3. Middle School Instruction

Middle School Instruction

WHAT’S NEW IN MIDDLE SCHOOL?

Cohorts in Middle School will consist of 11 to 15 students. Faculty will rotate from classroom to classroom and utilize the audio-visual podium as a teaching station. Although teachers will rotate between classrooms, the cohorts are designed to minimize the comingling of students and provide greater ease in potential contact tracing. These cohorts will remain together for P.E. and electives, too.

Schedules - Given that the school year will start off in a distance learning model, we will use Zoom for direct instruction and check-ins with students. We will retain advisory, electives like art and music, and student activities. Lastly, we will set aside time for independent work and meetings with teachers. When we return to in-person instruction our schedule will pivot to provide more time in the classroom. In both models, the school day will begin at 8:30 a.m. and finish at 3:30 p.m.

Use of Space - To maximize space and safety, spaces in the Middle School are being reconfigured and reimagined and will include using the Ahmanson, music room, and Middle School library as classroom space. Science labs will continue to be held in the science classrooms.

Physical Education & Sports - students will remain in cohorts during physical education and the utilization of outdoor space will be prioritized, weather permitting. In addition, a health curriculum will be provided to all students. There will be units on each of the following topics: nutrition, social & emotional wellness and mindfulness. While team sports have been cancelled for this year, we will find ways to promote physical activity through our programming.

Well-Being and Balance - As we focus on the whole child approach, we will balance mandatory core academic classes with a year-round curriculum in art and music, as well as study skills and social & emotional wellness for all students. While public health protocols have suspended choral or singing programs, performing arts are being reimagined to include filmmaking and dramatic works.

Technology - With our 1:1 laptop program in place, teachers will provide lessons through the website, Zoom and Google Classroom throughout the year. The continued use of this technology will focus on clarity of assignments and consistency.

LOCKERS AND PERSONAL PROPERTY

This year lockers will be unavailable for use by any student. All students will be required to keep their personal belongings with them throughout the day including their lunch.

HIGH SCHOOL ADMISSION PROCESS

We will still offer high school admissions counseling to our eighth-grade students and their families as we prepare for a process that may likely be held virtually this year. We are in communications with Pasadena-area high schools to get updates about the application process this year and we will provide resources to our families. Chandler School

Educational Models Definitions [In-Person Learning] will take place when the city and state officials permit schools to re-open on campus. There are many benefits of an in-person program, despite the health risks of the pandemic. With the support of our community and strict health and safety guidelines, we have put together a plan with detail about how to operate, putting strict guidelines into practical plans.

[Distance Learning] will take place throughout the school year when public health officials deem it unsafe to gather on campus.

[Blended Learning] will take place when some students participate in the distance learning model while other students participate in the in-person program. This will occur when students or cohorts are absent due to illness, symptoms, exposure, quarantine and/ or isolation. This may also occur when students or their family members have underlying health conditions and choose distance learning to minimize risk of exposure.