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Middle School

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In the Middle School, West Sound Academy lives its mission of cultivating confident, intellectually curious and open-minded young adults who are prepared to contribute responsibly to their world.  Middle School at West Sound Academy addresses the need for exploration while simultaneously providing a respectful, supportive, inclusive and safe environment; both facets carefully designed to meet students’ developmental needs.

The Middle School course of study presents an important body of knowledge and skills but also a mode of inquiry that fosters understanding and respect. Investigation, inquiry and service in the classroom and beyond its walls enhance learning. The program develops:

  • Critical and creative thinking demonstrated through writing, speaking, media and action
  • Social and emotional strength reflected in a respect for others, the environment and the broader community
  • Cultural awareness and a sense of connection to the broader world
  • Self-management including time management and the ability to set and achieve goals
  • Ethical judgment and behavior from inclusivity to understanding and respecting boundaries between self and others.

Our academic program, outlined below, includes courses in Math, Science, English, History, French, Spanish, Art, Music, Drama and Physical Education. Technology is used as a tool to enhance learning across the disciplines. Staff from the Library and Instructional Technology work closely with teachers to assure that students seamlessly develop word processing and research skills in the context of class assignments and apply those skills through participation in the National History Day competition.

The partnership between Middle School parents, teachers and students includes:

  • An assigned Advocate to be a primary source of information and support for student and parent
  • Consistent communication from teacher to parents through email, conferences, narratives  and report cards
  • Web-based homework calendar
  • Student school email address
  • Opportunities to attend events displaying student work or performances
  • Safe environment for students to advocate for themselves with teachers and parents
  • Community building and experiential learning activities
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    Click photo to see images from Middle School service project at a community garden in October, 2011

    The Middle School Curriculum

    The curriculum in the Middle School is intended to meet the needs of students that arrive with a variety of elementary educational experiences.  Focused on developing higher thinking skills, organizational tools and the ability to problem-solve, students are prepared to succeed in Upper School and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

    Courses include:
    Humanities – History & English
    Foreign Language – Spanish or French
    Experimental Sciences – Marine Biology, Earth Science and Physics
    Mathematics
    Visual Art & Physical Education
    Technology & Music
    Other Electives – Drama, Poetry, Dance, Yearbook

    See WSA Course Catalog 2012-2013.
     
    © 2013 West Sound Academy.