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In Cluster 3, grade 6 is taught as a self-contained program for the core subjects, with a more depatmentalized approach in grades 7 and 8. The rigorous academic program culminates with the grade 8 Exiting Project. This will be thoroughly explained to students and parents throughout their Cluster experience. Successful completion of this project ensures that students are ready to transition from grade 8 to high school.
Field trips and extended off-campus experiences are an integral part of the curriculum. Past Cluster 3 trips included destinations such as the Yosemite Institute, Marin Headlands, and the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon.
Aside from the core subjects (mathematics, science, language arts and social studies) all Cluster 3 students take classes in visual arts, drama, physical education, technology, and electives. Each student is prepared for the next academic step, as demonstrated by:
- The successful completion of all academic units in the humanities, science, fine and applied arts, drama, technology, and physical education
- A review and selection of the best past work as a demonstration of skills gained
- Grades, conferences, and testing
- A presentation of the student's best work to a panel of parents, teachers, and community members
- A Writer's Workshop final portfolio presentation
- Staging of oral and written projects in mathematics, science, and the humanities
- Individual or group work from electives or outside school
- Each student will demonstrate age appropriate understanding of citizenship through:
- Community service
- Self government through student government and conflict management
- An active participation in global, local, environmental, and social issues such as hunger and over-population and the appropriate political action
- Students working in multi-aged groups
- Integrated cross-curricular learning
- Community and parental involvement
