Academic
Academic
RMS adheres to the Dresden District Philosophy: A rich diversity of students challenges the Hanover/Norwich community to provide a stimulating and sound educational experience that will inspire a lifetime of learning. At the Dresden School system we respect this diversity, the uniqueness of individuals, and the contributions all can make to the greater human community. We believe that an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect is essential to the educational process. We actively seek to inspire, appreciate, and reward excellence and creativity among students and staff. We acknowledge our reliance on the resources, support, and inspiration of the local community as we pursue our educational dreams. Moreover, we respond to the community in its commitment to provide students with the opportunity to develop intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially.
All families have the opportunity to examine curriculum and class materials as well as ask for alternative materials, the steps are outlined here. (IHAM-E)
The Richmond School is divided into grade-level teams for academic courses: 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade, plus the Elective Team. Teachers of each team meet four times a week to discuss team curriculum and students. Parents are welcome to request a meeting with their child’s teachers at these times.
The school year is divided into nine-week quarters. English, math, science, social studies, physical education, French and Spanish are taught as full-year courses. Electives are offered by the quarter.
Grade 6 Overview
6th grade is the first year in a new school. Each student has their own individual schedule. As students begin to make the transition from concrete to abstract thinking, the 6th grade team works hard to make the year comfortable, stimulating and academically challenging.
Teachers keep parents informed about classes and school events through regular updates to Schoology and the principal’s weekly Friday Focus, which is emailed to families. Staff members encourage parents to help their children succeed by establishing a regular time and place for daily quiet study in the home.
All 6th graders take yearlong courses in English, math, social studies, science, physical education, art, and music. Students also take Spanish or French unless exempted. They are required to take computer literacy once a week, and one quarter of developmental guidance, both of which foster the skills and strategies students need to be effective in middle school. Each quarter, students also take part in a set rotation of our elective program.
Grade 7 Overview
7th grade is a year of transitions. Students from Norwich and Hanover are together in classrooms for the first time. They are expected to show more independence with work, and they are challenged to think abstractly.
All 7th graders study English, social studies, math, physical education, French or Spanish, science, one quarter each of guidance and health. All academic classes meet daily, with students also taking a “+” period each day where they undertake work that deepens and enriches their “standard” academic work. In addition, each quarter, students may elect courses in the fine and practical arts.
Grade 8 Overview
8th grade students have developed many of the basic academic skills and the confidence they need to pursue more independent work. The 8th grade staff members encourage confidence in each learner by creating opportunities for students to direct their own studies.
All 8th graders take English, math, social studies, physical education, French or Spanish, science, and one quarter each of guidance and health. All academic classes meet daily, with students also taking a “+” period each day where they undertake work that deepens and enriches their “standard” academic work. In addition, each quarter, students may elect courses in the fine and practical arts.