Willard Middle School

Welcome to Willard Middle School
It is the purpose of Willard Middle School to attend to the development of the whole child; to assist them in the transitory period of their lives; to challenge them to grow both academically as well as developmentally; to prepare them for the next stage of their educational careers; and to guide them in becoming productive citizens in society.Curriculum and Academic Rigor
Willard strives to provide students with a rigorous, standards-based curriculum. Project-based learning is emphasized in the classroom. Academic emphasis is placed on: literature, reading, written language development, social studies, mathematics, science, and physical education. In addition, students are exposed to computers, visual and performing arts, foreign language, debate, publishing, nutrition, and cooking. Reading, Language and Math academy classes assist students who need extra instruction and support.Willard Middle School Facilities
Willard Middle School offers a spacious campus where students learn, socialize, and utilize the skills that are needed to be productive citizens in society. The campus includes 30 recently modernized classrooms including: 3 science labs, 2 computer labs, an art room, music room, metal-shop/theater, gym, cooking room and library. Students also learn and socialize outdoors in our amphitheater, our acre garden, or our athletic field. Classes take advantage of Willard Park, adjacent to the campus for a number of activities and experiential learning opportunities. Students at Willard eat their breakfast and lunches in our large cafetorium. This space is also used for assemblies and performances.Willard Staff
Staff at Willard is second to none. Each student is assigned to a team of teachers. Each team is a “school within a school”. In this environment, teachers are better able to network in providing assistance to students needing support. Staff works hard to provide a rigorous standards-based curriculum for all. Curriculum is modified to challenge students at their level, and supplemental activities are provided to further challenge all. Willard LEARNS, Extended Day Learning Experience
The extended day program at Willard Middle School offers students academic as well as enrichment opportunities. Grade level Homework Centers with tutors from UC Berkeley are in place to assist students with academic success. Students may also take advantage of enrichment activities such as: Cooking, Ceramics, Drama, Dance, Percussion, Chess Club, film class, etc. The Willard LEARNS extended day program is an excellent way to allow students to socialize, study, and learn in an atmosphere that is safe and positive. For more information on Willard LEARNS, click here.Willard Athletics
Willard believes it is important for students to have the opportunity to participate in organized sports. Student athletes, who meet the academic requirements, are encouraged to tryout for one of our many sports teams. Sports including: volleyball, cross-country, basketball, soccer, softball, ultimate frisbee, track and Field, and baseball, are just some of the after-school sports teams here at Willard. Sports are another opportunity for students to display exemplary character.Parent Partnerships
Willard depends greatly on the involvement of parents in the academic careers of the students at the school. Parents are encouraged to be active members of our PTA. The organization raises funds for school activities; sponsors campus beatification projects; is involved in the organization of family nights; and assists in putting on parent education forums. Parents also serve on the school’s Governance Committee recommending how categorical dollars and other monies should be allocated. Monthly teas are held allowing parents to come together and discuss issues pertinent to the middle school child. Focus groups such as the Latino Family Club bring parents with similar backgrounds together to socialize and talk about how to assist their child in their academic success.

You Are What You Eat
Willard students are provided great- tasting, nutritious meals for both breakfast and lunch. Students may buy their lunch from a number of ethnic foods from Asia, Europe, and Central America. In addition, food service maintains a delicious salad bar featuring a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and nuts.

Positive Behavioral Supports
All students and staff live by the three rules of Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Responsible. It is our philosophy that we want to be proactive in dealing with the trials of adolescents. Staff focuses on the positive behaviors of students, recognizes them, and rewards students for striving to make positive contributions to their environments. Advisory classes are in place to challenge students to process issues faced by all of us in today’s society. Issues such as, bullying, navigating social media, drug and weapon awareness and safety, celebration of diversity, etc. are just some of the topics discussed in Advisory.