Lift for Life Academy’s Middle School curriculum focuses on rigorous standards for all academic disciplines. Development of reading and writing skills is emphasized in every course. Core teachers (communication arts, math, social studies and science) meet weekly with grade-level colleagues to look at how students are meeting established learning and behavioral targets. Based on performance data, the grade-level team members collaborate to refine instructional and intervention strategies to address identified needs. Teachers in both core and “specials” classes work together to integrate learning experiences around large themes relevant to young adolescents.
An emphasis on hands-on instruction enhances learning and helps students better understand what they learn in the classroom and how to relate it to their lives. Core teachers work closely with support staff that includes a social worker, guidance counselors, special education teachers and administrators to meet the needs of individual students, groups of students and the entire class.
In addition to its focus on high expectations for academic learning and performance, Lift for Life Middle School’s curriculum also addresses development of those character traits associated with being successful in school and in every aspect of life. The school emphasizes values and behaviors that lead to students understanding the importance of being a responsible and respectful member of the LFLA Middle School community. Character education is a key component of the learning program and is a part of every class. Development of critical character traits is addressed directly through class lessons and related experiential activities both in and out of the school.
Required courses for 6th, 7th and 8th graders:
• Communication arts
• Reading (6th grade)
• Mathematics (6th grade two periods)
• Social studies (6th grade combined with communication arts)
• Science
• Physical education/ health education
• Power hour (provides additional time for focused work in reading, writing and mathematics)
“Specials” courses for 6th, 7th and 8th graders:
• Visual arts
• Instrumental/performance music
• Keyboarding and basic computer usage
• World cultures
Middle School clubs/organizations and sports
Students have the opportunity to participate in interscholastic athletic activities outside of the school day. They compete against teams from other middle schools in the St. Louis metropolitan area.
All Middle School students participate in clubs based on their individual interests. Clubs are incorporated into the school hours on a regularly scheduled basis.