John Glenn Introduction

Introduction to John Glenn Middle School of International Studies

Principal: Jean Carroll
Enrollment: 1,350
Grade Configuration: 6-8
Daily Schedule: Eight-Period Day

“ John Glenn Middle School of International Studies is an international school. All students study Spanish or French for all three years. An understanding of our own culture, as well as the cultures of other countries, enriches discussion and activities focused on the California content standards. Principles of the International Baccalaureate Middle Grades Program are in place.”
- From John Glenn Middle School of International Studies’ application

Distinctive Characteristics

Academic Excellence

Clear and high expectations are in every class; students are expected to meet rigorous standards.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Grades Program enriches curriculum and instruction for all students.
Integrated, thematic instruction is tied to the IB program.
Academy teacher teams meet daily for Academic and Curriculum Enhancement for Students (ACES), and this planning enhances student success.
All 6th grade students participate in ATLAS to learn skills needed for success: planning, note taking, communication and a positive sense of self.
Many intervention options are available to students.
An eight-period day allows for interventions and electives.

Developmental Responsiveness

Transitions with feeder elementary schools and destination high schools are smooth and effectively planned.
Student voice is an active part of the curriculum. Students frequently revise work, develop rubrics and create anchors.
Interdisciplinary instruction makes real-world connections for students.
An eight-period day allows each teacher to have two planning periods; planning involves focused, standards-based professional development.
A flexible, team-structured schedule creates many opportunities to extend and expand learning.
The school clearly understands the developmental needs of young adolescents and provides educational experiences that meet these needs.

Social Equity

The eight-period day allows English learners and lower-level students opportunities to have both effective intervention and an elective.
English learners are expected to meet the same high expectations as other students.
Students often cross economic, cultural and social lines to socialize with each other. The school encourages respect for all.

Organizational Support

Teachers are committed and go the distance to make things happen for students.
The school vision is shared by everyone; the faculty enjoys grappling with difficult problems.
Professional development is keyed to student learning.
The district is solidly behind the principal and school.

Future Work Includes

Connecting more fully to parents, particularly parents of English Learner students
Focusing on additional supports for student writing
Adding more advisory and advocacy supports for students

California League of Middle Schools
6615 East Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 120, Long Beach, California 90803
Voice: 562/430-3136 or 800/326-1880 . . . FAX: 562/430-5607. . . E-Mail: info@clms.net