We believe that learning is a cumulative, lifelong, natural activity. Much of a student's learning takes place within the formal structure of public education. From learning comes the acquisition of knowledge, a major goal of the educational process.
As a middle school, John F. Kennedy provides a transitional learning period between the student-centered elementary school and the subject-centered high school. This period is an experimental and exploratory time in a student's life. Our in-structional strategies, curriculum, and team teaching organization all reflect the unique nature of the middle school learner.
Students undergo rapid physical, social, emotional, and intellectual changes during their middle school years. Therefore, we must provide a wide spectrum of opportunities to students who are growing at different rates and are at a vulnerable and impressionable time in their development. Students are encouraged to reach their academic potential and develop into responsible citizens, capable of ethical and moral decisions.
School personnel are responsible for providing an environment conducive to learning. While the classroom teacher is a primary facilitator of student development, the influence of other staff members is significant. As ethical and moral role models, the staff in its interaction with students should encourage and exhibit appropriate behavior, consideration, and respect for others.
The teaching staff's primary task is to present learning opportunities while assessing students' needs and achievements. This assessment should be con-sistent with a realistic evaluation of student abilities. Staff members should structure learning experiences which encourage the positive aspects of students, improving their self-esteem by recognizing and rewarding their achievements.
We believe it is necessary for the community to respond to and support the growth and changes in the educational process. The involvement of both community and parents is essential to student success. By supporting the efforts of the school, parents encourage their children to accept new challenges and meet responsibilities. Parents who communicate with teachers and monitor their children's progress reinforce the goals and philosophy of John F. Kennedy Middle School and the Enfield School System.
