As state and national standards change, local core curricula are altered to accommodate those revisions. Shenandoah County's youngest students begin school with a full-day kindergarten program. The kindergarten through grade 4 program is designed to be developmentally appropriate and to provide a safe and nurturing environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of all students. The middle school curriculum is designed to meet the needs of developing adolescents. Academic emphasis is on the development of skills in reading, language arts, math, science, social studies, and physical education.
Many exploratory classes allow students to discover their own interests.
Students may participate in a range of school activities and extracurricular programs. The middle schools in Shenandoah County seek to provide a gradual transition from elementary to high school. Student organizations provide experiences in responsible citizenship and give students a voice in school operations. Athletic programs, musical organizations, drama groups, school publications, and debate and forensic teams complement academic offerings, allowing students to explore their interests and develop their skills. Special Solutions Special attention is given to students who need remedial or advanced programs.