Laguna Niguel

Niguel Hills Middle School

Grades: 6 through 8

A vibrant learning community, Niguel Hills Middle School offers students a supportive environment to grow academically, socially and emotionally. All students are encouraged to take part in a challenging academic program that prepares them to meet the rigorous course work of high school and beyond, while they develop the skills of lifelong learners.

The curriculum at Niguel Hills focuses on a core curriculum of English, social science, mathematics and science, and also offers an electives program that enables students to experience practical and fine arts.

Study skills, time management and career goals are integrated into the curriculum. Standardized test scores place Niguel Hills significantly above state and national averages.

As a staff, we recognize that the middle school years are a time of change and transition for students. We strive to create a positive atmosphere by offering students many opportunities to develop interests and talents in music, art, drama, writing, sports, community activities, student government, foreign language and computers.

Students in grades 6 and 7 are grouped in curricular teams to more effectively support student success. Eighth-grade language arts and social science teachers collaborate in humanities teams. Individual growth and development are enhanced by our Homework Club, tutorials, classes in studies skills and reading development, and an exemplary program for gifted and talented students.

The Peer Assistance Leadership (PAL) class performs school and community service and assists new students.

School wide activities nurture a sense of pride in Niguel Hills. Spirit assemblies, school dances, clubs, student government, field trips and cultural events enable students to come together and interact positively among a diverse group of young people.

Administrators and teachers promote an atmosphere of tolerance and respect for all. Classrooms are alive with varied learning strategies and innovative approaches.

Parents and staff work collaboratively to support and maintain a safe and orderly campus, which plays a major role in the success and achievement of our students.

At Niguel Hills, students learn to be responsible for the world around them and, more importantly, for themselves. We strive to be a learning community where parents, teachers and administrators work together for the success of each student.

Program Highlights:

• Interdisciplinary curricular teams
• Computer labs
• Foreign language classes
• Drama classes and performances
• Academic Pentathlon teams
• Wide array of elective choices
• Extra-curricular clubs
• Friendly, supportive faculty
• Involvement in Destination Imagination, Odyssey of the Mind, Future Problem Solving, speech contests and other academic competitions
• Special education programs: Resource Specialist program and Special Day Classes
• English Language Development (ELD) instruction
• Choral and instrumental music
• YMCA after-school sports
• Field trips
• After-school homework assistance
• Organized school spirit activities
• Active PTSA
• Special learning events: Ancient Civilization Fair, Medieval Fair, History Day and Career Day
• Accelerated Academic Achievement (AAA) program
• Model fine arts program
• Jazz band and string ensemble
• Solo and ensemble performances
• Positive reinforcement programs
• Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program
• Mathematics and reading intervention classes
• Peer Assistance Leadership (PAL)