Top 8 Things You Might Not Know About The Willows Middle School Program

Have you ever tried to get information from your middle school child about school but received a limited response or even a blank stare? You’re not alone. Many parents with middle school students face this common issue. To help bridge the communication gap, here are the top 8 things you might not know about The Willows Middle School program.

1. Laptops

Technology is an integral part of The Willows experience. To prepare children for the future and ensure their success, The Willows supplies all middle school students with laptops to use both at home and at school.

2. Overnight Trip

Each grade participates in overnight trips to enhance classroom learning. 6^th grade goes to Camp Gilmore, 7^th Grade goes to Atlanta, and 8^th Grade goes to Washington D.C. Additionally, The Willows offers an opportunity for any middle schooler to attend an International Service Learning trip during spring break. In the past the students have gone to Nicaragua, Peru, and Puerto Rico.

3. Leadership Roles

The Willows intentionally created a DK-8 campus to foster leadership among our middle school students. This setting allows our older students to interact and engage with our younger ones regularly. Throughout the school year, middle schoolers are paired up with younger students through our buddy program. Additionally, there are opportunities for middle school students to co-teach an elective to their peers, providing them with valuable leadership experiences.

4. Challenging Academics

All students have Math or Advanced Math 5-days per week, assigned on their understanding and readiness for a particular course as determined by teacher recommendations, previous class performance, and test scores. Students also have Middle School Core, which combines Language Arts and Social Studies, designed to prepare students for the rigor of high school writing and history.

5. Electives

Electives provides autonomy for our middle school students. On Friday afternoons, students attend classes of their choice, ranging from arts to educational technology. There’s a plethora of electives for students to choose from, allowing them to explore their passions. These electives change every trimester. Learn more about past electives classes offered to the students here.

6. Debate, Latin, & Robotics Teams

Both in and outside of school, students can partake in our middle school club teams. Currently, Debate, Latin, and Robotics are offered to any interested students. These clubs meet during electives as well as participate in outside competitions.

7. No Cut Athletics

Anyone that wants to play a sport can participate. While the amount of playing time for each team member is not equal, The Willows subscribes to the “everyone plays” philosophy, ensuring that each team member gets to play in every game.

8. Graduation Musical Production

This is a cherished Willows tradition. Every graduation class puts on a musical performance for the community. Each student participates, whether on stage or behind the curtains.

Learn more HERE about The Willows Middle School Program.