Andy Ferguson JHB MS Principal

At AISJ we believe Middle School students are at a unique time in their lives – a time when they are seeking greater independence and exploring their identity. We are committed to providing learning experiences relevant to the lives of adolescents. Through a safe, nurturing learning environment supported by caring teams of teachers, our program provides each student with opportunities to explore, inquire, and develop confidence. Our challenging academic program strives to help students make connections to the world around them and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for the 21st century. Core academic subjects are balanced with elective and exploratory classes in the arts and technology, physical education and health, and world languages. Our teachers strive to meet each student’s unique learning needs. Students are active participants in their learning; our classrooms are places of engagement, debate, student-choice, and consideration.

We believe the affective needs of the middle-level learner must be addressed to achieve academic success and personal growth. Our advisory program, which we call Imbizo, is designed to meet the developmental needs of our students, foster relationships and shape the community, and provide an adult advocate for every student. We believe the affective needs of the middle-level learner must be addressed to We believe the affective needs of the middle-level learner must be addressed to achieve academic success and personal growth. Our advisory program, which we call Imbizo, is designed to meet the developmental needs of our students, foster relationships and shape the community, and provide an adult advocate for every student. Each of our grade levels consists of four-member teacher teams that allow our teachers and students to develop strong, meaningful relationships. Our annual “Classroom Without Walls” program enables students and teachers to create enduring memories and friendships through physical, intellectual, and emotional challenges.

Our academic program is balanced with a diverse offering of extra-curricular sports and activities, opportunities for leadership, and to contribute to society. Focused on facilitating a meaningful transition to adolescence and addressing the ever-changing, complex needs of the middle-level learner; we are committed to continuous improvement based on best understandings of adolescent development and best practices in education. We are a community of learners and are always striving to be the best we can be. This handbook is for everyone involved with the Middle School and is designed to provide the foundations for academic and personal success at AISJ. It provides useful information about our educational programs, academic support services, behavioral expectations, and general policies and procedures. It is important that we all understand and adhere to these guidelines to maintain a positive, safe school environment where learning can flourish. We strongly believe that the success of any quality educational program rests in having a partnership with parents and students. We encourage you to get involved! Our faculty and staff are here to help you find success in the Middle.