Oldfield Middle School
After the successful completion of grade 5, students move to the Oldfield Middle School for grades 6 through 8. The Oldfield Middle School is a child-centered transitional educational program between the elementary grade and high school academic program. This well-equipped school recognizes that early adolescence is a unique period in a child's life, a time when a youngster experiences major changes in physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth. To that end, students are actively involved in the learning process through diversified instructional strategies. An emphasis on interdisciplinary instructional teams and cooperative homerooms fosters a sense of identification and belonging for the learners. Outstanding computer programs, such as the technology lab, and an integrated art/technology program, are typical of the emphasis on computer education in the middle school. Upon entering the school, it is easy to determine why this facility has been recognized as an outstanding middle school. This well-maintained building, with its superior library-media center, professionally equipped science labs, and a state-of-the-art computer and technology center, offers students specialized environments for learning. The orderly and friendly atmosphere that is created by the staff provides a positive, safe, and secure environment which fosters not only optimal learning, but also creates a schoolwide atmosphere of cooperation and caring. The program has been designed to meet the unique needs of 11- to 14-year-old learners who are given increased work and homework responsibilities. On the other hand, they have greater flexibility in their pursuit of interests and learning through a host of co-curricular activities, clubs, school government, and sports. Interscholastic athletics in grades 7 and 8 introduce students to athletic competitions with other schools in the area. A district director of athletics and a staff of trained coaches keep competition at a healthy level so that the focus remains on skill development. The Harborfields sports program is outstanding, offering over twenty-five sports in all four seasons for girls and boys.
The instructional schedule includes science, math, social studies, Spanish, Italian, or French, English, technology education, family and consumer science, health, music, art, study skills, and physical education. This well-defined curriculum plus high-quality instruction and positive expectations for students translate into superior student performance on state and nationally standardized tests. The New York State Education Department has also recognized Oldfield's innovative program in the language arts, and in 2002 Oldfield Middle School was recognized by the Character Education Partnership for its unique and all-encompassing character education programs.
Oldfield Middle School is a special environment with its emphasis on academic achievement and its concern for the development of positive self-esteem, responsible citizenship, and a zest for learning. The middle school believes in recognizing its students' achievements and accomplishments. The faculty constantly identifies and encourages students to fully utilize their abilities.