| Small
Size* |
Teachers
know all the students. |
| No Grades |
Students are awarded
credit in proportion to the quality of work and amount of work completed. The
percentage of points achieved in a class equals the percent of credit earned. |
| Mixed-age Classes |
For many classes,
students are grouped according to ability rather than grade level. Other classes
are more general, but expectations are higher for those with higher abilities.
The small size of Northstar allows teachers to assess all our students. |
| Social Skills &
Personal Development |
An advisor/advisee
system called Support Group exists for all students, and they stay with this
group for their time at Northstar. In addition to school business, Support Group
teaches social skills development, personal development and is a route for
students to receive help in handling minor student/student conflicts. **Note:
Student/Teacher conflicts are handled by the staff (another teacher may mediate
if necessary). Serious issues (e.g. those involving safety and security) are
handled by the staff and/or principal. |
| Weekly Staff
Meetings |
School is dismissed
at 12:00 noon on Wednesdays to allow the staff to plan curriculum around the
year's theme and meet with support staff. In addition to curriculum development
and school business, students are discussed and plans are made to assist those
experiencing difficulties. |
| Thematic Classes |
Teachers develop
their own curriculum to meet the district curriculum framework in unique ways |
| Community Service
Requirement |
All students are
expected to meet a minimum requirement of 30 hours of community service per
year. It is recommended that students use Wednesday afternoons for this purpose. |
| Early Access to
High School |
Students who excel at
Northstar have the opportunity to take classes at Lake Washington High School.
Eighth and ninth grade students who have demonstrated responsible behavior and
academic ability may take classes at LWHS on a space-available basis. Many
choose to pursue foreign language and advanced math and science classes at LWHS. |
| Parent Involvement |
Student/Teacher/Parent conferences are held several times per year. At these
meetings student progress is discussed, the student's schedule for the next
semester is determined, and individual needs are addressed. Parent involvement
may include planning and conducting special classes, organizing enrichment
opportunities, helping to plan and facilitate field trips, and providing support
to the school. |
* Northstar is a small school with a maximum
enrollment of 90, however, class sizes are at the same Teacher / Student ratio as in other
district Junior Highs.