Shenandoah Middle School
General Information
Reviews
Shenandoah Middle School is widely regarded by parents and students alike as a nurturing and academically rigorous institution. Many parents praise the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment where students feel valued and encouraged to excel both academically and socially. The faculty is often described as approachable, dedicated, and passionate about student success. Students appreciate the diverse extracurricular activities offered, which range from sports teams to arts clubs, helping to create a well-rounded school experience. Community feedback highlights the school’s active engagement with local organizations and families, which strengthens the sense of belonging and safety within the school. Some parents note improvements over the years in communication between teachers and families, making it easier to stay informed about student progress. Overall, Shenandoah Middle School carries a positive reputation for balancing academic standards with emotional and social support, contributing to a healthy, vibrant school culture.
Contact Information
- Phone: (540) 829-4736
- Email: contact@shenandoahms.edu
- Address: 673 Maple Avenue, Winchester, VA 22601
- Website: www.shenandoahms.edu
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1983 |
| Grades Served | 6-8 |
| Total Students | 587 |
| Faculty Count | 52 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 11.3:1 |
| School Type | Public |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 4th |
Shenandoah Middle School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Fine Arts
- Technology and Computer Science
- Special Education
Shenandoah Middle School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- English Literature and Composition
- Algebra I and Pre-Algebra
- General Science
- American History
- Health and Wellness
- Visual Arts
- Choir and Band
- Computer Programming
- Robotics
- Spanish I
- Creative Writing
- Environmental Science
Online Learning
Shenandoah Middle School offers a comprehensive online learning program designed to complement traditional classroom instruction. This program enables students to access coursework, assignments, and supplementary materials through a secure digital platform, allowing for greater flexibility in learning. The online system supports interactive lessons, video tutorials, and virtual collaboration with peers and teachers. During periods of inclement weather or other disruptions, the school seamlessly transitions to remote learning, ensuring continuity of education. Additionally, online learning resources provide opportunities for enrichment and remediation tailored to individual student needs, helping to reinforce core concepts at a personalized pace. Teachers regularly monitor student progress through the platform and provide timely feedback to support academic growth.
Degrees and Certifications
As a middle school, Shenandoah offers foundational academic programs that prepare students for high school and beyond, rather than conferring degrees. However, the school facilitates certifications in various areas to enhance student skills and readiness. These include digital literacy certifications, such as keyboarding and basic coding proficiency, and health and safety certifications through physical education programs. The school also encourages students to pursue language proficiency certificates in Spanish. Through partnerships with local organizations, students can access summer workshops and STEM-related certifications that build career readiness. While formal degrees are not awarded at this level, the focus on skill acquisition and subject mastery lays a solid groundwork for future academic and vocational achievements.
Summer School
Shenandoah Middle School offers a structured summer school program aimed at helping students improve core academic skills and recover credits if needed. The program runs for six weeks during the summer months and includes courses in mathematics, English language arts, and science. Designed to be engaging and supportive, summer school provides smaller class sizes and individualized attention to address students’ specific learning gaps. In addition to academic remediation, enrichment activities such as STEM projects, arts workshops, and physical fitness sessions are part of the curriculum to maintain student interest and motivation. The program is open to all students, with priority given to those needing to strengthen foundational skills before advancing to the next grade. Summer school registration typically opens in early May and requires parental approval.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 72% |
| English/Reading | 79% |
| Science | 65% |
| Social Studies | 83% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Shenandoah Middle School maintains a high retention rate, reflecting strong student engagement and satisfaction. Most students successfully complete the middle school program and transition to local high schools with adequate preparation. The school’s emphasis on academic support services, including tutoring and counseling, contributes to minimizing dropout rates and promoting steady progress. Retention efforts are focused on identifying students at risk early and providing tailored interventions to address academic and social challenges. Graduation from middle school is not formally certified; however, the school tracks promotion rates to ensure students meet grade-level expectations. The majority of students graduate on time, with many earning recognition for academic achievement and leadership. The school community works collaboratively to maintain a positive environment conducive to student success.
Shenandoah Middle School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Shenandoah Middle School is open primarily to residents within the school district, as it is a public institution. Therefore, traditional GPA or standardized test score requirements do not apply for general enrollment. However, placement within advanced courses such as Algebra I or Honors English may be influenced by students’ prior academic performance and standardized test results from elementary school assessments. The school uses a holistic approach to evaluate readiness for these programs, considering teacher recommendations and grade reports. While SAT and ACT scores are not applicable at this level, ongoing assessments during the school year help guide academic placement and identify students who may benefit from enrichment or additional support services.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 100% |
| 2022 | 100% |
| 2021 | 100% |
Application Requirements
Because Shenandoah Middle School is a public school serving a defined geographic area, formal application requirements are minimal. Families must provide proof of residency within the school district, including a recent utility bill or lease agreement. Additionally, students must submit immunization records and previous school transcripts or report cards to ensure appropriate grade placement. New students may be asked to participate in a brief orientation or assessment to better understand their academic needs, particularly if transferring from outside the district. Families are encouraged to attend information sessions to become familiar with school programs and policies. While there is no competitive application process, early registration is recommended to secure enrollment and facilitate smooth transitions.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Shenandoah Middle School has remained steady over the past several years, with a diverse student population reflecting the community’s demographics. The school serves approximately 587 students across grades 6 through 8, representing a balanced mix of academic abilities and interests. Enrollment tends to peak in sixth grade as students transition from elementary schools, with the majority continuing through to eighth grade. The school actively monitors enrollment trends to adjust staffing and resource allocation accordingly. Families new to the area often choose Shenandoah for its reputation in academics and extracurricular offerings. The school also supports transfers from neighboring districts when space permits, prioritizing students with siblings already enrolled when possible.
Application Process
- Submit proof of residency documents to the school office
- Provide immunization and health records
- Submit previous school transcripts or report cards
- Attend a new student orientation session (if applicable)
- Complete registration forms available online or in person
- Meet with school counselor for academic placement discussion
- Confirm enrollment and attend welcome events
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | April 1 |
| Application Deadline | June 15 |
| Decision Notification | July 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | July 30 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 10-15 |
Essay Prompt
As part of its enrichment programs, Shenandoah Middle School encourages students to reflect on their personal growth and goals by writing an essay. The prompt invites students to consider a challenge they have faced and describe how they overcame it. Students are asked to explain what they learned from the experience and how it has shaped their approach to learning and relationships with others. This exercise helps build critical thinking and communication skills while fostering self-awareness. Teachers use the essays to understand students’ perspectives and provide tailored support. The school values the development of resilience and empathy, viewing these as essential qualities for academic and social success. This essay also serves as a tool for students to articulate their goals and aspirations for middle school.
Shenandoah Middle School Scholarships
Though Shenandoah Middle School is a public institution and does not charge tuition, it offers several scholarships and financial assistance programs for extracurricular activities and enrichment opportunities. These scholarships are designed to ensure all students can participate fully, regardless of financial background. For example, scholarships may cover costs for band instruments, sports team fees, field trips, or summer camp programs. Applications for these scholarships typically require a brief statement of interest and demonstration of financial need. The school partners with local businesses and community organizations to fund these initiatives. Additionally, merit-based recognition awards are given annually to students who excel academically or demonstrate leadership and community service. These programs foster inclusivity and encourage students to explore diverse interests.
Shenandoah Middle School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $25 |
| Technology Fee | $40 |
| Activity Fee | $75 |
| Books and Supplies | $60 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $150 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Shenandoah Middle School serves a student body reflective of the Winchester community’s diverse population. The school values inclusivity and supports a range of cultural backgrounds, languages, and family structures. Approximately 30% of students come from households where English is not the primary language, and the school offers English language learning programs to support these learners. The school also embraces students with varying academic abilities, including those requiring special education services. Socioeconomic diversity is present, with a mix of lower-, middle-, and upper-income families represented. The school community actively promotes cultural awareness and respect through organized events and classroom discussions. This diversity enriches the educational experience by fostering empathy, collaboration, and global awareness among students.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Shenandoah Middle School is committed to providing equitable educational opportunities for all students, including those from low-income families and those with disabilities. Approximately 18% of the student population qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch programs, and the school offers additional support services such as after-school tutoring, counseling, and access to community resources. For students with disabilities, Shenandoah provides individualized education plans (IEPs) and collaborates with specialized staff to ensure accommodations and modifications are in place to support academic success. The school prides itself on an inclusive culture where students with diverse needs are integrated into regular classrooms whenever appropriate. Professional development for teachers focuses on differentiated instruction and accessibility to enhance learning outcomes for all students.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 48% |
| Male Students | 52% |
| Caucasian | 55% |
| African American | 20% |
| Hispanic | 15% |
| Asian | 7% |
| Other/Multiracial | 3% |
University Diversity
While Shenandoah Middle School is a middle school without direct university affiliations, it emphasizes preparing students for a diverse and global future. The school encourages awareness and appreciation of various cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives through its curriculum and extracurricular activities. This foundation helps students develop the intercultural competence necessary for success in higher education and beyond. Faculty members often collaborate with local universities to provide enrichment opportunities, guest speakers, and STEM workshops, exposing students to a wide range of academic disciplines and career paths. The school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion aligns with broader community values, fostering open-mindedness and respect that will benefit students as they advance to high school and eventually college.
Average Earnings
As a middle school, Shenandoah does not directly track average earnings of its alumni; however, it focuses heavily on academic preparation and career readiness to support long-term economic success. The school’s curriculum incorporates critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills essential for future job markets. Extracurricular programs, such as robotics and computer science, introduce students to STEM fields that traditionally offer higher earning potential. By promoting a strong academic foundation and encouraging exploration of diverse interests, Shenandoah aims to equip students to pursue high school pathways leading to college and career opportunities that enhance earning potential. Guidance counselors also work with families to plan long-term educational goals aligned with labor market trends.
Graduation Rate
Shenandoah Middle School maintains a strong track record of promoting students through each grade level, ensuring they meet the necessary academic benchmarks to graduate from middle school. While formal graduation is not issued at this level, the school tracks promotion rates closely, with over 95% of students successfully moving on to local high schools. Interventions for those at risk of retention include tutoring, mentoring, and individualized learning plans. The school fosters a positive environment that encourages attendance, engagement, and academic achievement, all contributing to high promotion rates. Parent involvement and community support also play key roles in student success. The school celebrates student accomplishments annually, reinforcing motivation and pride in academic and personal growth.
Shenandoah Middle School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Shenandoah Middle School is composed of experienced and dedicated educators committed to student success. Many teachers hold advanced degrees in their subject areas, bringing deep knowledge and passion to the classroom. Staff members participate regularly in professional development to stay current with best practices in education and technology integration. The school employs specialized staff such as counselors, special education coordinators, and instructional coaches to support diverse student needs. Collaboration is encouraged among teachers through grade-level teams and interdisciplinary projects, fostering a cohesive learning environment. Staff turnover is low, reflecting strong job satisfaction and a supportive workplace culture. Overall, the faculty’s commitment to student growth and well-being is a hallmark of the school’s positive reputation.
Faculty Profiles
Several faculty members at Shenandoah Middle School have received recognition for excellence in teaching and community involvement. For example, the science department chair has a master’s degree in education and leads the school’s STEM initiatives, including the robotics club and science fairs. The English department includes published authors who mentor students in creative writing and journalism. Physical education teachers emphasize holistic health, incorporating nutrition and mental wellness into their programs. Special education staff are trained in the latest inclusive teaching strategies and collaborate closely with classroom teachers to meet IEP goals. Many faculty members engage in outreach programs, such as after-school tutoring and summer camps, demonstrating a commitment beyond the classroom. These profiles reflect a diverse and skilled team dedicated to student development in academics and character.
Shenandoah Middle School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Shenandoah Middle School’s campus is situated in a suburban neighborhood, providing a safe and welcoming environment for students. The facility includes modern classrooms, science labs, a library media center, and dedicated spaces for arts and technology. Outdoor areas feature athletic fields, a playground, and picnic spaces for lunch and socializing. While the school does not provide housing, many students live within walking or bus distance, fostering a strong local community connection. Campus life is enriched by a variety of clubs, sports teams, and student government opportunities that encourage leadership and teamwork. Events such as cultural fairs, talent shows, and field days contribute to a vibrant school experience. The campus is designed to support both academic pursuits and social interaction, promoting well-rounded development.
Transportation
Transportation services at Shenandoah Middle School include a comprehensive school bus system covering the district’s geographic area. Routes are designed to ensure timely and safe arrival for students from both urban and rural neighborhoods. The school also accommodates parent drop-off and pick-up with designated zones to maintain traffic flow and student safety. Bicycle racks are available for students who choose to bike to school, and pedestrian safety programs educate students on road awareness. For students with special needs, transportation is coordinated with families to provide appropriate accommodations. The school works closely with local transit authorities to ensure schedules align with school hours. Overall, transportation is managed efficiently to support accessibility for all students.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Shenandoah Middle School periodically offers job openings for certified teachers, support staff, and administrative positions. The school values candidates with strong educational backgrounds, a commitment to student-centered teaching, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Career opportunities include teaching roles across core subjects, special education, counseling, and extracurricular program coordination. Additionally, the school seeks qualified individuals for roles in technology support, library services, and maintenance. Professional growth is encouraged through ongoing training and mentorship programs. Interested applicants can find current openings posted on the school website and are invited to submit applications online. The school’s positive work culture and community focus make it an attractive employer in the region.