Knowledge

O'Hara's Middle School curriculum is extraordinary! It is engaging and rigorous and students are well prepared for high school and advanced placement.

• Higher order thinking skills are incorporated into all subjects. Students analyze, synthesize, and apply knowledge in accelerated ways.
• Subjects are taught to a mastery level, reaching well beyond Oregon State standards.
• Students perform advanced Science labs with the latest equipment.
• Social Studies knowledge is articulated through analytical writing and challenging projects.
• Five levels of Math are offered, with students placed and challenged at their achievement level.
• Students write across the curriculum, with writing portfolios compiled for every student. Writer's Workshop offers a creative interdisciplinary way to strengthen writing skills.
• Literature studies involve critical analysis of a variety of texts, including classic novels.
• Stong teacher-student relationships, continuity of instruction, and acceleration of learning are a result of 7th and 8th grade students having the same instructors for two years.
• All classrooms are "smart rooms" with the latest interactive technology and wireless mobile lab.
• Students have twice weekly instruction with specialists in fine arts, music, Spanish, technology, and P.E.
• Elective classes include courses such as public speaking, photography, drama, choir, forensic science, oil painting, history, and sports.
• Students actively participate in a wide range of curricular programs such as the science fair, art shows, and musical productions.