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Middle SchoolMiddle School (Grades 6-8)While specialized schools often group students with a wide range of ages together into a single classroom, we feel it is important for students to spend their day with peers their own age. In the middle school grades, this is particularly important for building self-esteem, learning social skills, and acquiring the student skills expected of students their age. At the same time, our students must be placed in classes that are working on their current academic skill level, so they can receive the precise instruction they need. How does de Paul balance these important components? We begin by grouping our students by grade-level age, forming teams of students led by a select group of teachers. For example, our "Team 7" is composed of students who are seventh-graders in age, and these students are led by four teachers who are exclusively devoted to these students. As students and teachers learn and socialize together within their team, they form the bonds that are at the foundation of our middle school's calm, respectful culture. We then group the students within each team into classes for each subject area, based on the particular needs of those students. The student groupings vary from one subject to another, and the class size is based on the level of academic need. This way, a child who is behind in reading skills and above average in math is appropriately placed in both areas. Likewise, the teacher's instructional time is not diluted in trying to address many different skill levels. At de Paul, your child shares his/her class with students who need the same lessons and strategies. Small class sizes. Need-based class groupings. Peer-based social groups. A culture of respect, dignity, and high expectations. These are just part of "The de Paul Difference!" The middle school courses of study feature: |