In 1988 - 89, Richland School district One initiated the Middle School Scholars (MSS) program. This program was designed to encourage and reward academic excellence among Advanced Academic Program (AAP) students in grades 6 - 8. Through MSS, students must not only excel within the regular school day, but also actively participate in extracurricular activities with an academic basis. High School Scholars, begun in 1983 - 84, was the model for MSS.

Eligibility

Any rising 6th, 7th, or 8th grade AAP student who has the ability and desire for excellence in academics and to contribute meaningfully to the school and community may apply.

Requirements
Three or more AAP courses must be taken each academic year.

One course each year must be AAP ELA.

An overall 3.4 grade point ration in AAP courses must be maintained. Grade point ratio is computed on a four-point scale with an "A" counting four points. No grade below "C" will be accepted in non-AAP courses.

Two points for extra curricular activities must be earned each year. Extracurricular activities are those that are not required by the school but have an educational basis. All activities are based upon active participation and regular attendance.

Extracurricular Point System

If students would like to participate in activities that are not included in the point system, they may present a proposal to the in-school MSS points committee for a determination as to whether these activities should be included in the system.

In-school Points
One point each-
Team sport
Academic competition
Band/chorus/orchestra member
Club or council member
Annual, newspaper, literary magazine staff
Cheerleader
Student government officer

Fine Arts Points
One-half point each-
Attendance at Fine Arts performances, including plays, concerts, and art exhibits.
Following the performance a thorough critique, with an attached playbill and verification signature, must be completed.

One-point-
Voice, drama, instrumental lessons, orchestra or choir participation
Theater production

Community Service Points
One-half point-
Community sports team
Community service volunteer
(minimum of 10 hours)
Walk-a-Thon/Read-a-Thon

To receive points for any extracurricular activity, a verification letter must be completed.

Application Procedure

Students may apply for the program through their school’s guidance office.

Students who transfer must provide official proof they have taken courses comparable to the AAP courses in the program. Such students will be considered on an individual basis.

Students who meet these requirements are eligible to participate in the program.

Awards and Recognition

At the end of the 8th grade, students will receive plaques designating them as Richland County School District One Middle School Scholars. They also will be honored at a recognition ceremony.

Active program participants who have an overall 3.4 or higher grade point ratio in AAP courses, have no grade below a “C” in non-AAP courses and have two extracurricular points for the year will receive an award at the end of each academic year.

Students will receive school and district-level publicity, as well as community publicity, for their achievements.

Advanced Academic Programs
Phone: 803-231-6836 Fax: 803-231-6838
E-mail: dhammett@richlandone.org