Middle School (6–8)

At ECMS, we believe that a comprehensive, culturally responsive, anti-racist, and anti-bias critical literacy education plan supports students in their development of conceptual understanding, procedural knowledge, and literacy practices. ECMS’s ELA  is composed of engaging, relevant, and purposeful learning opportunities that prioritize students’ social-emotional connections and academic mindset.

The Cultural Literacy curriculum integrates the subjects of English and Social Studies and is co-taught by two educators - one from each discipline. CL focuses on the ability to read, write, think, and speak in ways that enable students to address complex real-world issues.

In the middle school math classroom, students participate in diverse math communities where a variety of thinking and learning are invaluable. Students collaboratively explore, problem solve, and huddle around key math concepts, strategies, questions, and challenges.

8th graders have an opportunity to take Algebra based on a variety of factors including MAP testing, teacher, student and parent input.

The ECMS Science Program uses the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in conjunction with the PA Science Standards to develop a curriculum that engages in the three dimensions of the NGSS for successful science instruction: content, practices, and crosscutting concepts.

Middle School Environmental Citizenship classes prepare students to become resilient citizens aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Using design and systems thinking, students explore their local environments and engage in hands-on, project-based learning. They use maker-centered learning, technology, and coding to prototype solutions. The program emphasizes student identity, agency, and voice, focusing on environmental justice, citizenship, and sustainability.

The purpose of Diversified Studies is to provide middle school students the opportunity to engage in a variety of subjects in a way that sparks curiosity and prepares students to make personal learning choices so that students develop a passion for learning early on in life.

Performance Ensembles - one semester (2 quarters) or full year (4 quarters) only:

*Band - Rehearse and perform playing band instruments in a group - this includes flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, other brass & woodwinds, and percussion (sorry, it's not drumset!).
*Orchestra - Rehearse and perform playing string instruments in a group - violin, viola, cello, double bass.
*Choir - Rehearse and perform in a vocal ensemble (singing).

Language Class:
*Spanish 2 (7th & 8th Grade Only) - Deepen communication skills with expanded vocabulary and grammar.

Performing Arts Classes:
*Drama -  Learn the basics of acting, stage presence, and backstage skills like set design and prop creation.
*Intro to Instrumental - Try out keyboard, drums, guitar, ukulele, and bass while learning how to read music and play in a group.
*Modern Band - Play instruments such as guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums, and rehearse songs together from different genres such as rock and R&B.
*Music & Movement - Create dance routines, improve coordination, and build performance confidence.
*Drumline - Focus on teamwork, percussion technique, and marching-style drumming.

Visual Arts Classes:
*Drawing - Explore drawing to bring your ideas to life.
*Painting - Explore painting through fun techniques like color mixing, brushwork, and abstract styles.