2025-26 Middle School Course Catalog
Columbia Elementary School remains deeply committed to supporting the diverse needs and interests of its students, especially through its evolving middle school program. After a successful 2024–25 school year filled with exploration and new elective offerings, the school is building on that momentum with a more structured and expansive course catalog for 2025–26. The updated catalog introduces clearly defined pathways aligned with student interests and long-term goals, while continuing to emphasize creativity, academic rigor, and personal growth.
Students will now choose from electives organized into three areas: Fine Arts, Student Interests, and The Opportunity Hub, a new co-taught, blended learning space. Each course includes scheduling and prerequisite information to help families plan effectively. While students are encouraged to share their preferences, course availability and other factors may affect final placement. All electives are graded and count toward middle school promotion requirements. With the addition of a full-time Physical Education teacher and continued community support, Columbia looks forward to another exciting year of learning and discovery.
You can access the catalog here.
Middle School Electives
Students and their families are encouraged to review the updated course catalog and select their preferred electives for the 2025–26 school year. Elective choices should reflect the student’s interests, goals, and readiness for the coursework. Once selections have been made, please complete and return the registration form by June 4, 2025.
Timely submission helps ensure the best possible scheduling and course availability for all students.
Paper copies will be given to all students in Grades 5-7, but you can access the form here as well.
Middle School Acceleration Criteria
The middle school acceleration program at Columbia Union School District is designed to meet the academic and developmental needs of high-achieving students in Grades 6–8. Through enriched, honors-level instruction in core subjects (English Language Arts, Math, and Science), students will engage with rigorous content that promotes critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and advanced skill development. The program also includes opportunities to take high school courses, such as Math I and Spanish I, helping students build a strong foundation for future academic success.
Eligibility for the program is determined through a multi-criteria system, including standardized test scores (CAASPP and STAR), academic performance, learning behaviors, and attendance. Once enrolled, students are expected to maintain a “B” average and complete at least 90% of their assignments. Ongoing monitoring ensures students receive the support they need, and those facing challenges may be placed on a structured improvement plan. If necessary, a transition back to the standard curriculum will be carefully managed.
You can access the acceleration criteria and options here.
Qualifying students will be notified by the end of this school year. While options are only available to the Eighth Grade, the district will be exploring extending similar opportunities to other grade levels from one school year to the next.