Math and Science Specialty Program
The PWCS Middle School Math and Science programs offer an intensive study in mathematics and science to challenge and motivate students while developing their critical thinking skills through discovery and exploration. These programs provide students with the opportunity to become engaged in an intensive program of study in mathematics and science. The programs have been planned to challenge and motivate students while developing their critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning, discovery, and exploration.
Program Features
- Enriching STEM learning in the Science Enrichment class.
Application Information
Who can apply?
Applications for this program are open for rising 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students.
When to apply?
Specialty program applications will be accepted November 1, 2024 - February 1, 2025.
How to apply?
Visit the Specialty Programs Application Process website to learn more about the application process.
Contact Information
Carmela Bertrand
[email protected]
703-491-2171
Sharon Bicey
[email protected]
703-491-2171
Attendance Areas
Fred Lynn MS, Lake Ridge MS, Potomac MS, Potomac Shores MS, Rippon MS, and Woodbridge MS
School-Based Information Sessions
2024-25 school-based information session dates to be determined.
RPMS Math and Science Program Highlights
What to Expect as a Sixth Grader
All accepted 6th grade Math and Science students are placed in either Math 6 Extended or Math 7 Extended.
- Math 6 extended (Accelerated Pathway - Algebra sequence) is a compacted curriculum in which all of the sixth grade math objectives and 1/2 of the seventh grade objectives will be taught in one year. Students in this course will take the Math 6 SOL test in the spring. Upon successful completion, they will be enrolled into Math 7 extended in 7th grade and Algebra I in 8th grade. (Algebra I is a high school credit course!)
- Math 7 extended (Promoted Pathway - Geometry sequence) is a compact course which moves very quickly. Students in this class will complete sixth, seventh, and eighth grade math in one year and take the Math 8 SOL test in the spring. Upon successful completion, the student will take Algebra I in 7th grade, and Geometry in 8th grade. (Both Algebra I and Geometry are high school credit courses!)
All Math and Science program students will be enrolled in Science Enrichment. This course is specifically created for our Math and Science program students to enhance the current Science curriculum.
Program Requirements
Upon acceptance into the program, each student will sign a contract that will be maintained for three years.
All students in the Mathematics and Science Program must:
- Earn a minimum score of a "B" in Extended Math class and Science Enrichment class.
- Earn a minimum score of a "C" in all Language Arts, Social Studies, and Elective classes.
- Earn a minimum of Satisfactory in Conduct in each class.
- Earn a minimum of Satisfactory in Work Habits in each class.
- Must earn a score of 440 or higher on the Math SOL, 400 or higher on the Reading SOL, and the appropriate end of the year exam score in Science and Social Studies.
- All students must participate in the Science Symposium.
Failure to meet these standards will result in probation. Uncorrected problems may result in dismissal from the program. Transfer students removed from the program must go back to their base school the next school year.