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Constructed in 1957 as Byron Junior High School, the Middle School is the newest of Shaker’s eight school buildings. In addition to classrooms, the school contains a regulation-size indoor swimming pool, two large gymnasiums, a student lounge, a 1,000-seat auditorium that can accommodate musical and dramatic performances, science and computer labs, a cafeteria, a clinic, and a spacious library media center. Several athletic fields, a running track, tennis courts, and a landscaped courtyard round out the campus. In 1985, as part of a districtwide reorganization, Byron became Shaker Middle School and assumed its current grade structure.

The academic program provides new challenges and solid support, with both advanced and basic skills classes available in selected subjects. Course placements are made in consultation with students, parents, the Middle School counselor, and the sixth-grade teacher. Students some from Woodbury Elementary School. Individual students and teams from Shaker Middle School consistently turn in prize-winning efforts in science, mathematics, foreign language, and writing competitions at the regional, state and national levels.

English
The study of literature in grades 7 and 8 encompasses analysis and discussion of literature of various genres. A great deal of emphasis is placed on the writing process – pre-writing, drafting, revision according to standard usage and mechanics, and final copy. Students are placed in advanced, college preparatory, or skills classes, depending on their ability and prior performance in language arts.

Mathematics
The Middle School’s mathematics curriculum covers the full range of mathematical topics, with a particular emphasis on the use of a variety of strategies in formulating and solving problems. Students are placed in advanced, accelerated, college preparatory, or standard classes, depending on their ability and prior performance in mathematics. Advanced and accelerated students may complete Algebra I in eighth grade.

Science
To promote the scientific literacy necessary to function in the 21st century, the Middle School provides an overview of the life and earth sciences. The laboratory is an integral part of all science instruction as a place to practice the experimental method and obtain hands-on experience. Students are placed in advanced, college preparatory, or skills classes, depending on their ability and prior performance.

Social Studies
Social studies at the Middle School challenge students to assess and interpret, and they provide a framework for development of personal and citizenship responsibilities. The seventh-grade course covers Ohio government and world-regional geography. The eighth-grade course consists of a chronological survey of United States history.

Languages
Students at the Middle School take either a foreign language or reading as part of their language arts requirement. Students whose skills in English are sound may take two years of French, Spanish, or – unusual for a middle school – Latin. For students who need reinforcement of skills and practice in reading, writing and speaking in English, the reading curriculum is offered in both grades 7 and 8.

Library Media
The Middle School’s Library Media Center is open for classes and individual students to visit as needed during the school day. Students are encouraged to read for enjoyment as well as to use the library media center’s broad array of information resources. All students are given formal instruction in the use of print and electronic reference resources.

Cycle Courses
Taught in nine-week segments, cycle courses take advantage of the active learning style of most young adolescents through hands-on experiences. Over the course of two years, each student completes segments in art (7th and 8th grade), computer science (7th and 8th grade), manufacturing technology (7th grade), food preparation and nutrition (8th grade), and cognitive tutor (8th grade), which is a computer system designed to drill students on the fundamentals of math, english, and other main subjects.

Physical Education and Health
The physical education program, taking advantage of the Middle School’s indoor pool and other superb facilities, gives students opportunities to improve their agility, flexibility, strength, endurance, and skills through participation in various activities. The health curriculum stresses prevention and reduction of health risks. Students are encouraged to make responsible and informed decisions about diet, exercise, safety, sexual activity, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use.

Music
In keeping with the Shaker schools’ tradition of a superb music program, the Middle School offers students a variety of ways to develop their musical talents and interests. Performing ensembles include: chorus, string orchestra, symphonic band, concert band, cadet band, and jazz ensemble. Students in all instrumental programs except jazz ensemble – which is an after-school club – receive daily instruction during school. General music classes provide an overview of the elements of music and a survey of musical styles, with the objective of helping students become discerning listeners. The Middle School and High School band in Shaker Heights is well known for its solid music programs and excellent bands.

Special Education
To the degree possible, students with special needs are served in regular classes, with appropriate support from tutors and other specialists in learning disabilities, positive behavior, and developmental handicaps. For those who require a self-contained environment in mathematics and English, intervention classes provide individualized and small-group instruction.

Shaker Heights School District website