Middle School Overall
At G.D.S. our Middle School features a rigorous academic program with subjects that include: English, Literature, history, science, mathematics, Judaic, Hebrew, physical education, art, music, computers and several challenging and exciting elective choices.
Curriculum Highlights
- A multi-year sequence in expository writing and research skills
- Unique family education programming involving creative, hands-on activities, a Renaissance Fair, An Alternative Invention Convention/Science Olympics, and a Talent Show
- Emphasis on learning and utilizing computer technology via a student laptop program
- Curriculum-based class trips, including science trips to Orlando, history/political science trips to Washington, Atlanta, and New York, Pathfinder leadership and team building experience, and in the future, a trip to Israel
- A wide variety of elective courses to select from including: theatrical music and drama, Improvisational theater, Yoga, film critique, scrap booking, Art, computer animation and programming, photography, and swimming
- Exposure to the classical arts, including trips to the opera, philharmonic, and museums
- A Holocaust Unit that integrates the global perspective of World War II with personal perspectives. Holocaust programming with other community non-Jewish parochial schools
- A strong emphasis on traditional Jewish values
- Community service/ outreach programming
- Promotion of social development, self-esteem, and school spirit via the utilization of the Lift Program to learn communication, problem solving and anti-bullying strategies
- Leadership opportunities through Student Council and DEFY IT programs
- A nationally acclaimed character development program which emphasizes social skills and conflict resolution
- A transitional program that eases fifth graders into the middle school environment
- A communication network between parents, teachers, and students reinforced by individual teacher Web pages
- Faculty advisors and a child development specialist who serve as the liaison between students, their parents and teachers
- A faculty that builds on the individual strengths of each child
- A strong mathematics program that not only develops mathematics skills, but also works in concert with our science curriculum
|
