Student Background and School Demographics
Science instruction for 6th and 7th graders at Stanton Middle School in Wilmington, DE, is delivered with an emphasis on student engagement and real-world relevance. As of September 30, 2024, Stanton serves a significantly diverse population of 558 students in grades 6 through 8. The school has a minority enrollment of 83%, with a demographic breakdown of approximately 60.7% Hispanic/Latino, 18.8% Black or African American, and 17.4% white students. The remaining student population includes a small percentage of Asian, Pacific Islander, and multiracial students. The school’s student-teacher ratio is 15:1.1
While many of the students are bright, creative, and curious, the Delaware Report Card academic data shows that the school still has a lot to do, as proficiency in both reading and math remains a major challenge for the institution. Only 9.06% of students at Stanton Middle scored at or above the proficient level for math, 21.02% of the students were proficient in English Language Arts (ELA), and 17% for reading, well below the district averages.2 Language barriers, socio-economic factors, and limited access to outside academic resources contribute to the academic struggles that many students face. Despite this, they demonstrate strength in verbal expression, social awareness, and a desire for interactive, hands-on learning experiences.
These realities deeply influence the content and structure of my curriculum. Hence, this unit will incorporate visuals, experiments, cooperative learning, and culturally responsive examples to meet students where they are academically. Since the content focuses on health and body systems, an area that students can naturally relate to, it is well-positioned to foster high engagement. Students will explore how their behaviors, home environments, and community health practices all contribute to disease prevention.
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