The transition to a junior high school model involves shifting from a team-based middle school structure to a departmentalized system, similar to the approach at Cherry Hill East and Cherry Hill West high schools. The adjustment is expected to have minimal impact on students’ day-to-day experiences, as core educational philosophies and opportunities will remain intact. Key elements such as best practice instruction, a nurturing environment, and extracurricular activities will continue to be prioritized.

To address concerns about large class sizes, particularly at Rosa International Middle School, the new model will introduce a cap of 26 students per class. This change aims to alleviate overcrowding and enhance the learning environment. The district will implement a new scheduling framework that retains core academic subjects while replacing advisory periods with a “What I Need” (WIN) period at the end of the day. This period will offer students opportunities for enrichment, academic support, and participation in arts and sports without sacrificing instructional time.

The district assures that services for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) will remain unchanged. The scheduling process will continue to prioritize these students’ needs. Parent-teacher conferences will experience slight modifications, with school counselors maintaining their role as the primary contact for families.