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…defining WHAT our students must learn to be successful in middle school

Responsible Children -- who take care of themselves – both body and mind and take care of others, including family members, friends and others in need.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Treat others as they would like to be treated; respect the opinions and rights of others

• Respect themselves by dressing and presenting themselves appropriately, avoiding drugs, alcohol and other dangerous behaviors

• Make good choices

• Develop a good character by practicing such things as respect, honesty, responsibility and caring for others

Lifelong Learners -- who understand, love and seek to learn.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Set goals and work to achieve them

• Try new things

• Know when to ask for help by realizing there is a problem and looking for a solution

• Ask questions

• Identify and follow their interests

• Are willing to change and able to accept change

• Enjoy learning

Thinkers -- who examine issues and find ways to solve problems

Essential skills—Students who…

• Use good judgment by thinking before acting and speaking

• Communicate information in an accurate and understandable manner

• Defend and explain their decisions

• Demonstrate creative thinking

Involved Students -- who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values necessary to contribute positively to their community.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Accept and respect others

• Are the best they can be in all settings

• Accept responsibility for their own actions

• Volunteer for activities and events

Clear Communicators -- who understand and express knowledge, thoughts and feelings about themselves and others.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Read, write, speak and listen when interacting in school, at home and in the community

• Use a variety of ways to express their ideas

• Demonstrate effective presentation skills

Cooperative learners --who work with others to accomplish goals and tasks; who work and play together respectfully.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Make appropriate choices in a variety of situations

• Respect others, ourselves and the world

• Find good ways to avoid or solve problems

• Celebrate and respect the differences among fellow students

• Respect differences among people in the larger community

• Take an active role in group activities

Culturally Appreciative Persons --who value and respect creative expression of interests, talents and experiences.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Are open-minded and willing to try (take a risk)

• Develop awareness of many cultures/peoples

• Enjoy art, plays, and music inside and outside the classroom

• Learn about, understand and appreciate different forms of art

Mathematically, Scientifically and Technologically Competent People -- who will learn to use their knowledge of math, science and technology to help solve problems both inside and outside the classroom.

Essential skills—Students who…

• Use knowledge, skills, tools and materials to express themselves and solve problems

• Use problem solving strategies