Montevideo Middle School (MMS) has a
student-centered approach that focuses on student achievement while educating
the whole child. The MMS moto is: We are not a good school, we are a GREAT
school! MMS is unique as we serve students in grades
4-7. MMS is committed to
having high expectations for all students by developing positive relationships
and providing a safe and secure learning environment.
MMS supports its students’ academic, behavioral, social, and emotional successes by
using the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) approach. Our efforts in using
MTSS over the past several years have allowed for the excellent progress in
closing the achievement gap within our disadvantaged student populations while
moving all learners forward. Academically, our Tier 1 focus is a strong core
curriculum based on the Minnesota State Standards.
In addition to standards
alignment, all students are supported through a built-in, daily-scheduled “What
I Need” (WIN) time. WIN time provides students the opportunity to get extra
help from their core teachers to increase their understanding of our essential
learning targets in a timely manner. Students who do not need additional
support during this time are encouraged to pursue several options: create a
passion project, practice independent reading, refine math and reading skills
using various online programs, or complete homework. A wide array of standardized
assessments are used to place students with math and reading difficulties in
our Tier 2 system of supports. Reading and math intervention classes are
designed to provide additional opportunities to our struggling reading and math
students and help them improve specific skills. Intervention groups are fluid;
assessment data is reviewed at least three times a year and students are placed
based on need. Students who continue to have difficulty, despite receiving Tier
1 and Tier 2 supports and interventions, may be referred to special education,
which is our Tier 3 system of academic support.
In 2017, we began implementing
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). HAWK Pride is our district motto which stands for, Have respect, Act responsibly, Work hard, and Keep
safe. A behavior matrix provides students with expected
behaviors in each area of the school. All staff strive to recognize students
who display positive HAWK Pride by giving students HAWK awards for their
efforts