ACADEMICS
At Smitha Middle School , our vision is to be a premier middle school that fosters and empowers life-long , global leaders who are engaged as stakeholders in their diverse communities . As an institution , we strive to reach , teach , and empower all students . In this quest , experiences are fostered where learning and growing are key objectives . For students to thrive , they must ask for help when need and keep parents / guardians informed about my progress . As parents / guardians , our hope is that you will encourage your child to do his / her best every day , to ask for assistance when needed , and the check the CTLS Parent and ParentVue consistently .
CURRICULUM Students in middle school will take the following academic courses : English / language arts , reading , science , math and social studies . At the 8 th grade level , Spanish , high school science and high school math are available for qualifying students . Advanced content classes are available at all three grade levels for qualifying students . Students will also participate in Connections classes . These may include art , business and technology , general music , math support , band , orchestra , chorus and physical education ( PE ). Band , orchestra , and chorus students will participate in music program for the entire school year .
Student Schedules Great efforts are made to ensure students ’ course schedules are appropriate for their academic needs . Student schedules are created based on several factors such as success in previous grade level , success in previous courses , performance on test scores and or teacher recommendations , as well as other educational data . As a result , parent and student request for schedule changes cannot be honored for teacher preferences , social groups , connections , dissatisfaction , etc .
Connection classes are scheduled using random selection . Unfortunately , Smitha Middle School does not take requests concerning connection classes . Students enrolled in band , chorus , and orchestra make a yearlong commitment . Please contact your grade level administration if there are questions or concerns relative to your child ’ s schedule .
Conferences Parents are welcome to meet with teachers , counselors , and administrators to discuss their child ’ s progress throughout the year . When conferences are arranged with teachers , they take place during teachers ’ planning period , and / or before or after school .
Additionally , countywide conference week is held in October . All Cobb County middle schools will be on an early release schedule during conference week with student dismissal beginning at 1:30 p . m . for middle schools .
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