These are a few frequently asked questions.
The Marshall Alternative Program is one of the more unique teams at Marshall Middle School. Like other Marshall teams here, MAP is comprised of two teachers (Crystal and Brett) and between fifty and sixty students. Unlike other teams, MAP is a multi-age program. Students come to MAP as sixth graders and generally stay for three years. MAP also draws from throughout the Olympia District. Parents and Students apply to enter MAP. It is not a "gifted" or "at-risk" program, but rather seeks diversity in student population. It is a parent-involved program. This means that for students to be accepted into the program, parents must agree to help in some way with the learning community. Because of this parent help, MAP students have some opportunities that are not found on some other teams. We tend to have more "off-campus" learning opportunities. These include field trips and a 3- day field school each spring. We also have periodic mini-courses that are short learning opportunities provide by parents for small groups of students. Our three year rotating curriculum covers the same learning objectives as other Olympia middle schools, but not necessarily in the same order. MAP students and teachers are also proud to be part of MMS. Our students take part in music programs, sports, ASB Council and other general school activities. If you have interest in knowing more about the Marshall Alternative Program, feel free to talk with students or teachers, Brett and Crystal. There will also be two parent orientation nights in the early Spring. These are scheduled for March 20 and March 25. Each begins at 7:00 in the M.A.P. classroom.Back to Top
M.A.P. students cover basic middle school curriculum, but it is arranged in a 3-year cycle, so there is minimal overlap during a student's middle school career. Students are encouraged to examine personal learning styles and take advantage of stronger areas while building on others. Much of the learning is experiential in nature and many units of study are designed to integrate curriculum areas.Back to Top
What are Mini Courses and when do you do them?
Mini-Courses are classes led by parents (or occasionally, students). Courses are in areas not generally covered in the basic curriculum. They are taught in 2 hour blocks on Fridays periodically throughout the year. Persons interested in offering a mini-course should contact parent, Kathy Pruitt.Back to Top