The middle years reflect that time between childhood and adolescence and Swift's Middle Division curriculum is designed with sensitivity for the developmental changes present in the lives of middle school students.

Curriculum

Students are guided through a curriculum that reflects increased complexities and challenges while learning to communicate effectively and meet the demands for increased personal responsibility. Paving the way for independent success is a guiding principle of the Swift Middle Division.

The structure of courses is guided by both state and national standards and follow a traditional sequence for grades 6-8 in the language arts, mathematics, and social studies. The science curriculum is lab-based according the national standards so all learning is based on observation and manipulation.

Digital Learning Environment (DLE)

The Digital Learning Environment (DLE) opens doors through the use of sophisticated technological applications in the core courses. Swift School is currently in Phase Two of its technology plan and increasingly students are provided with digitized learning tools that allow them to transfer their assignments to teachers and parents. The DLE opens the world of specialized writing and research programs that truly enhance multisensory learning applications.

Electives

The idea of 'learning to learn' is another guiding principle. Students are scheduled for study skills classes throughout the middle years.

A host of elective courses - ranging from the fine arts to forensics - are offered. Students who require additional support in language related areas are assigned to Altitudes classes where they are instructionally supported with the Orton-Gillingham Approach.

Athletics

Swift School is a member of the Atlanta Athletic Association, and students have a range of opportunities to demonstrate their athletic abilities on the fields and gymnasiums as they play interscholastic team sports. Middle Division students play soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country events, baseball and softball.

Service

Service learning provides important life lessons during the middle years, and Swift Middle Division students participate in a variety of service projects designed to meet a broad range of needs in the Roswell community.

Travel

Extended travel is an important aspect of the middle years. When students and teachers travel together to destinations linked to their studies, a bond is formed that often lasts a lifetime. Typically each spring 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th graders take an extended field trip to places such as the Florida Keys, Washington, D.C. or a tour of Georgia's natural resources.

At the onset of an academic year Swift Middle Division students are afforded a Retreat experience. This overnight, off campus experience is designed to allow students to organize the student council activities as well as to plan service learning projects. The Ambassadors program provides students a myriad of opportunities to serve the Swift community as spokespersons and leaders.

Guidance

As students approach 8^th grade another of our guiding principles carries them forward as they prepare to enter the high school years. It is important for students to be aware of what they want their futures to look like, and therefore they are guided to the high schools that most closely match their outlook.