on abstract material and require students to have self-discipline and the commitment to meet rigorous expectations.
Exploratory World Language:
Exploratory World Language may be offered in grades 6, 7 and 8. This yearlong course allows students to explore French, German, Latin and Spanish and introduces the importance of sign language.
Students will also be able to participate in year-long courses in Art, Band, Chorus, and Theater.
Instruction
Family and Community Contribution
Overall Success of School: The family and community is very important when it comes to a students success. Students develop valuable skills that are different from inside of the classroom. Extracurricular activities are an example. Extracurricular activities could consist of: Basketball, Volunteering, Family Activities, and Hobbies. In extracurricular activities students learn about leadership, problem solving, time management, teamwork, and cooperation.