
OUR PHILOSOPHY ON SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS
Madison's student-centered "school-in-the-middle" approach to learning means that we are committed to meeting the unique needs of the students in transition. In addition to providing a challenging academic environment, students need to be encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their own behavior and learning that includes participation in a broad program of special activities.
At Madison we offer lots of opportunities for students to become actively involved in school life, such as: Student Council, athletics, newspaper, yearbook, clubs and other special school programs.
Madison holds three or more activity nights during the year. Students are invited to participate in a wide variety of activities. Additional activity nights may be scheduled as necessary or requested by parent sponsoring groups
Assemblies are usually an outgrowth of the instruction program and
are planned by students and faculty. Whenever possible, student talent is
utilized. The Student Council also sponsors assemblies annually.
Track
Students planning to participate in Track at Madison should be aware that they will be required to have completed physical examination forms signed by a medical doctor on file in the school office prior to participation in, or practice of any sport. Formerly, only one exam was necessary for all the years of Middle School and a physical after May 15 was acceptable the following year. A change in legislation requires all students, grades 7- 12, to have physicals every two years to participate in interscholastic sports. This means that our 8th graders will need a 2nd physical if they have not had one in the past two years or if they have one that will expire during Track season.
There is an athletic participation fee of $50. If there is a financial concern, there are some scholarships available. However, we do ask that parents requesting scholarships, plan on helping out at track meets if at all possible. Scholarships should be requested before practices start.
Soccer, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, and Baseball
Kidsports and the YMCA also provide an opportunity for students to participate in some after-school sports. These include soccer and football in the fall, volleyball and basketball in the winter, and softball and baseball in the spring and summer.
Pride in Print is a monthly newspaper / newsletter, and published by the students. It is distributed free of charge to Madison students. Parents, as well as students, will find Pride in Print to be a handy source of news about Madison Middle School.
Performing Music
The music department groups (bands, orchestra) perform at assemblies during the school year, for parents during periodic evening concerts, for various community activities (hospitals, parades, clubs and church groups), for elementary schools, and for the annual music festival. Students registering for any of the music classes will be expected to participate in these performances.
Talented and Gifted Program
If you are not currently identified as a T.A.G. student by the 4J School District, or if you or your parent think you may qualify for T.A.G., please contact the school counselor at 687-4300 and fill out a Parent Request T.A.G. Referral form. Madison staff will also be making T.A.G. referrals.
Learning Center
Specific academic skills are a lot like building blocks. You can't construct a secure building if there are gaps in the foundation, and you can't learn more advanced academic skills until the basics are mastered. Many students, for many different reasons, have gaps in their knowledge of specific skills and need extra help to fill in those gaps. Students are tested prior to entering the program to determine the skill areas in which they need extra instruction and practice. We endeavor to tailor the student's schedule to place him/her in classes where extra help can be provided to aid the student in gaining academic success.
Student Leadership meets once a week at TBA. Leadership provides students with first hand experience in self-government to the extent that it is possible in middle school. All students may attend and participate in Student Leadership meetings - students do not have to be a selected representative. Student Leadership assists in planning and carrying out social as well as community and school activities or projects. In the past, student government has sponsored activities such as the magazine drive, ski trip, curriculum improvement, and school-wide assemblies. The opportunity to attend the Oregon Association of Student Council’s summer camp is also sometimes made available.

The goal of the Madison Middle School activity program is to provide every student with an activity of interest.
It provides:
1. A wide range of social and physical needs and interests.
2. The possibility for success in the building of self-confidence.
3. Life recreation opportunities.
4. Positive peer interaction.
5. Different interactions with adults.
5. Creative expression.