Welcome
Our English Department at Van Nuys Middle School is centered around a growth mindset approach to teaching & learning. The VNMS ELA Department embraces the philosophy of Equitable Grading & Instruction, which is more supportive, specialized, and student-centered compared to traditional percentage-based weighted grading. It is critical for students to understand that mistakes facilitate the learning process, and it’s important to always persevere to achieve optimal results. Our students are offered multiple means and opportunities to master Learning Targets & develop ELA Standard Proficiencies. All instruction and feedback are targeted, actionable, and supportive of students' growth. Academic grades are calculated based on the body of evidence and most recent performances within our ELA Learning Targets, and a holistic analysis and calculation of combined Learning Target scores as a whole(not averaged) will determine students' final grades in our courses.