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Promotion to Next Grade

Promotion to Next Grade

School Promotion

C. Promotion from the Eighth Grade

Students shall be promoted from eighth grade after demonstrating competency as defined by academic standards adopted by the Arizona State Board of Education in the following subject areas:

  1. English Language Arts
  2. Mathematics
  3. Science
  4. Social Studies; including:
    1. Civics; and
    2. Instruction on the Holocaust and other genocides at least once in the seventh grade or the eighth grade
  5. Two or more electives, including, but not limited to:
    1. Visual Arts
    2. Dance
    3. Theatre
    4. Music
    5. Media Arts
    6. Health/Physical Education

Note: This no longer applies to "passing" or "demonstrating proficiency" at all three grade levels, only eighth grade. Also, the language does not say passing classes, but "demonstrating competency. "Admittedly, this is language that is open to a lot of interpretation. An interpretation would be that if we have evidence that a student has shown proficiency on all essential learning outcomes (or essential standards), then they have earned promotion. 

Promotion & Retention of Students

Promotion and Retention of Students; Passing Grades (5-216, 5216.A)

The Superintendent shall ensure that students are promoted from one grade to another after meeting minimum competency requirements as defined by the Arizona State Board of Education, together with other requirements adopted by the Governing Board. A student shall earn academic credit in a course if the student receives a grade of D (2 at MEMS) or better. Teachers shall assign grades based on the student's demonstration of competency in the subject area through tests, papers, projects, and other coursework as determined by the teacher. Competency standards shall be based on standards adopted by the Arizona State Board of Education or the Governing Board. Students shall have regular opportunities to review their progress through progress reports and other teacher feedback. Teachers shall notify students and their parents/legal guardians if the teacher determines that the student is not making satisfactory progress toward a passing grade.

Staying on Track for Promotion

We encourage you to assist your student in staying on track for a successful promotion to high school. To support your efforts, we have compiled some essential information and tips to ensure your student does not fall behind in their academic journey.

1. **Communication is Key**: Maintain open lines of communication with your student’s teachers. Regular updates on academic progress can help identify areas that may need additional support.

2. **Create a Routine**: Establishing a consistent daily routine for homework and study sessions can foster good habits and discipline in your student.

3. **Utilize Resources**: Take advantage of school resources, such as tutoring. These can provide additional support for your student. We offer help during lunch for students who need assistance with homework. Students just need to get a pass from their teacher during lunch to receive the help they need or to catch up on their work.

4. **Set Goals Together**: Work with your student to set achievable academic goals. This can motivate them to strive for success and encourage regular attendance. It is important for them to be present every day and arrive on time for learning. Keep track of their grades; striving for a grade point average of 3 or better is essential. Additionally, ensure that school fees are paid promptly to avoid any interruptions to their education. If your student is on the Honor Roll, continue to support them to maintain this achievement.

    1. School begins at 9:00 AM. Students should be on campus before 8:40 AM. School doors open at 8:30 AM and students can wait in the proposed areas until the bell rings. Your student is considered tardy at 9:01 AM.
    2. Arizona Revised State Statues 15-803 (B): Absences maybe considered excessive when the number of absents days exceeds 10% of the number of days REQUIRED attendance days.
    3. At MEMS, we have 180 days of required attendance. If your student will be absent, please call the ATTENDANCE LINE AT (928)773-8261. Leave your student’s name, reason for absence/tardy, your phone number and your name.

    1. Check grades every Monday morning on StudentVue &/ or ParentVue.
    2. Tutoring is no longer available after school but is provided by individual teachers during student’s lunch time if students request it.
    3. Students should stive for 3s and 4s. If students have a 1 or a 2, we may require an academic meeting to get a plan for your student. Please make sure students are using their resources (academic success classes, off-site tutoring etc.) wisely.

    1. Students have school fees every year. Please communicate with Ms. Gutzwiller at (928)773-8262 regarding your student’s ledge account.
    2. We accept cash, money orders, and checks. Please request a receipt and keep with your records.
    3. We also have a payment plan available. Again, contact Ms. Gutzwiller to set that up.
    4. Please make sure our student’s account is at a zero balance by May 1,2026.

    1. 3s and 4s are recognized as Honors grades by the NAES program. No 2s or 1s will be accepted.
    2. The NAESP will have a higher standard for Honors and students with 3s and 4s throughout the year will be recognized and celebrate at the end of the year NAESP Honors Ceremony.

  • Check your ParentVue/StudentVue weekly for grades. Please make an contact out MEMS Data Clerk to help you access your account, if you need help.

  • This is our main communication platform for teachers to contact you. Teachers will not be able to do text message this year.

Thank you for your commitment to your student's education. Together, we can ensure they thrive as they transition to high school.