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Academics

Bettendorf Middle School teachers work with students to help them reach their potential.

BMS Honors Program

More academic information is available in the MS Parent/Student Handbook

Schedule & Bulldog Block

Sample Schedule with Bulldog Block

Schedule: Bettendorf Middle School follows a block schedule. The decision to move to a block schedule was initiated by the students of BMS and was overwhelmingly supported by both the student body and the staff. Students and staff found that it was difficult to do rigorous learning activities in 42 minutes and expressed frustration with having their learning interrupted because of the limited time. With input from students and staff, we were able to create a block schedule that will alternate every other day and will provide students with 5 classes each day. Students have 85 minutes in their core area subjects (language arts, math, science and social studies) and 41 minutes in their elective courses.

Bulldog Block: With the block schedule, we are able to carve out additional instructional time due to the reduced travel time from class to class. Bulldog Block courses meet every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 12:56-1:27. Bulldog Block is an enrichment opportunity for all students and will focus on the development of specific academic and 21st century skills. During 1st semester, all Bulldog Block classes focus on developing student’s collaboration skills and their ability to read and comprehend increasingly complex informational texts. The classes are developed based on interests of students and students were given the opportunity to select the courses that most interested them. Assessment results are shared with students and families through our Infinite Campus system. Providing our students with rigorous, hands-on learning opportunities is our focus and we welcome the assistance of our parents and families. If interested in assisting or volunteering in our Bulldog Block classes, please contact Alan Hartley at (563) 359-3686 ext. 5000.

Grading Guidelines

Bettendorf Middle School teachers expect students to work to their fullest potential. Using established guidelines, house teachers gauge a student’s academic progress and the effort expended on individual studies throughout the year. This progress is recorded quarterly in the form of a report card, which is mailed home or sent home with the students. In addition, the Parent Portal in Infinite Campus provides 24-hour access to student grades and assignments.

Teachers create a portfolio of student work that may include standardized test scores, written assignments, artwork, etc. It will be shared with parents during student-led parent-teacher conference time to provide an alternative method of assessment.

The house teachers use several factors to determine academic grades. These may include such factors as test scores, oral participation, completion and quality of assignments, higher-level thinking, and participation according to individual ability. The academic grade is based on the standard scale of 100 percent, 90 percent, 80 percent, 70 percent, 60 percent, etc., where appropriate.

Academics & Courses

  • Art
  • Career Basics
  • Career Pathways
  • Digital Literacy
  • Gifted & Talented
  • Guidance & Counseling
  • Extended Learning Program (ELP)
  • Health Class
  • Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Media Center
  • Music - Instrumental & Vocal
  • Personal Finance
  • Physical Education
  • Practical Living Skills
  • Robotics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Special Education
  • World Language

Girls in vocal music class