Academics
Curriculum
All students follow an accelerated curriculum that meets or exceeds state standards. Our program is designed to challenge students academically while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, problem-solving and real-world application, students are prepared not only for high school success but for lifelong learning. In addition to core subjects, students engage in enriching experiences in the arts, environmental science, world languages and leadership development—ensuring a well-rounded education that supports both academic excellence and personal growth.
Instruction
Teachers use a variety of instructional strategies to actively engage students in their learning, with a focus on collaboration, inquiry and meaningful feedback. To ensure all students thrive, we implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), which provides targeted academic and social-emotional interventions based on individual student needs. This balanced approach allows us to maintain high expectations while offering the support necessary for every student to succeed.
Assessment
Teachers use a variety of formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress, guide instruction and provide timely, meaningful feedback. Assessments are designed to measure both content mastery and higher-order thinking skills, ensuring students are not only meeting academic standards but also developing the ability to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. State testing plays an important role in this process by providing standardized data that helps evaluate overall student achievement and school effectiveness. Through data analysis and regular progress monitoring—including state assessment results—our educators are able to personalize learning, identify areas of need and celebrate growth—creating a learning environment where all students are supported, challenged and empowered to succeed.
Academic Challenge
The Academic Challenge Program offers a rigorous and supportive environment designed to nurture the academic and creative talents of highly motivated students in mathematics and English. Students apply in 7th grade and begin the program in 8th grade.
This five-year program delivers high school-level coursework in math and English at an accelerated pace, allowing students to begin college-level courses in their junior and senior years. In addition to fulfilling high school graduation requirements, students may earn up to 12 college credits in English and 15 college credits in mathematics.
College courses are offered through Delaware Tech and the University of Delaware at the Owens Campus.
For more details, visit: https://www.academicchallengetheflyingcow.com/
Scheduling and Course Information
Sussex Academy Middle School’s schedule is organized around large, flexible blocks of time to maximize learning opportunities. Incoming sixth-grade students are placed on teams and stay with the same group of teachers for at least two years, fostering strong relationships and consistent support.
Our dedicated teachers bring specialized training and expertise in working with middle and high school learners. Middle school teams are responsible for delivering core content in reading, writing, mathematics, social studies and science. High school teams guide students through English language arts, Spanish, STEM, science, social studies, mathematics, and a variety of electives.
In addition to core subjects, students participate in physical education, art, music and other co-curricular courses known as middle school exploratories or high school electives, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
