Why restructure the program?

Students often fear the many changes and challenges associated with a move from Elementary School to the Middle School program. The Elementary School has addressed some of the challenges by restructuring the 5th grade daily schedule beginning in the fall of 2007. In the familiar and comfortable environment that the students know, our new 5th grade format will serve as a stepping-stone or introduction for things to come in the Middle School.

The new model program also provides opportunities for teachers to specialize in particular subject areas. With the increase in knowledge and information continuing to expand at ever increasing rates, it has been a challenge to meet curricula expectations following the traditional 5th grade model.

How will the new model work?

The students will be assigned to a homeroom teacher. The homeroom teacher will also serve as the 1st period instructor. The students will move together throughout the day with this group. Following homeroom and the first period of the day, the students will change classrooms two times with their group and will have the opportunity to get to study with each of the three 5th grade teachers.

The teachers will be specializing in the following subject areas of their expertise:

Ms. Thompson: Language Arts
Mrs. Cocchiaro: Math and Science
Miss Kyzer: Social Studies and Bible

What special privileges will students enjoy?

Each student will be assigned his or her own locker. The lockers are 15” x 24” and will not allow space for rolling backpacks. They are the same size as the lockers found in the Middle School and will assist students in becoming accustomed to their use.

Students will benefit from the different teaching styles of each instructor, which will assist them in the future as they shift to Middle and High Schools.

What about parties and field trips?

Classroom parties, field trips, etc. will occur with the homeroom class. Room mothers will be appointed to assist with special events.

Will the students still have "Specials"?

Yes, the students will still have art, physical education, music options, Spanish, and World Wonder classes. These classes will be scheduled primarily in the afternoons following the Middle School format. Computer instruction will be incorporated into the academic subjects to assist teachers and students in utilizing technology as a learning tool.

Are there any other benefits?

Our students can anticipate additional physical education and recess times in their schedules.

The new schedule will afford students greater independence and opportunity for maturational growth.