Justin Simmons[email protected]
School SummarySouth County Middle School established our new beginning as a stand-alone middle school in September 2012. From the opening of South County Secondary School in 2005 through June of 2012, the secondary school housed both middle and high school programs that supported the concept of integrated seven through twelve instructional, student services and student activities programs. At South County Secondary School a strong culture and tradition of academic excellence was built. South County Middle School continues that culture in an environment that focuses on the unique needs of middle school students. Despite its presence as a stand-alone middle school, SCMS students, staff, and community members continue collaboration and connections with South County High School which lies adjacent to the middle school.
Our students are grouped into interdisciplinary teams of approximately 140 students. This middle school team concept provides support for students as they transition from elementary to high school. An interdisciplinary team consists of the four core teachers and a school counselor. Each team collaborates as a professional learning community to support the learning needs of each student in conjunction with the strong support from parents and the community. The curriculum is enhanced by integrating state-of-the art technology in each classroom. The school offers an Advanced Academic Program including an Advanced Academic Level IV Center and Honors courses in the four core subjects, as well as high school credit courses in math and World Languages. Our English as a Second Language Program develops the English language proficiency of our ESOL student population. We encourage our students to take an active role in their education by exploring the variety of academic offerings through core and elective classes. There are also opportunities for students to get involved in their school community through extracurricular activities and the after school program. We believe that participation in many aspects of middle school life helps to create a well-rounded student. As a staff, we strive to help students become CAPABLE, CONNECTED, and CONTRIBUTING individuals during their middle school experience.
SCMS is built near two historical sites in the local area. The site on which the school is constructed was the location of one of the original Nike (missile) Control Sites. This system was designed to defend Washington, D.C. and other important locations around the U.S. during the Cold War. The other nearby historical site was the grounds for the former DC Department of Corrections facility at Lorton which housed inmates from Washington, D.C. for nearly 100 years, and where female suffragists picketing the White House were held. It now has been converted into a museum and an arts center where artists can create, display and sell their art.
The South County Middle School community is committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment, providing a rigorous academic program, and encouraging a healthy life style that supports respect for oneself and others, exhibits honesty and integrity, and nurtures positive relationships.
Last Updated: 2019-02-01