Curriculum

Princeton Middle School’s academic program offers students the opportunity to explore interests, strengths, needs, and skills, while preparing for high school. All students are required to complete core classes of math, English, science, social studies and PE.  Additionally students learn additional skills through STEAM and Literature Connections in grade 6, Art and World Cultures in grade 7, and STEM and Health in grade 8.

In addition to the academic content of each class, we instill in all students the Habits of a Tiger: critical thinking, positive leadership, effective communication, self-awareness, and empathetic citizenship. Expect to be challenged and supported in your thinking, reflection and growth. Our Multi-Tier System of Supports meet every student where they are at and support their continued academic, social and emotional growth.

Grading

Purpose/Definition of Grading:  The purpose of grading is to show what students know and are able to do in relation to state and course standards.  Grading: a) reflects academic achievement, b) contains meaningful feedback, c) aligns with Princeton Public Schools Curriculum, and d) reflects consistency among classes, grade levels, and/or departments.  Princeton Middle School utilizes the Grading for Learning system.  Students will be assessed on the course standards and content.  Student grades will be reported using the following:

A - 93-100%

A- - 90-92.9%

B+ - 87-89.9%

B - 83-86.9%

B- - 80-82.9%

C+ - 77-79.9%

C - 73-76.9%

C- - 70-72.9%

D+ - 67-69.9%

D - 63-66.9%

D- - 60-62.9%

F - 59.9% and Below

Academic Practice (Formative) Assessments are given while a student is learning the material. This is designed to provide direction for both students and teachers.  Practice (formative) assessments include activities such as teacher observations, quizzes, homework, rough drafts, peer editing, and notebook checks, etc. Formative work and assessments are vital in preparing students to do their best on their summative work.  Formative assessments make up 30% of a student’s grade. 

Academic Performance (Summative) Assessments are given after completing a sequence of instruction and practice.  Students are ready to be responsible for the material.  Summative assessments make up 70% of a student’s grade.

Missing Work

At Princeton Middle School we expect all students to complete their work on time. At the end of a unit, students will have up to two weeks and/or teacher discretion for any missing, formative activities/assessments.  After the deadline, formative activities/assessments can no longer be turned in for credit. Teachers may have additional expectations for missing work.   

Students are allowed to retake summative activities/assessments; however, they may not go back more than one unit and/or teacher discretion.  Prior to retaking a summative assessment, students must demonstrate evidence of learning before retaking it.