DC Public Schools
Middle School Requirements
April 18, 2006

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Middle School Requirements

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

In ramping up the graduation requirements for high school, DC Public Schools has devised a plan to increase academic rigor, expanded use of technology, comprehensive guidance and counseling and character education in the middle grades. All students who transition from middle school must complete academic requirements and will be afforded opportunities in the following:

Character Requirement: A record of good citizenship and conduct in middle school is an expectation for all students. The regulations of the Board of Education and Discipline Code for the District of Columbia Public Schools define these qualities of behavior. The code of conduct guidelines for parents and students will be distributed annually.

Credit Requirement: Prior to completing middle school, student entering grade 6 in fall 2008 must complete a minimum of 20 courses of study and meet grade-level standards; 15 of the courses must be reading/English language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The number of additional courses taken will be based on students' individual needs. Students failing a required course will be able to recover by successfully passing a similar summer school course.

Strategies for Success: Our middle school program will provide opportunities for student enrichment through gifted and talented programs, learning contracts, comprehensive school counseling and Summer Bridge programs. Co-curricular enrichment activities, such as Odyssey of the Mind, chess clubs, Beta clubs, National Junior Honor Society and other content-related clubs (mathematics, art, computer and drama) will be sponsored for students' participation.

PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS

Specific Course Requirements: The new middle school model represents a scope that will better prepare them for a more engaging high school experience. Every student is required to complete the following courses in grades 6-8:

Electives: Students will be able to utilize courses offered outside of the minimum curriculum requirements as they desire. There are no minimum elective course requirements.

English: Students will be required to enroll and successfully compete 3 courses in English in middle school. They will also be responsible for engaging in a developmental reading course that will enhance their ability to read for learning.

Fine Arts: All students must complete 3 courses in the arts. The arts can include art, vocal and instrumental music, dance, theatre, etc.

Health/Physical Education: All students must complete 3 courses in physical education.

Mathematics: Students are required to complete a year of mathematics each year while in middle school for a total of 3 courses. The completion of Algebra I is a requirement in order to transition to high school.

Science: 3 courses in science are required for graduation in course selections which include: biology, chemistry, physics, and earth or environmental science.

Social Studies: 3 courses which reflect our new social studies standards which include: World Geography and Cultures, World History and Geography: Ancient World, and US History and Geography I.

Technology: Technology System Applications has been added as a non-negotiable course students must take in order to meet transition from middle school. It is proposed that this course will prepare all students for the increasing demand in the workplace to utilize technological systems.

World Language: All students must complete 2 consecutive years CUs in a foreign language of the same choice. Advanced diploma students must complete 3 units of foreign language.

Office of Academic Services 
Proposed Middle School Course Requirements
Entering 6th Grade Class of 2008

Source: All Students Succeeding: A Master Education Plan for a System of Great Schools, pg. 36,38

Division of Academic Services 
Chief Academic Officer 
revised 4/18/06