Gavin Middle School

Gavin Middle School
215 Dorchester Street
South Boston, MA 02127
(617) 635-8817

Alexander Mathews, Principal

Mission: We provide rigorous academic preparation which emphasizes the habits of thoroughness, hard work, persistence, and commitment, and which leads to MCAS proficiency and Latin School readiness.

We have worked hard over the last few years to build an environment of high achievement at the Gavin. Students know we are a community of learners whose central focus is the culture of reading. Currently, we are involved in an investigation of middle school student reading habits, reading goals and reading strengths. We use this information to help students build their fluency, accuracy and stamina. Reading strategies are taught in all content areas.

Students are constantly encouraged to master our challenging curriculum, move through middle school and on to their choice of high school. We sponsor a high school fair, bring in speakers and take several college trips to help make the future real for students. We are also in the process of creating a research and media center where students can gain the skills they need to effectively gather and analyze information.

At the Gavin Middle School we recognize the importance of the beginning adolescent years. We provide a variety of services such as counseling, speech, character development and Outward Bound adventures. Over one-third of our students are enrolled in special education including exemplary multi-handicapped and prevocational programs.

Another fourth of our students participate in Citizen Schools where they complete homework, learn organizational skills and participate in apprenticeships like conflict resolution or CD production. In 8th grade they work with a lawyer on persuasive writing and take college trips.

As of June 2008, the racial breakdown was as follows: 8.3% Asian, 46.7% Black, 28.0% Hispanic, 15.2% White, and 0.9% Native American, and 0.9% Multi-Race, Non-Hispanic. Special education services were provided to 33.5% of students. (From Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education)

(Adapted from the BPS School Profile: http://boston.k12.ma.us/schools/RC525.pdf)