In the last article I outlined some of the great things that are happening at the elementary school. Since the feedback that I received was so impressive on that artice, I decided to follow up with an article about the middle school this month and then in April I will have an article about some of the awesome things about our high school.
Triton has the ability to have all of our grade levels under one roof, yet maintain the integrity and separation of the elementary, middle and high schools. This has been a great benefit for our middle school students. Middle school students are unique because they are going through so many life changes during 6th to 8th grade. It is the only time in your life that you go through as many social, emotional, physical and intellectual changes other than the time as an infant. Having this space for our middle school students we are able to support the growth and development of each child that attends Triton Middle School.
The middle school is a time for students to explore their learning interests. At Triton Middle School we have a number of these types of learning opportunities outside of the classroom. The clubs and organizations at Triton Middle School include Technovation, Academic Triathlon, Math Masters, Chess Club and Student Council. It is also a great time to explore a variety of different physical activities. Along with our robust physical education curriculum our middle school students have the opportunity to learn to ski at Welch Village in 7th grade, as well as participate in a great variety of extra-curricular sports.
One of the areas that our middle school does an exceptional job is in the area of team building and building productive social skills. This starts in the 6th Grade where students are introduced to the middle school concept and the differences that come with moving out of the elementary school. Changing classes and having a schedule are all things that are covered in our WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) Transitional Program for incoming 6th grade students. This program partners 6th grade students into groups that are lead by 8th grade mentors. These mentors are people that students meet with throughout the year for guidance and support. The middle school also supports students with social emotional learning with weekly lessons as well as a common homeroom time that focuses on community building and social connections between grade levels. These homerooms are then grouped into one of four social houses that also promote teamwork and belonging. The house groups work together on a variety of activities and challenges throughout the school year that help promote the goals of the profile of a graduate.
The academic focus at the middle school is very strong. The middle school has extended learning time in the areas of math and language arts. This focus on math and reading continues to be evident when looking at student growth in statewide assessments when compared to other schools. The middle school is also dedicated to helping students with homework. There is a homework link on the website that shares what students are working on in the classroom each day, which includes any homework assignments. There are also weekly emails that are sent to parents each Tuesday that list any missing assignments that students might have missed, and on Wednesday after school there is a homework club for students with a teacher to support students with any help they may need.
Triton Middle School has a great middle school that is modeled after what an exemplary middle school can be for the unique middle school students. We are fortunate to have such a great system in place for our middle school students. Please reach out to me with any questions that you may have regarding our school district. You can email me at schlich@triton.k12.mn.us or you can call me at 507-418-7530 to reach me at the district office. I would be happy to set up a time to meet with you or your organization. Communication is an important aspect of my job responsibility, and I welcome the opportunity to gain experience from your perspective. GO COBRAS!
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