Common Core

Meany Middle School teachers align instruction to the Common Core State Standards. These standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers.

Core academic instruction includes Math, Science, English Language Arts, and Social Studies/History. Learning is differentiated to student’s abilities within the classroom with interventions for students with more intense needs. Math level is set for each student based on test scores and teacher input.

All staff are certified for their grade and content. Parent teacher conferences are held in the fall, providing opportunities for parents and caregivers to meet with each of their student’s teachers. Teachers are available throughout the year to provide additional support. Communications, including grades and attendance are managed through the district wide online portal, The Source, and through Schoology.

Honors for All

At Meany Middle School, we believe in “Honors for all.” All students, regardless of Advanced Learning (AL) or Highly Capable (HC) designations may request advanced coursework in your classes. Students eligible for HC services can take the HC Pathway Course Sequence Recommendations at one of the HC pathway middle schools. In the past, accommodations have been made for students working significantly ahead in math. This is addressed at the start of the school year and will be revisited with the Return to School planning when in person learning resumes.

Advisory

Each day (except Wednesday) includes a 20-minute “Advisory” class. Students meet for 20 minutes to develop important social/emotional building blocks. Learning focuses on a mix of content including the Meany ROAR (Respect, Ownership, Attitude, Responsibility and Readiness), academics and culture.

Electives

Meany offers four categories of electives. As a small school, our electives are limited. As enrollment increases, so will offerings. Electives are assigned to reflect a balanced classroom and to account for scheduling. Elementary schools are consulted regarding music (band and orchestra). Classes are not guaranteed.

Electives currently include:

• Physical Education. Students learn fitness, health, and participate in a range of sports and physical activities.

  Most students take PE all year. PE is the only elective that can be offered twice in the same semester, an option that some students have taken in the past.

• Language. Students may begin taking French or Spanish in 7th grade. Preference is granted to 7th and 8th graders and not all students can take a language.

• Music. Meany offers beginning and advanced Band and Orchestra, as well as a Jazz Band. Instruments are available free of charge by the school and concerts are held three times a year, sometimes featuring students from our feeder elementary schools. Additionally, Meany has an after school Drum Line program. (See after school programs for more information.)

• Art. Meany’s state-of-the-art Art lab features ample space, natural light and a full sized kiln. Instruction focuses on the basic elements of art and experiential learning including drawing, painting, clay and collage. Students also explore artists and their styles.

Seventh and 8th grade students also have the option to apply to be a TA (teacher assistant) as one of their electives.

Meany has a bilingual program (ELL) and special education services so that all students receive the supports they need to succeed. The PTSA sponsors meetings for parents and caregivers of special education students to network and learn about the programs.

After-school clubs and activities

These vary from year to year, but typically, Meany students can choose from a variety of clubs and activities:

• Art Club

• ASB/Student Council

• BWB (Big World Breaks) Drumline

• Dungeons & Dragons/Magic the Gathering

• Lego Club

• LGBTQIA+ Club

• Makers Club

• Sewing Club

• Stage Club (Talent Show and Spring Musical)

• Yearbook Club

• Friends of Meany Ski Bus (Note: not a school or PTSA sponsored activity)

Meany sports

Meany athletics offerings change for each season:

Fall sports (September – December)

• Girls soccer

• Co-ed ultimate frisbee

Winter sports (December - March)

• Boys basketball

• Girls basketball

Spring sports (March - May)

• Co-ed track

• Boys soccer

• Girls volleyball

More Programs at Miller Community Center

Meany Middle School shares land with Miller Community Center, and that adds more programs for our students. Programs have included free babysitting courses, tennis lessons and cooking classes.  Scheduling is aligned with the Meany School Calendar and early-release Wednesdays in mind.