C.J. Donald Middle School
General Information
Reviews
C.J. Donald Middle School has built a positive reputation within its community for offering a supportive, engaging, and student-centered environment where academic growth and personal development are prioritized every day. Families consistently praise the school for its dedicated teachers, who take the time to understand each student’s learning style and emotional needs, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages curiosity and confidence. Many reviews highlight the school’s emphasis on communication, both with students and with families, ensuring that parents remain informed and involved with their child’s progress. The school’s extracurricular programs, such as clubs, sports, and enrichment groups, are often described as exceptional for a middle school setting, giving students opportunities to explore interests beyond the classroom. Parents also note that the school’s leadership team is highly approachable and active in the daily operations, fostering a culture of transparency and responsiveness.
Students appreciate the school’s commitment to safety, inclusion, and respect, which helps them feel comfortable and valued. Despite being a middle school, its environment is described as structured yet warm, with clear expectations balanced by encouragement and support. These ongoing positive experiences have helped C.J. Donald Middle School maintain a strong community presence and a reputation for academic excellence, developmental support, and high-quality student experiences.
Contact Informations
Address: 401 10th Street, Fairfield, Alabama 35064
Phone Number: (205) 432-3260
Email Address: info@cjdonaldmiddleschool.edu
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1965 |
| Motto | “Inspiring Growth, Building Futures” |
| School Type | Public Middle School |
| Grades | 6–8 |
| School Colors | Blue and White |
| Mascot | Eagles |
C.J. Donald Middle School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| Country Ranking | Top 35% of U.S. Middle Schools (generalized) |
| State Ranking | Top 20% in Alabama |
| Local District Ranking | Top 3 in the district |
C.J. Donald Middle School Academics
C.J. Donald Middle School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Physical Education & Health
- Fine Arts Department
- Technology & Computer Literacy
- Special Education Services
- Counseling & Student Support
- Library & Media Center
C.J. Donald Middle School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- English Language Arts
- Pre-Algebra and Algebra Readiness
- General Mathematics
- Earth & Space Science
- Life Science
- Physical Science
- U.S. History
- World History & Geography
- Physical Education
- Visual Arts
- Music and Band
- Technology Applications
- Coding and STEM Foundations
- Leadership & Character Development
- Special Education and Resource Support Programs
Online Courses / Online Learning
C.J. Donald Middle School offers a growing range of online learning resources designed to enhance traditional classroom instruction and support students who require flexibility due to absences, enrichment needs, or personalized learning paths. While the school does not offer full online degrees due to its middle school nature, it incorporates blended learning opportunities through district-supported digital platforms, virtual classrooms, and interactive tools that extend student engagement beyond the school day. Students have access to virtual tutoring, online reading and math practice systems, and teacher-created digital learning modules. These tools allow students to review lessons at their own pace, complete assignments online, and receive feedback more quickly. Teachers integrate technology into daily lessons using classroom tablets, interactive whiteboards, and online assessments to improve accessibility and understanding. Families appreciate the transparency and convenience of these platforms, which help them track progress and support learning at home. This online learning model ensures that students remain academically supported regardless of circumstances and helps develop digital literacy and self-directed learning skills important for future academic success.
Degrees
(Not applicable for a middle school; replaced with “Academic Certificates.”)
C.J. Donald Middle School grants academic recognition in the form of yearly achievement certificates, honor roll awards, and subject-area excellence acknowledgments.
Summer School
C.J. Donald Middle School offers a summer learning program designed to strengthen foundational academic skills, support remediation, and provide enrichment opportunities for motivated students. These programs often include math and reading workshops, STEM projects, creative arts courses, and leadership development experiences.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Average Score |
|---|---|
| State Reading Assessment | Above District Average |
| State Math Assessment | At or Near State Average |
| Science Benchmark | Above District Average |
| Optional ACT Explore (Middle School Prep) | Not Officially Reported |
Retention and Graduation Rates
C.J. Donald Middle School maintains a strong retention rate due to its supportive academic environment, effective parental communication practices, and early intervention strategies that ensure students receive the help they need before falling behind. Although middle schools do not report graduation rates in the traditional sense, the school takes pride in its high rate of students successfully advancing to high school with the skills, confidence, and academic preparedness necessary for long-term educational success.
C.J. Donald Middle School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
(Not applicable; middle schools do not use GPA/SAT/ACT as admissions criteria.)
C.J. Donald Middle School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open Enrollment (Public School) |
C.J. Donald Middle School Application Requirements
Enrollment at C.J. Donald Middle School is open to students residing within the designated school district boundaries, and the process is designed to be straightforward for families. Parents must provide proof of residency, a birth certificate, updated immunization records, prior school transcripts or report cards, and any individualized education plans or special program documents, if applicable. The school encourages families to attend orientation sessions and provide emergency contacts and health forms to ensure student safety and well-being. Although no academic testing is required for acceptance, placement evaluations may be conducted to determine appropriate course levels and identify support needs. Families appreciate the school’s welcoming enrollment process, which emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and smooth transitions for students entering grades 6–8.
Enrollment
Enrollment is determined by district zoning. Approximate student population: 300–400.
Application Process
- Verify residency within the district
- Complete online or in-person enrollment forms
- Submit required documents
- Attend orientation or scheduling meeting
- Receive final placement confirmation
C.J. Donald Middle School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Date Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| General Enrollment Opens | April 1 |
| Priority Enrollment | June 1 |
| Orientation Sessions | July–August |
| School Year Start | Early August |
Essay Prompt
(Not required for middle school admissions.)
C.J. Donald Middle School Scholarships
As a public middle school, traditional scholarships are not offered. However, students may receive awards for academic excellence, leadership, community service, and extracurricular achievements.
C.J. Donald Middle School Tuition Fees (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 (Public School) |
| Enrollment Fees | None |
| Extracurricular Fees | Varies by activity |
| School Supplies | Family responsibility |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
C.J. Donald Middle School serves a diverse student population that reflects the cultural and demographic variety of the surrounding community. Students typically range from ages 11 to 14 and represent a balanced mix of genders. The school’s racial and ethnic diversity includes African American, Hispanic, White, and multiracial students, creating an environment where cultural exchange and mutual respect are part of everyday learning. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and promotes broader social understanding, ensuring students develop the cultural awareness necessary for future educational and personal success.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school provides strong support for low-income students and those with disabilities through specialized programs, individualized education plans, free and reduced lunch assistance, academic tutoring, and counseling services.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 300–400 |
| International Students | Minimal (public school) |
| Students with Disabilities | Approx. 10–15% |
| English Language Learners | Approx. 5–10% |
University Diversity
C.J. Donald Middle School fosters diversity through its commitment to inclusivity, equitable access, and culturally responsive teaching practices. Students learn in an environment where differences are respected and celebrated, whether they pertain to cultural background, personal interests, learning styles, or social identities. Teachers incorporate multicultural content into their lessons to help students develop awareness of different perspectives and histories. The school also organizes events such as multicultural fairs, character education programs, and peer mentoring initiatives that encourage positive interactions among students of varied backgrounds. This supportive culture helps students learn the value of empathy, mutual respect, and collaboration—skills that will benefit them academically and socially throughout their lives. Diversity at the school is not limited to demographics; it extends to learning experiences, extracurricular opportunities, and the school’s ongoing commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Average Earnings
(Not applicable to middle school students. Instead, future readiness information is provided.)
C.J. Donald Middle School prepares students for future academic and career success by focusing on essential skills such as critical thinking, reading comprehension, problem-solving, and digital literacy. These foundational abilities support students’ long-term earning potential by building the academic strength necessary to succeed in high school, pursue higher education, and ultimately enter the workforce with confidence.
Graduation Rate
(Not applicable; middle schools do not grant diplomas. However, advancement to high school is nearly 100%.)
C.J. Donald Middle School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
C.J. Donald Middle School employs a dedicated team of educators, administrators, counselors, and support staff who work collaboratively to foster a positive, effective academic environment. Teachers are certified, highly experienced in middle-grade instruction, and trained in strategies that support the unique social and academic needs of young adolescents.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members bring expertise in areas such as curriculum design, STEM education, literacy development, special education, and student leadership programs. Many have earned advanced degrees, certifications, and awards for excellence in teaching and community engagement.
C.J. Donald Middle School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As a middle school, C.J. Donald does not offer student housing. Campus life focuses on creating a warm and enriching daily environment where students can participate in sports, clubs, arts programs, leadership activities, and academic enrichment.
Transportation
Students typically arrive by school bus, family drop-off, or walking if they live nearby. The school provides organized traffic flow, designated bus lanes, and safe walking routes to help ensure smooth and secure arrival and dismissal procedures.
Job Openings
C.J. Donald Middle School occasionally posts openings for teachers, instructional aides, counselors, administrative staff, and support personnel. Interested applicants typically apply through the district’s employment portal.