Kennedy Introduction

J.F. Kennedy Middle School : Introduction

Principal: Renato Montano
Enrollment: 771 students; 99% in poverty; 58% English learners; Hispanic
Grade Configuration: 6-8
Daily Schedule: 7-period day (includes 37-minute Advisory)
Achievement Data: 2004 API of 632; 2003 statewide rank of 3, similar school rank of 9;
API growth of 50 points in a three-year period

Distinctive Characteristics

Academic Excellence

Strong, coordinated support for students learning English
Flexible schedule designed to meet learning needs of students
Technology is actively used to facilitate learning
All teachers provide high-quality, student-focused direct instruction using standards-aligned assessment materials

Developmental Responsiveness

Connections across curriculum and to students’ cultural background and interests abound in every classroom
Parent involvement is key: “How to Help Your Child Succeed in School” program gives parents the skills they need to support learning
Many enrichment activities offered after school and on Saturdays to connect and motivate students
Physical education classes stress healthy lifestyles and promote exercise; PE connected to other disciplines
School is the center of the community

Social Equity

School has created a “safe haven” for students and has transformed the culture of the local neighborhood
Every teacher is committed to ensuring that each student succeeds; there is total involvement by all staff
62% reduction in discipline referrals since the principal came to school
Strong student-centered culture gets students involved and connected, reducing discipline issues

Organizational Support

Data-driven school culture
School seeks to identify learning issues early and quickly provide means for support and remediation
Strong community and family connections
Many of the current teachers are former students of the school
Teacher empowerment is everywhere; many teacher-leaders with positive decision-making roles
Teachers coach and support one another
Culture of continual improvement

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