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School Handbook
Lus Hmoob
Recreation Program through Madison School & Community Recreation |
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Michael Hernandez |
PTA/O President(s): Vacant
Parent Contact(s): Angela Nash, (608) 242-9123; Beth Sweeden, (608) 233-7916; Kari Douglas, (608) 244-1649
High School Attendance Area: East
School Web Site: http://www.madison.k12.wi.us/sherman/
![[Sherman Middle School]](228.jpg)
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The staff at Sherman Middle School is dedicated to developing curriculum that actively involves the young adolescent learner and engages every student in applying their knowledge and skills toward topics and issues that are based on curriculum standards, grounded in the interests of young adolescents, and take into consideration the cultures of students. Sherman Middle School is a comprehensive school reform (CSR) site that is influenced by the Turning Points Design. Turning Points middle schools are influenced by 7 principles that are translated into 6 practices:
These principles translate into the following practices:
The staff at Sherman also organize their work around the MMSD Educational Framework by focusing on high quality learning, high quality relationships, and engagement of students. Student equity is also a key priority at Sherman. |
[ Site Characteristics ||
Academic Programming ||
School Climate ]
[ Partnerships ||
Quotes ||
Links ]
Sherman Middle School, named after Roger Sherman, one of the authors and signers of the Declaration of Independence, is located on Madison's north side in a culturally diverse area with a wealth of human resources from many cultures, races, ages, social and economic backgrounds. The sense of community among residents is a special feature of the north side that is recognized by many city leaders.
The average class size in core content area courses and exploratories is 23 students. In elective classes (e.g., music) size is based on student interest.
Metro fixed Route 22 serves Sherman Middle School from stops along Sherman Avenue. Routes 2 and 28 stop on Aberg Avenue at Ruskin Street. Supplemental Service Routes 102, 103 and 127 provide additional connections before and after school from Sherman Middle School attendance areas.
Sherman offers a hot lunch program which includes pre-packaged and a la carte items each day. Sherman also offers a morning snack program that takes place each morning during homeroom/advisory time. Many Sherman students remain after school for homework centers, the Youth Resource Center, clubs, 8th hour classes and evening tutoring. Snacks and light meals are available for students who remain at Sherman until 5:00 or 6:15 p.m. for after school opportunities.
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Guiding principles and key components of the Sherman Middle School program include but are not limited to the following:
Sherman Middle School has a wide range of technology opportunities with a focus on technology that is integrated into the general curriculum. Sherman has two computer labs as well as Internet stations in the Library Media Center. Students in grades 6 and 7 spend one quarter in Sherman's Applied Technology Program. In 8th grade, Sherman students learn how to apply technology through the creation of a business and marketing plan. Sherman students also create an electronic portfolio to showcase their school work while learning a variety of technology skills. An advanced computer class is offered two times a year during 8th hour. A mobile computer lab is available as well as a variety of assistive technologies.
Student learning experiences include a broad range of opportunities that push a student to their next level of challenge and allows them to develop their individual talents. Programming for students with unique gifts and talents is determined through ongoing assessment and evaluation. For more information, please contact Sherman Middle School Learning Coordinator Barb Brodhagen at 204-2568.
Sherman Middle Student Equity Leadership Council meets monthly to identify and problem-solve concerns in the school and immediate neighborhood. Another important part of the school day takes place after school. Students can choose from 35 different clubs (including a homework center that meets every day from 2:50-3:25) and intramural sports activities after which they can attend the Youth Resource Center. The drop-in center is designed to provide a safe environment after school as well as a time when students can play games, listen to music, dance and hang out with their friends. The drop-in center is open until 5:00 p.m. A late bus is available. Evening tutoring is available Monday — Thursday from 5:00 - 6:15 p.m. Students are provided with a light dinner, access to university/college tutors, and bus tickets to get home.
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Sherman Middle School is a positive place where students, staff and parents feel good about the school and where important learning occurs. In order for Sherman Middle School to be a positive place, appropriate behavior is necessary and expected. Misbehavior disrupts the school and the education of students. To this end, the students and staff have developed a P.O.I.N.T. system (which was named by the students and stands for "Possessing Opportunities Inviting Numerous Treats.") The program is intended to increase student awareness of responsible behavior and to regularly show appreciation for students' positive actions.
When a student has a conflict with a student or an adult, staff work with the students to resolve the issue. Our support staff (guidance, social work, psychology, and nurse) teach classroom units on conflict resolution and problem solving. We bring in community speakers to help staff and students discuss communication, conflict and self esteem. Sherman students also work with Shabazz City High School peer mediators to encourage appropriate resolutions to conflict.
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Sherman has a Parent Organization known as PACTS (Parents And Community, Teachers, Students) that meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the LMC. Special initiatives are established by the PACTS Board and these are shared through the school newsletter, special mailings as well as their monthly meeting. Sherman also has an active African American Parent group that meets on a regular basis and various supports and groups for parents of Sherman's English Language Learners. For more information on these two groups, please contact Kit Laibly at 204-2568.
Sherman staff have always regarded the community as a vital part of our future. We have a variety of partnerships with local neighborhood businesses, service organizations and a variety of agencies that serve the north side. These partners support our fundraising, tutor and mentor programs and many community service activities.
Sherman Middle School works in collaboration with the Wisconsin University campuses of Madison, La Crosse, Platteville and Whitewater to provide training experiences for student teachers and interns. In addition, Sherman is a site for a variety of university studies and works with consultants from around the world to ensure quality middle school programming is taking place.
If you would like to learn more about Sherman Middle School, please telephone 204-2568 to schedule a tour or spend some time meeting with one of Sherman's grade level support staff.
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"I feel like students have a voice about what goes on in school."
-- Sherman Student"There are so many different clubs you can join at Sherman. There's really something for everyone."
-- Sherman Student"I like all the projects we do in class and that we get to work together with other students."
-- Sherman Student"At Sherman, the teachers listen to us. We get to have a say in what is happening at our school."
-- Sherman Student"I really like the service learning concept. I think it's wonderful that students are encouraged to give back to the community."
-- Sherman Parent"Sherman's unique parent organization -- one that has community members -- broadens our perspective as parents."
-- Sherman Parent"I think the evening basketball program is great! It gives me something to do with my friends during the winter and we play some tough teams, too."
-- Sherman Student
Remember, you're "At Home At Sherman Middle School!"
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http://www.madison.k12.wi.us
Last Updated: 2007-07-20
