Schools to Watch - Broad Creek Middle School

Broad Creek Middle School
Schools to Watch 2007

Broad Creek Middle School
2382 Highway 24
Newport, NC 28570
(252) 247-3135

Principal: Cathy Tomon

Website: http://www.carteretcountyschools.org/bcms/

Introduction:
Broad Creek Middle School is located in Carteret County, near Morehead City. The school serves approximately 540 students. The student body is made up of 3% African-American, 1% Asian, Hispanic, Native Indian and other, and 93% Caucasian. One third of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch. The school serves students students from a wide geographic region with considerable economic diversity. Broad Creek Middle School has demonstrated tremendous academic success. The faculty and students are properly proud of their accomplishments. They have been named one of the Governor's "Real Deal" Schools. They have been a School of Distinction, School of Excellence, or Honor School of Excellence from 1997-2005. The administration of Broad Creek Middle has created an environment where teachers enjoy coming to work and students enjoy learning. There is valuable input and buy in from stakeholders when making decisions for the school. Parents are very pleased with programs and the care/concern shown by teachers and staff.
Here are some of the things that make Broad Creek Middle School a School to Watch.

Evidence of Academic Excellence High expectations are communicated by everyone The committee had a hard time differentiating the special education students from the gifted. All students are challenged. Assessment were found in many and various forms: self-assessment, rubrics, projects, peer review, portfolio Faculty study groups; Renewal credit for reading; Encore teachers are able to integrate material into their curriculum Various instructional strategies involving higher order approaches to thinking/questioning were observed
Evidence of Developmental Responsiveness Teachers are passionate about their students' well-being Integrated units; Current events; For example, in PE -Walk across Germany.. 100% of students were on task Students were unbelievably civil and friendly towards us and towards each other - We observed a lesson with "proactive vs. reactive" embedded It was evident that students have input, choices, and opportunities
Evidence of Social Equity All students have access to rigorous curriculum and co-curricular activities Plethora of strategies observed: games, rubric, reports, technology FISH Philosophy has permeated the school culture. Each team leader had a fish bowl in which students could recognize each other for good character " Parent Advisory Council; Internet Danger Workshops; Computer Donation program are just a few of the programs and activities put in place to foster social equity
Evidence of Organizational Structures & Processes The FISH Philosophy has permeated the building and there is strong buy-in from faculty, staff, and students Professional Development is high priority; Staff Study Groups are developed; Book Club Parent Advisory Council is an integral part of leadership There is very tight articulation with feeder schools The school received national recognition for their efforts to rescue the Croatan National Forest
Closing Comments Parents are consistently asking for transfers to Broad Creek Middle, and the visitation committee understands why they would want to come! The administration has nurtured a family environment with high expectations for all. Everyone is known, and is encouraged to achieve to his or her potential and beyond. Students are challenged and are happy about it. They recognize they are receiving an excellent education.

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Last Updated April 23, 2007
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