WELCOME TO THE GLEN RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

 

 

On behalf of the entire faculty, staff, and student body, we would like to welcome all the seventh and eighth grade students and parents to the Glen Ridge Middle School Program located in the High School.

 

We are excited about the opportunity to include your child’s class as part of our school and we look forward to meeting and working with you during the 2007-2008 school year.

 

This booklet is designed to answer basic questions about the seventh and eighth grade program and includes a sample of the schedule.  Additionally, we have provided an outline of the 7th Grade Transition activities. We want to assure you that we will make every effort to assist you in making a smooth and successful transition to the Glen Ridge Middle School Program.

 

Please feel free to call or e-mail us, or schedule a visit if you have any questions about the seventh and eighth grade program.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

Kenneth Rota                                                                    Mary Lynn De Pierro, Ed. D.

Principal                                                                            Assistant Principal

krota@glenridge.org                                                                mdepierro@glenridge.org

973 429 8300 x 2241                                                        973 429 8300 x 2289 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glen Ridge Public Schools

Mission Statement

 

In partnership with a close knit community, the Glen Ridge Public Schools will maximize the potential of each individual student through a motivational and highly challenging academic program.

 

This will be accomplished in an atmosphere respectful of individual and cultural differences so that students can advance their post-secondary education, contribute socially, and compete productively in an ever changing, increasingly technological global society.

 

Affirmative Action Statement

 

The Glen Ridge Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, mental or physical handicap, socioeconomic status, marital status, age, or gender in any of its policies or regulations related to employment, educational service, programs, or activities.

 

If you have a problem in this regard, make an appointment to see a guidance counselor or a teacher with whom you feel most comfortable. Further consultation can be made to the Principal, Assistant Principal, Affirmative Action Officer, or Title 504 Officer as appropriate. Further appeals may be made to the Superintendent, Board of Education, and the New Jersey Commissioner of Education. The Title 504 and Affirmative Action Officer is Mrs. Barbara Gemza, Director of Student Services (429-8305).

 

Glen Ridge Middle School Program Curriculum Philosophy

 

Early adolescents need intelligent, committed, honest, and sincere adult guides to examine, understand, and accept the new role and changing relationships that accompany this period of life.

 

The Glen Ridge Middle School Program curriculum is designed to help students develop their intellectual, creative, and physical abilities. Each course not only emphasizes mastery of basic skills but also challenges students to think deeply, solve problems, and learn to work effectively with others. Students are scheduled for required courses in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Physical Education, World Languages and Cycle Classes.

 

 

 

In carrying out our program of instruction, staff members seek to have all students experience success at an appropriate level of instruction. We will provide students with a wide variety of learning, guidance, and co-curricular experiences designed to motivate, challenge, and support each child. The students will also be encouraged to develop interpersonal vision and skills, personal and social responsibility, a sense of self-worth, respect for other people and for learning, and pride in their efforts and accomplishments.

 

Glen Ridge Middle School Program

 

The aim of the Glen Ridge Middle School Program is to prepare each student to be a knowledgeable, responsible, and contributing member of the school, local and world communities. Our goal is to have our students function with self-esteem, integrity and compassion. To accomplish this, the staff, Board of Education, and community will create an environment that encourages Glen Ridge Middle School students to:

 

·        Develop respect for self, for others and for our environment;

·        Develop critical and creative thinking, problem solving and communication skills;

·        Develop a heightened awareness of and proficiency in using technology as a tool to extend human capacity;

·        Develop the ability to apply what has been learned and the desire to continue learning; and

·        Develop a sense of inquiry.

 

In order to accomplish this we must continue to invest in our students and build a community of excellence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GUIDANCE SERVICES

 

The middle school guidance office is located in room 200. Ms. Rosa is fully qualified to assist students with educational and personal problems. In addition to Mrs. Petrosino, the district provides the services of Mrs. Kobylinski, Student Assistance Counselor. In working with students, they seek to assist each student to make the most of his or her capabilities and to make realistic and constructive decisions. Some reasons why students seek out the guidance counselor are:

 

·          To establish a suitable academic program;

·          To analyze and improve academic achievement;

·          To establish personal, academic, and vocational goals;

·          To explore ways to achieve goals;

·          To get help with peer relationships;

·          To identify worthwhile activities for personal growth and development;

·          To develop strategies for adjusting to classes and the middle school program;

·          To inquire about careers and vocations;

·          To conceptualize and explore strategies for solving problems;

·          To seek solace in time of crisis/need.

 

In addition to individual counseling, the counselors

 

·          meet with small groups of students to provide information and assistance;

·          help orient new students;

·          promote productive study skills;

·          provide mediation if needed; and

·          work with parents and guardians, teachers, and students to develop cooperative plans for solving student problems.

·          teach the Middle School Guidance Program through classroom lessons

·          coordinate the Middle School Mentors program

·          coordinate Peer Tutoring when necessary and available

 

An appointment can be made with the guidance counselor directly or by leaving a message with the Guidance Office Secretary, Mrs. Parisi.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GLEN RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

The Glen Ridge High School Library Media Center provides students and staff with a flexible-scheduling format that encourages them to visit the Library Media Center to meet a wide variety of needs. Teachers and Library Media Center staff work cooperatively to schedule classes in the Library Media Center and assist them in conducting research, finding information, and completing projects.  Students may also utilize available resources as well as browse and borrow literature for both class assignments and pleasure reading on their own before or after school, during their lunch period or from study halls with a pass. 

Library Media Center Hours:           Mon - Thurs    7:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.             

                                                      Friday       7:45 p.m. – 3:15 pm.

 

 

STUDENT SERVICES

 

Students classified as eligible for special education programs by the Child Study Team may complete course work through the in-class support setting, the resource center, or in a regular education classroom. Both the in-class support and the resource center classrooms are staffed by certified special education teachers, with the in-class support program having a subject area teacher as well. The in-class support program enables students to receive special education support while maintaining enrollment in a regular education class setting. The resource center serves students who require assistance in an academic subject in a more individualized atmosphere. Depending upon the students in a given year, program offerings may vary and may include special sections of other courses as determined by their individualized educational plans (IEPs).

 

Other student services are available to all Middle School students. These include health services, evaluations by the Child Study Team, speech or language therapy, basic skills improvement program, special education instruction, meetings with the student assistance counselor, and home instruction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADE STAFF

 

The seventh and eighth grade programs are conducted by a group of teachers who direct the academic experience for both the seventh and eighth grades.  These teachers may be contacted by voicemail (extensions listed in the calendar) or e-mail (first initial, last name @glenridge.org). Our counseling team is represented by Ms. Vivian Rosa, Guidance; Mr. Edward Bobinski, Psychologist; Mrs. Shehnaz Tapal, LDTC; Mrs. Diane Hoffman, LDTC; Mrs. Donna Doria, Nurse; and Mrs. Heather Kobylinski, Student Assistance Counselor.   All teachers work in conjunction with the Administration and other subject-area teachers.

 

 

 

The seventh and eighth grade program is based on the following beliefs:

 

The curriculum for the Middle School Program ought to be meaningful to students as well as based on professional experience and applicable research.  This approach to curriculum development should be systematic and involve the seventh and eighth grade teachers from inception to implementation.

 

Opportunities should exist for students to expand, explore, and develop interests beyond the purview of the traditional school setting.  In addition, the student should develop self-esteem, a sense of responsibility, an appreciation for and commitment to learning while becoming actively involved.  Students should exhibit respect for each other, their parents, teachers, and learning.

 

The teachers should direct educational issues and be allotted the time to thoroughly analyze, evaluate, and reflect upon them.  Time should be provided to share, communicate, articulate, and “celebrate” success.

 

The educational leaders should be readily available to students and teachers, and in a collaborative manner, should maintain a level of discipline which is fair, clearly defined, and consistent.  In order to insure staff and student advocacy, decisions should be based on educational concerns rather than expediency.

 

Finally, parent partnerships should be developed between the school and the home to provide a support system for children, to communicate school policies, to encourage active participation in school affairs, and to become cooperative partners in the learning experience.

 

 

 

OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK

 

·        The curriculum recognizes the developmental stage of the young adolescents related to educational needs and provides adequate exploratory programs that introduce students to a variety of topics, skills, and content fields.  This is accomplished through a series of courses and short units that give the student some sense of control over the kind of learning he or she undertakes.

 

·        Beyond consideration for its content, curriculum organization is given careful attention.  It is organized to allow students to connect the materials and skills learned in one class to those presented in another.  It recognizes the wide divergence in student development at this level.

 

·        The teachers adapt materials for use in the classroom and do not rely only on the textbook as the organizer for the course of instruction.

 

·        The teachers utilize a variety of instructional approaches: lectures to transmit information, simulations to explain complex systems, discussion to reinforce and clarify concepts, demonstrations and laboratories to make abstract theories more concrete, and meaningful practice to encourage the refinement of newly-developed skills. The teachers provide activities that allow students to explore their aptitudes, interests, and special talents, and to develop an accurate and positive self-concept.

 

 

·        Classroom activities foster cooperative learning activities rather than individual competitive tasks.  Such cooperation enhances the amount of time young adolescents remain engaged in the task and improve the quality of the intellectual activity associated with the task.  Group interaction stimulates creative problem solving and productive thinking.

 

 

·        The district’s support services are integrated into the seventh and eighth grade programs including guidance services, library/information services, special education teachers, and the Child Study Team.  These individuals are accessible and responsive to the needs of our students.

DESCRIPTION OF THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

 

 

SCHEDULE

 

Seventh and eighth grade students have a new and challenging schedule which includes eight class periods and lunch, beginning at 8:00 A.M. and ending at 2:46 P.M.  There is an extra-help period, (block 9) everyday from 2:46 P.M. until 3:15 P.M. 

 

CURRICULUM

 

The existing English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science and World Language Programs are continually refined to provide interdisciplinary units and special projects designed to maximize student potential.

 

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

 

Students are expected to exercise self-discipline and to behave in an appropriate, courteous and responsible manner at all times. Improper or inappropriate behavior will lead to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, detention (after school and Saturday), suspension (in and out of school), removal or exclusion from participation in student activities and expulsion from school.

 

GRADING, MID-TERMS, FINALS AND HONOR ROLL

 

·          Students are graded using an A-F and numerical scale 100-0.

·          Students in the Middle School Program take midterms and finals. These assessments can be in standard test format or an alternative assessment. In the 7th Grade each mid-term and final counts as one test in the 2nd and 4th marking periods. In 8th Grade each mid-term and each final counts as two tests in the 2nd and 4th marking periods respectively.

·          Students in the Middle School Program can achieve either honor roll (B’s and A’s, no C’s) status or high honor roll (All A’s only) status. All classes taken are considered in determining honor roll status.

·          Students receive four report cards and four interim progress reports, all of which are mailed home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

 

The Middle School Program is designed to provide opportunities for students to participate in a variety of activities and programs that promote healthy living and positive interaction with peers and adults. These opportunities are designed to give students the chance to exhibit excellence and to gain confidence and personal satisfaction of accomplishing something.

Sign up meetings for these activities are generally held in September.  For most groups, a student can join at any time during the school year. Students are provided with an opportunity to participate in a variety of seventh and eighth grade activities. Per budget approval, some of the possible activities include:

 

 

·          Middle School Debate

·          Computer Club

·          Literary Magazine          

·          Word-Masters    

·          Middle School Student Council

·          Middle School Chorus                                       

·          Spanish Club                              

·          French Club

·          Middle School Concert Band

·          Middle School Jazz Band

·          Middle School Mentors

·          Math Counts – Math Team

·          Weightlifting

·          Middle School Yearbook

·          Builders Club ( Middle School version of Key Club)

·          Middle School Theatre Club

 

 

 

7TH GRADE PROGRAM OF STUDIES

 

 

7th Grade Life Science

 

Seventh grade Science is an introduction to Biology.  Through many lab experiences and class work, students will become familiar with the traits of living things. They will learn about the structure of cells, viruses, and bacteria.  Students will be able to distinguish between and know the characteristics of the five kingdoms of life. We will also explore how genetic traits are inherited.  In addition, students will learn how the systems of the body work and interact.

 

7th Grade English

 

The seventh grade English experience is designed to include many facets of the language arts.  Students will learn all aspects of reading, using literature of different genres, to enhance skills.  Writing is assigned in conjunction with the literature in our curriculum as well as other assigned topics.  Related activities include speech, projects, and independent reading.  The year helps prepare students to become organized and independent and confident in their studies.

 

7th Grade Math

 

Math 7 students develop fundamental mathematical ideas and methods that provide the foundation for pre-algebra and geometry concepts. Understanding of these concepts is developed by real world situations incorporating authentic data in charts, tables, graphs, models and problem solving. This course emphasizes problem solving strategies and the use of mental math and estimation. Topics include decimals, percents, fractions, ratios and proportions measurement of multi-dimensional figures, geometric properties, data analysis , expressions, equations, number properties, patterns, and integers. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7th Grade Pre-Algebra

 

This one-year course includes all the topics taught in Math 7 and Math 8.  It provides a foundation for exploring and understanding algebra and geometry. A student selected for this course must be self-motivated and have demonstrated high mathematical ability and achievement.  The student must be able to work in a fast pace atmosphere and at an abstract level.  Topics include problem solving techniques, the properties of the real number system, ratios, proportions, percents, probability, measurement of two and three dimensional figures, operations with integers, evaluating algebraic expressions and formulas, geometric properties, data analysis, graphing and multiple step equations.

 

Prerequisite:  Teacher recommendation, final grade of “A” in Math grade 6,  standardized test scores in mathe­mat­ics and verbal reasoning in the 95th percentile or above, and a score of 80% or better on the placement test.

 

7th Grade Social Studies

 

This course focuses on 20th Century United States History. We begin with an examination of the rise of industry in the late 19th century and continue chronologically through the changing role of the United States in the world today. Students will have the opportunity to study the impact of various historical, social, political and economic forces on the history of the United States and the world. Course work relies on primary sources, readings, online research and the text.

 

7th Grade Cycle – Computers

 

This course provides students with the opportunities to use word-processing and spreadsheet software in managing and displaying information derived from real world situations.  Students gain word processing and spreadsheet skills while operating the tools in an integrated Microsoft Windows environment. Students are introduced to

Microsoft Access, They will learn to create a database and merge information with Word.

 

7th Grade Cycle – Public Speaking

 

The seventh grade public speaking cycle provides students with a variety of speaking opportunities which help develop communication skills through speaking and listening.  Students gain speaking skills in original oratory, group presentations, extemporaneous and impromptu speaking, and oral interpretation of literature.

 

 

7th Grade Cycle  - Research:

This course orients students to the print and online resources available in the GRHS Library Media Center and prepares them to use those sources effectively for academic pursuits and personal interests. Students are also introduced to the process of preparing a brief research paper.  They practice taking notes, following MLA formatting guidelines, preparing a Works Cited page and using parenthetical references to cite sources.

7th Grade Cycle – Civics

 

By learning about their government, students prepare to become effective and knowledgeable participants in our democratic society. Utilizing the text and other various resources, students learn the importance of carrying out the duties and responsibilities of citizenship. They discover the information that will enable them to fulfill their roles as citizens of the United States and develop a positive attitude toward their responsibilities as members of the school, community, state and nation. Emphasis will be placed on the powers of government, rights of citizens, the electoral process and state and federal laws.

 

7th Grade Cycle - Visual Arts

 

Art is a necessary component of our lives.  Throughout the seventh grade, Art Cycle students will be involved in activities that contribute to the development of a well-rounded person, including cognition, critical analysis, and psycho-motor skills.  Students acquire knowledge of skills that increase aesthetic awareness in the visual arts, and they will recognize the impact of the visual arts in daily life.  They will improve their critical thinking skills through art critiques and will concentrate on problem-solving strategies, resourcefulness, and reasoning.  Seventh graders are encouraged to develop and strengthen imagination and creativity, developing an understanding of the relationship between concepts and solutions.  The seventh grade Art Cycle Class provides avenues of expression through artistic creation that encourages personal growth and enhance self-esteem.

 

7th Grade Cycle - General Music

 

This course is offered as a continuation of our classroom music program.  The students participate in a variety of experiences including singing, playing classroom instruments, composing their own music, and learning to critique the music and performance of others.  The students express themselves through the performance of a wide variety of music.  Through the written symbols of music they share in the ideas of those that came before them and also allow themselves the opportunity of sharing the music of their time and culture with those that will come in the future. 

 

 

 

 

7th Grade Cycle – Money Matters

 

This course is designed to increase the financial literacy and understanding of the seventh graders. The topics to be covered include taxes (different types), banking and bank accounts (checking and savings), credit (establishing credit, credit cards) and interest factors, mortgages and the role of banks at each stage of life. The students will be required to complete reading assignments and discuss relevant subjects from current news sources.

 

7th Grade Cycle – Study Skills

 

This course will focus on introducing and reinforcing basic study skills with the seventh grade students. Topics covered will include time management, organizational skills, note taking, reading for information and understanding and test preparation strategies. This course will reinforce the concepts introduced at the beginning of the school year.

 

 

7th Grades Cycle - Synergistics

 

With an ever-increasing demand for and usage of technology today, the Synergistics Lab offers students a hands-on experience, utilizing technology tools to explore topics in physical and life science.  Appropriate yet high-tech gear, computers, videotapes and hands-on lab experiences guide students learning.  Problem-solving strategies perpetuate all eleven modules as well as all other classroom activities.  The program design develops personal skills and cooperative learning techniques.

 

Students rotate through 3 of 11 available modules during 7th grade.  Each module lasts for 7 plus days.  The eleven module titles and descriptions include: Applied Physics, Awesome Animals, Biotechnology, Body Defenses, Engineering Bridges, Engineering Towers, Light Technology, Great Green, Robots, Rocketry and Space, and Video Broadcasting.

 

8TH GRADE PROGRAM OF STUDIES

 

8th Grade Earth Science

 

Earth Science includes an examination of interacting components that affect or shape our planet.  Students make observations, compare the earth to other planets, as well as describe technologies used to explore the universe.  Students will explain that the sun is the earth’s major energy source, and that solar energy is emitted in various forms.  Students will explain how natural events are related to the positioning of the sun, earth, and moon.

 

8th Grade English