Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. (Dismissal on Wednesday is 2:00 p.m.)
The Afterschool Program ends at 6:00 p.m.
- What are the hours of the Middle School?
- What is the class size?
- What is the Windrush teaching philosophy?
- What is special about your curriculum?
- What kind of student does Windrush seek?
- How does Windrush ensure it graduates are prepared for the academic rigors of high school?
- Which standardized test does Windrush administer?
- What are the homework expectations?
- How is student performance evaluated?
- How do Middle School students interact with the Elementary School students?
- What is the Middle School sports program?
- In what way can parents be involved in the school community?
- What kinds of support services are available in Middle School?
- What types of field trips are offered?
- Is Windrush an accredited school?
What are the hours of the Middle School?
What is the Windrush teaching philosophy?
We believe in challenging students with an intellectually stimulating and developmentally appropriate curriculum. Small class sizes enable students to be actively engaged in learning and with their teachers at all times. Learning is experiential and dynamic, and course work is presented with imagination and energy. Building on the curriculum, themes and expectations of the California State Frameworks and Standards, Windrush teachers strive for depth over breadth in their selection of materials. Students thrive in an atmosphere where cooperation and respect maximize opportunities for learning. Knowing students have different learning styles, teachers use a variety of teaching methods, taking advantage of interdisciplinary themes to unify their students' learning experience.
What is special about your curriculum?
The Middle School curriculum is designed to be relevant and meaningful to adolescents. Students are encouraged to ask questions and pursue answers by reading, talking, researching and experimenting. Group process and trial and error help students develop problem solving and critical thinking skills. The core curriculum includes language arts, math, science, social studies, Spanish and physical education. All students take art and drama classes every week-6th and 7th graders also take music. In addition students choose from a variety of electives such as media literacy, martial arts, digital photography, dance, music and yearbook. Every student participates in an advisory program and community service. A sports program is offered after school.
What kind of student does Windrush seek?
Windrush looks for students who are curious and eager to learn. We seek students who can work together and respect one another's similarities and differences. Windrush is committed to academic excellence in a supportive atmosphere. Academic records must indicate that the student functions at or above grade level.
How does Windrush ensure it graduates are prepared for the academic rigors of high school?
Teachers at Windrush are thoughtful about the curriculum they plan and observe each student's grasp of the material. They routinely assess academic skills and accomplishments to determine that every child is challenged in areas of strength and helped in areas of weakness. Strategies including time management, test preparation, editing and project planning are taught. Students learn to solve problems, to accept leadership and cooperate in a group. Curious and self-confident, Windrush students are prepared and motivated to succeed in high school.
Which standardized test does Windrush administer?
As determined by the California Association of Independent Schools, we administer the Educational Research Bureau CTP 4 (Comprehensive Testing Program) every year. The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is required for all 6th, 7th and 8th grade applicants.
What are the homework expectations?
Students have regularly assigned homework Monday through Thursday in addition to long-term projects. Homework prepares students for upcoming lessons or extends a concept introduced at school. Assignments are designed to encourage creativity, originality and curiosity by integrating diverse concepts. Homework also gives students the opportunity for practice, study and reading. Homework averages 1.5 hours nightly in 6th grade and increases to 2.5 hours in 8th grade.
How is student performance evaluated?
Teachers evaluate students' progress on an ongoing basis. They evaluate student performance through project work, class participation, tests and homework. Parents receive three written progress reports with letter grades a year. Progress reports provide detailed information regarding areas of growth, strength and challenge. Parent-teacher conferences occur twice a year-or more if needed-with the student's advisor.
How do Middle School students interact with the Elementary School students?
Both the Elementary and Middle School are on one campus. Middle school students are eager to grow up and assume more privileges, and our Buddy Program provides the opportunity for them to befriend younger children. About once a month, they work on special projects together. Some assemblies and school events involve all students.
What is the Middle School sports program?
Physical education classes are held in our full-size gymnasium or on our playing field three to four days per week. Skill building and cooperative athletics are emphasized. Flag football, soccer, basketball and volleyball are offered after school as part of our involvement in the East Bay Interscholastic Sports League. Children can play on the court and field during daily pick-up, recess and lunch.
In what way can parents be involved in the school community?
Many parents enjoy playing an active role in the Windrush community and every family is encouraged to volunteer. Parents bring their professional expertise to long and short-term projects, serve on committees and chaperone field trips. The Windrush Parent Association also offers numerous ways for parents to become involved.
What kinds of support services are available in Middle School?
Every student belongs to an advisory group that meets bi-weekly. Teachers and students discuss schoolwork, relationships and topics that concern adolescents. A learning specialist and full-time counselor are available to provide support as needed.
What types of field trips are offered?
Field trips are an integral part of the curriculum. Trips include visiting professionals at workplaces, attending musical and dramatic performances and visiting museum exhibits related to an area of study. In addition, students take extended overnight trips with an emphasis on environmental studies and cooperative group building.
