Common Core

Meany Middle School teachers align their instruction with the Common Core State Standards, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in high school, college, and future careers.

Core academic subjects include:

• Math – placement determined by test scores and teacher input

• Science

• English Language Arts (ELA)

• Social Studies/History

Instruction is differentiated to meet the needs of all learners, with interventions for students requiring additional support. All staff are fully certified for their grade level and subject area.

Families are invited to fall parent-teacher conferences to meet each of their student’s teachers. Throughout the year, teachers are available for extra support, and student progress (grades, attendance, and communication) is managed through the district’s online platforms The Source and Schoology.

Honors for All

At Meany, we believe in “Honors for All.” All students, regardless of Advanced Learning (AL) or Highly Capable (HC) designations, may request advanced coursework in their classes.

• Students eligible for HC services may follow the HC Pathway Course Sequence at one of the designated pathway middle schools.

• Accommodations are available for students significantly ahead in math, reviewed at the start of the school year.

Advisory

Every day except Wednesday begins with a 20-minute Advisory class, designed to support social and emotional learning. Advisory focuses on:

• Building community and culture

• Academic check-ins

• Meany ROAR values: Respect, Ownership, Attitude, Responsibility, and Readiness

Electives

As a small school, Meany offers a curated set of electives across four categories. Class placement reflects scheduling needs and a balanced classroom environment.

Physical Education (PE)

• Fitness, health, and a wide variety of physical activities

• Most students take PE year-round

• PE is the only elective that can be repeated within the same semester

World Languages

• French and Spanish are offered beginning in 7th grade

• Preference is given to 7th- and 8th-grade students

Music

• Beginning and Advanced Band and Orchestra

• Jazz Band (audition-based)

• After-school Drum Line program (see After-School Programs page)

• Instruments available at no cost

• Performances held three times a year, often with feeder elementary schools

Visual Arts

• State-of-the-art art lab with natural light and a full kiln

• Projects include drawing, painting, ceramics, collage, and exploration of artistic styles

Other Opportunities

• 7th- and 8th-grade students may apply to serve as a Teacher Assistant (TA) as an elective option.

Student Supports

• English Language Learners (ELL): Bilingual support for multilingual students.

• Special Education Services: Including Access, Focus, Social/Emotional, and Distinct programs.

• The PTSA hosts meetings for families of special education students to connect, share resources, and learn about available supports.

Clubs & Activities

Clubs change from year to year, but recent options have included:

• Art Club

• ASB / Student Council

• Big World Breaks (BWB) Drumline

• Dungeons & Dragons / Magic the Gathering

• Lego Club

• LGBTQIA+ Club

• Makers Club

• Sewing Club

• Stage Club (Talent Show & Spring Musical)

• Yearbook Club

• Friends of Meany Ski Bus*

*Note: The Ski Bus is community-led and not a school or PTSA-sponsored activity.

Athletics

Meany athletics follow the middle school sports calendar, with offerings by season:

Fall (Sept–Dec)

• Girls Soccer

• Co-ed Ultimate Frisbee

Winter (Dec–Mar)

• Boys Basketball

• Girls Basketball

Spring (Mar–May)

• Co-ed Track

• Boys Soccer

• Girls Volleyball

Community Partnerships

Meany shares campus space with Miller Community Center, giving students even more opportunities close to school. Past programs have included:

• Babysitting certification courses

• Tennis lessons

• Cooking classes

These activities are scheduled with the Meany calendar and early-release Wednesdays in mind.