Welcome to
South Lake Middle School
We’re thrilled to partner with you as your child begins an exciting new chapter. At South Lake, we are proud to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon and California Distinguished School, known for our commitment to academic excellence, strong relationships, and a safe, inclusive learning environment. Our school community is like a family—where every student is seen, supported, and inspired to thrive. We can’t wait to get to know you and your student as we begin this journey together!
South Lake Cares
Take Care of Our School
Respect our shared environment
Take Care of Each Other
Build strong and supportive relationships
Take Care of Yourself
Develop healthy habits and student agency
Our Mission: All South Lake students will become intellectual risk takers who persevere within a safe yet rigorous learning environment to navigate college and career options with confidence, skills, and diligence.
Our Beliefs
Each Student is Unique
With a variety of capacities and potential.
High Expectations with High Support
Using a Standards-Based Mindset.
Student Independence
Students take charge of their own success.
Strong Connections
Meeting students where they are.
Parenting During Middle School
Expect Changes
Academic, social, emotional, and physical changes are normal. Their brains are still developing!
Smartphone Concerns
Parenting Tips
Elective Options
Trimester Electives
Yearlong Electives
Support Classes
All students take ONE elective. Students wanting more than one elective can enroll in Bonus Period PE.
Shark Time & Homeroom
Purpose
Dedicated time for academic support, social/emotional support, or enrichment based on student need.
Assignment
Based on academic performance, student interest, counselor referral, or teacher recommendation.
Activities
Options include Mythology, Crafting, Math Support, Origami, Croquet, Dungeons & Dragons, Chess, Robotics, Competitive Sports, Film club, Robotics, NHD, NASA, eSports, Bookworms, and many more.
Homeroom
Time to build relationships with teachers and classmates through spirit events and social/emotional learning.
Academic Placement
Core Classes
All students take World History, English, Science/Health, Math, and PE.
Math Placement
Determined in 6th grade using multiple measures to ensure appropriate challenge.
Intervention Support
Reading Lab, Math Lab, Directed Studies, and ELD classes provide targeted support.
Bonus Period PE
Students in support electives can add another elective by taking Bonus period PE.
South Lake is committed to the appropriate placement of ALL students.
Beyond the Classroom
Athletic Programs
Lunch Time Sports, Sole Sisters, Competitive Sports and Tournament of Champions build teamwork and physical fitness.
Academic Competitions
National History Day, Science Fair, Robotics Competitions, and Math Counts challenge students intellectually.
Student Life
Youth Action Team, ASB Activities, Lunch Time Activities and Homeroom events build community and leadership skills.
Please read our weekly newsletter for information about South Lake!
Save the Date for Transition Camp on Wednesday, August 13th
Next Steps…