Encore & Exploratory Classes
8th Coding & Programming
Do you love solving puzzles and figuring out how things work? Then, you will love our "Coding and Programming" class - no experience required! Learn how to write code and create your own programs. You will start with the basics of coding, learning about things like variables, loops, and conditionals. Practice with coding languages beyond blocks, like HTML and Python. Work on projects with your classmates, learning to collaborate and problem-solve as a team. By the end of the class, you will have a strong foundation in coding and programming and be able to use your skills to create amazing things in the future.
8th Graphic Design and Digital Media
Are you interested in creating cool digital art and designing your own graphics? Then sign up for "Graphic Design and Digital Media"- no experience required! In this class, you will learn to make your own digital masterpieces. Learn about color theory, typography, and layout, and apply these concepts to create projects using a variety of digital design tools. Work with your classmates and develop your creativity and problem-solving skills. By the end of the class, you will have a great foundation in graphic design and digital media, and you will be able to use your skills to make amazing things in the future.
PRO-Time
All 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students participate in PRO-Time every day. PRO-Time is a structure to ensure that every student in the building is known well by at least one adult. Teachers and small groups of students meet every day to strengthen relationships between students and a significant adult who will provide support and direction for each student.
Family and Consumer Science (FACS)
6th/7th Grade Even Years (Fall)
This exploratory course is divided between the classroom and kitchens, exposing students to topics including personal finance, career exploration, interior design, and healthy preparation and consumption of foods.
6th/7th Grade Odd Years (Fall)
This exploratory course is divided between the classroom and kitchens, exposing students to topics including relationships, career exploration, textiles, and healthy preparation and consumption of foods.
8th Grade
This exploratory semester-long course is divided between the classroom and kitchens, exposing students to topics including kitchen safety and sanitation, knife skills, nutrients, cultural foods, food science and entrepreneurship, personal finance, and career exploration. This enhances the skills learned from Year 1 and Year 2 Family and Consumer Science courses.
Fine Arts
6th, 7th and 8th Grade
In middle school, students have the opportunity to explore a variety of fine arts, including Visual Arts, Choir, Orchestra, Band, General Music, and Theatre Production. In Visual Arts, students develop creativity through drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media, learning about famous artists and techniques. Choir allows students to refine their vocal skills, explore different musical styles, and perform in group settings. Orchestra and Band provide opportunities to learn and master instruments, perform as an ensemble, and develop music theory knowledge. General Music introduces students to musical concepts, history, and composition, fostering a broad appreciation for music. In Theatre Production, students engage in acting, set design, and stage management, building confidence and collaboration skills. These fine arts programs encourage self-expression, discipline, and teamwork, helping students grow as artists and performers.
Gifted Education
6th through 8th Grades
The Sioux Falls Gifted Program is designed to respond to the needs and special characteristics of gifted students by providing the opportunity for them to pursue and develop their potential for excellence. Students participate in an academic pull-out program that follows a curriculum designed to develop collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The curriculum focuses on STEAM units designed to specifically challenge the gifted learner. This program serves identified gifted students according to the Sioux Falls School District guidelines.
Health
The middle school sexual health curriculum can be viewed at the Instructional Planning Center (IPC) during business hours. If you feel it is better for your child not to participate in the sexual health unit, please contact your middle school building principal for other arrangements during the time when your child’s health class is studying this topic. For more information, please call the middle school curriculum coordinator at (605) 367-7871.
Očéti Šakówiŋ Owáuŋspe (OSO)
All 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students enroll in a year-long OSO class, that introduces students to our services that are designed to connect students to Native American Culture.
6th Grade
Essential Understanding: The origin, thought and philosophy of the Oceti Sakowin continues in the contemporary lifestyles of tribal members. Tribal cultures, traditions, and languages are incorporated and are observed by many tribal members both on and off the reservations.
7th Grade
Essential Understanding: The origin, thought and philosophy of the Oceti Sakowin continues in the contemporary lifestyles of Tribal members. Tribal cultures, traditions, and languages are incorporated and are observed by many Tribal members both on and off the reservations.
8th Grade
Essential Understanding: Federal policies and treaties put into place throughout American history have affected Oceti Sakowin people adversely. Tribes as sovereign nations have the authority to enter into government-to-government relationships. Currently, the relationships with the State are not the same for each tribe.
Physical Education (PE)
The Sioux Falls School District’s middle school physical education curriculum is guided by national and state standards in physical education. These standards outline for students what they must demonstrate, value, and maintain in order to lead a physically active lifestyle. Physical Education class is every other day, all year, at each grade level.