Middle School Curriculum

At West Ottawa our goals for all students include providing solid academic instruction in the core curricula (English, math, science, and social studies) which will challenge learners while maintaining the supportive, nurturing environment to which students and parents have been accustomed at the elementary level. Additionally, students are provided opportunities to explore a variety of subjects which may reveal untapped talents or promote career awareness.

Sixth grade teachers are trained and certified to work with elementary students and focus on both the intellectual growth and emotional wellbeing of students. The sixth grade schedule, curriculum and teaching methods are designed to help students achieve success as they make the transition from elementary school.

As academic expectations increase for seventh and eighth grade students, the core curricula focuses on providing the skills and knowledge necessary for students to become successful in the secondary grades.

At Harbor Lights

Each grade level is divided into 3 interdisciplinary teams. Each team, in essence, becomes a school within a school. A daily 20-minute homeroom focuses on communication, positive student teacher relationships and citizenship. Harbor Lights schedules a six period day. Each class period is approximately 55 minutes.

Sixth Grade:

  • Required Classes: Entire Year-English, math, science, social studies, music; Twelve Weeks-physical education, computers, and global art or Spanish.

Seventh Grade:

  • Required Classes: Entire Year-English, math, science, world studies; Twelve Weeks-health and nutrition.
  • Electives: Spanish, music, art, computers, video production, modular technology, manufacturing technology, and/or physical education.

Eighth Grade:

  • Required Classes: Entire Year-English, math, science, world studies; Twelve Weeks-physical education.
  • Electives: Spanish, music, art, computers, video production, modular technology, manufacturing technology, and/or physical education.

At Macatawa Bay

Students attend six academic classes and a homeroom each day. Their schedule includes the four core classes of English, mathematics, science, and social studies as well as two exploratory classes. Core classes are taken for the entire school year and exploratory classes are offered for twelve weeks.

photo