SMS subscribes
to a philosophy that the unique needs of students in grades
6 through 8 can best be met in a middle school setting
providing a student-centered program. The middle school plan recognizes
that students of this age are undergoing greater physiological,
psychological, and social re-orientation than at any other
period in their lives.
We strive to
meet the educational, developmental, and social needs
that emerge in this transitional period. Our program goals provide a supportive environment so students will have opportunities to develop
skills and explore a variety of learning experiences
while making the transition from elementary to high school.
In keeping with this philosophy, Spearfish
Middle School provides:
- · A
core curriculum of language arts, math, science, and
social studies.
- · Exploratory
classes
to help students discover and expand their interests
and abilities. Those classes include Spanish, Art, Computer Science,
Choir/Music, Band, Physical Education/Health and Taking Charge.
- · A
counseling program with one full-time and one part-time counselor.
- · A
supportive environment for the physical and social development
of every student.
- · A
gradual transition in programs from the self-contained
classroom of the 5th grade to the departmentalized structure
of the high school.
- · Activity-oriented/sports programs to accommodate
the needs of the early adolescent.
- · A
positive climate that fosters self-esteem, self-discipline,
and student responsibility.
- · Close
contact and communication between parents and school.
- · Opportunities
for intervention and acceleration when needs are identified.
These goals can be reached when the
student, the parent, and the teacher work together to succeed
in the acceptance of the responsibility of education.
- We strive to empower the student to
attend school regularly; maintain a positive attitude;
make an effort to achieve their goals;
- Support parents in their efforts to
be supportive of the school system and encourage the student to be responsible in their academic pursuits;
- Support teachers to strive for an optimal,
professional approach to meet the individual needs of each
student.
When these responsibilities are met, maximum
learning can be achieved.
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