6th Grade and New Student Info
Rising 6th Grader & New Student Info
Welcome to Laing!
Please complete this form so that we have contact information during the summer.
Also if you are interested in joining one of our fine arts programs please see the link below with specific information to each program. All programs are year long.
Fine Arts Programs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FOR RISING 6th GRADERS/NEW STUDENTS & PARENTS:
1. Will students have classes with their friends?
It is very possible! Students are placed on a team with a group of academic teachers as sixth graders at Laing. While we cannot guarantee students will be with their best friends, and we can’t take special requests, there is a good chance your child will have classes with his/her friends.
The great thing about middle school is the opportunity to make NEW friends. As there are several elementary feeder schools joining together, that gives students the unique opportunity to develop a critical life skill in making new acquaintances and friends!
2. How long are classes?
Core classes (ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies) are 60 minutes long, and related arts classes are 45 minutes. There is time between each class to get where they need to go.
A typical schedule for 6th grade is:
Related Arts #1 = 45 minutes
Homeroom = 15 minutes
Core Class #1 = 60 minutes
Core Class #2 = 60 minutes
Lunch/Recess = 50 Minutes
Core Class #3 = 60 minutes
Related Arts #2 = 45 minutes
Core Class #4 = 60 minutes
3. What related arts are offered? How are they chosen? How long do they last through the year?
Students in 6th grade will take two related arts each day per quarter (the 9 week grading period). These classes are randomly chosen so that the students get to experience up to 8 different classes and can better make a decision for which to choose as they move to semester long classes in 7th and 8th grade.
If students elect to take band, chorus, or orchestra, these classes last an entire year.
4. Will my child be placed in honors level classes?
At Laing we have both honors and college-prep classes at every grade level for all CORE classes. All CCSD middle school students are placed in Core Classes based on a CCSD middle school rubric that utilizes various criteria including, but not limited to, MAP scores, standardized testing scores, gifted and talented identification, etc. Regardless of your child’s placement, he/she will be exposed to a rigorous curriculum in an environment conducive to his/her learning style(s).
5. Do students have recess?
Absolutely! We understand the importance of time away from the classroom to get some exercise and fresh air and be social. Recess is offered daily.
6. What extracurricular activities/sports are available for students?
Fall and spring sports are offered through the Mt. Pleasant Recreation Department as well as through Trident Basketball Association. As tryouts come around, we will notify you of these dates via the weekly announcement email. Football is offered to 7th and 8th graders through their zoned high school. Please check the school websites for specific tryout information.
Numerous clubs are also offered as well and will be announced as sign ups and meetings take place.
7. Will I receive any communication from my child’s teachers? I am used to that!
Middle school is a time of becoming more independent and taking on more responsibility. Students will receive an agenda, where they can write down assignments and upcoming activities for each class. A weekly email will go out from the school with any announcements to the general student body. The core team of teachers will also send a weekly newsletter of things that are going on and coming up for each of those classes. You can also check your PowerSchool account to see any grades, assignments and missing work for your student. You will receive more information on how to register for this communication later.
8. Will my student be in classes with older students?
No, sixth graders have classes with other sixth graders. Each grade has a designated area of the building for their core classes and change classes at different times. Your 6th grader will be in the halls, cafeteria and recess areas with other 6th graders only.
9. Are there lockers?
No. It is stressful trying to remember a combination or open a locker while also getting to class on time. Each homeroom has a designated “cubby” for each student. Students can store extra supplies until they are needed. Please encourage your student to NOT carry around everything all day!
10. What are the school hours?
Welcome to the later hours of middle school! School is from 8:30-3:30. Doors open at 8:00 am and the tardy bell rings at 8:30. Students arriving after 8:30 a.m. will need to check in through the front office and receive a late pass (excused or unexcused) before heading to class. Dismissal is at 3:30 p.m. There are no early dismissals allowed after 3:00 p.m., so if you need to check your student out early, please make sure you come to the front office by that time. We do offer a Before School Program from 7:30am - 8:00am.
Please reach out to kim_holmes@charleston.k12.sc.us with any questions.