A Message from the Principal
Somerville Middle School, located in the county seat of Somerset,
houses students in grades six, seven, and eight. Emphasis is placed upon
individual student academic, personal, and social growth. We believe that
students learn best in a supportive and nurturing environment, which models
values and provides meaningful academic experiences. The dedicated faculty and
staff provide an outstanding academic program, exceptional opportunities in the
arts, and a vast array of co-curricular activities.
Students and teachers are organized into interdisciplinary teams
around the core areas of language arts literacy, mathematics, science, and
social studies. The NJCCS serve as the foundation of our curriculum development
and implementation. Teaming permits
teachers time together to plan lessons, activities, projects, interdisciplinary
units, and field trips for their students. In addition, parent conferences,
case studies, grade level interventions, and Child Study Team meetings occupy
the team-planning segment. Students are also scheduled for the study of world
language and physical education/health. Our comprehensive curriculum
provides for a wide and diversified array of exploratory classes in technology,
music, art, and consumer sciences. The exploratory cycles allow students to
experience an integrated curriculum as well as explore areas of interest. Our
curriculum is current and responsive to the competitive demands of society. We
offer our students the opportunity to explore the integration of science,
technology, mathematics and art during our STEM rotation. Each student is given the opportunity
to participate in instrumental and vocal music.
Students identified as gifted and talented will have the opportunity to participate in a
morning Gifted & Talented program that integrates all of the academic areas
through the exploration of different themes of interest. Special needs students
are most often accommodated in the regular education classes with the support
of a special education teacher. Enrichment is provided for all students through
a variety of grade-level team-planned activities and experiences.
Individual students needing assistance for personal, academic, and
social concerns are supported within a comprehensive guidance program that also
includes staff-supported peer-mentoring and leadership programs. Additionally,
numerous after-school activities are provided to enhance the overall
educational experience of the student and promote confidence and self-esteem.
Activities include fall, winter, and spring athletics, cheerleading, Student
Council, National Junior Honor Society, drama, the school newspaper, and
robotics. Somerville Middle School boasts of award-winning concert, jazz, and
marching bands, as well as a performing chorus.
Somerville Middle School continues to work together to inspire,
through word and action, a spirit of community, sense of pride, respect for
others, and a commitment to academic excellence.