Pequannock Valley Middle School is a community of learners consisting of approximately 585 students in Grades 6 through 8. All grades are organized around a teaming approach where teams of teachers are assigned to common groups of students. This allows for a coordinated approach to instruction and the possibility for interdisciplinary or “thematic” units within teams.

The 6th Grade is organized into two teams. Each of these teams shares four academic teachers. These teachers have common planning time and coordinate instruction within and across disciplines. Sixth Graders receive academic instruction in English, Math, Social Studies and Science, and participate in special cycle programs, which includes Reading, Study Skills and an introductory course in World Languages. Six Graders also study Art, Music, Computers, and Physical Education/Health as part of their instructional program.

Seventh and Eight Grade students are also organized into two teams per grade. Academic instruction in English, Math, Science and Social Studies is delivered by a common team of teachers who articulate instruction across subjects at each grade level. Seventh and Eighth Graders have the option of participating in Latin, French or Spanish to gain transcript credit for Level I - Language Study. Seventh and Eighth Grade students also participate in a cycle program of special subjects which includes Art, Music, Industrial Technology and Resources for Living, as well as Computers, Physical Education and Health.

The focus of our instructional program is to prepare our students to assume greater responsibility for their own learning in terms of study and organizational skills. The acquisition of these skills is most important as our students progress through our educational system and will help them become independent learners in High School and beyond.

A professional staff of approximately sixty individuals provides instruction for our student body. Special education programs are provided for students in need of these services. We recognize the importance of students as active learners and encourage them to use higher level thinking and a variety of instructional approaches to construct knowledge in the classroom. Cooperative learning, active participation, student research, and long-term projects are typical of the activities that help students achieve these goals. We recognize student differences in terms of learning styles and plan instructional activities that honor these differences.

Pequannock Valley Middle School strives to prepare our students for the new millennium. Our staff is currently implementing increased use of computer technology in instruction throughout the curriculum. Our computer program affords each student year-long instruction in computer technology. Our students engage in meaningful learning experiences that connect to the real world. These experiences range from basic computer skills in word processing, database, and spreadsheet to independent research using an extensive CD-ROM collection in the Library Media Center, as well as the availability of on-line services and the Internet. Our Internet connectivity has increased significantly with all classrooms and labs going on-line in the Fall of 2000.

Students at PV School can participate in a variety of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities including music performing ensembles, drama club, special interest organizations, such as Computer Club, World Language Clubs, Literary Magazine, a School Newspaper, and Intramural and Interscholastic Athletics. All of these programs enjoy a high level of participation and are geared to all our students to explore and develop a wide range of interests.

We are blessed with a high level of parent and community involvement in our school. The Home and School Association actively supports our educational program and offers parents a chance to become directly involved in a variety of projects. The “School-Based Planning Committee” reviews student achievement standards, helps to set building objectives, and has input into budgeting decisions. This committee consists of administrators, faculty, and parents. Faculty committees work cooperatively to bring about change in various aspects of school life. These committees work on projects such as our building objectives, curriculum initiatives, student discipline, “Student of the Month”, and technology.

Pequannock Valley Middle School recognizes its role in supporting the many changes that occur in the middle years of child development. We recognize the importance of providing support for the whole child to foster academic, personal, physical, emotional and social growth. We welcome your feedback and your participation in our program. By working together, we can help each child strive to reach his or her highest educational potential and make Pequannock Valley Middle School a great place to learn and grow!