Is Corporate Landing Middle School the Right Choice for Your Child?
Choosing the right middle school for your child can feel overwhelming. With so many factors to consider—academics, extracurriculars, teacher support, and school culture—it’s important to dig deeper into what makes a school stand out. Corporate Landing Middle School (CLMS) in Virginia Beach, Virginia, often comes up in local discussions about quality education. But how does it truly measure up? Let’s explore what this school offers and whether it aligns with your family’s priorities.
Academic Programs: Rigor and Support
CLMS prides itself on balancing academic rigor with personalized learning. The school follows the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL), ensuring students meet state benchmarks in core subjects like math, science, English, and history. However, what sets CLMS apart is its focus on differentiated instruction. Teachers are trained to adapt lessons to meet students’ varying skill levels, which is especially helpful in middle school, where kids often develop at different paces.
For advanced learners, the school offers honors courses in math and English. These classes encourage critical thinking through project-based assignments and collaborative discussions. Additionally, CLMS partners with nearby high schools to provide eligible eighth graders access to Algebra I and Geometry credits, giving students a head start on their high school transcripts.
One standout program is the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Academy. Students in this track engage in hands-on learning, from coding robots to designing sustainable city models. Parents praise the program for sparking curiosity and preparing kids for future tech careers.
Extracurriculars: Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Middle school isn’t just about academics—it’s a time for kids to explore their passions. CLMS offers a wide range of clubs and sports, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Popular options include:
– Robotics Club: A favorite among STEM enthusiasts, this club competes in regional competitions.
– Drama Club: Students produce a yearly musical, gaining confidence and teamwork skills.
– Community Service Group: This club organizes food drives and volunteer projects, teaching empathy and leadership.
Athletics are also a big draw. CLMS fields teams in basketball, soccer, track, and volleyball. Coaches emphasize skill development and sportsmanship over winning, which parents appreciate. “My son learned resilience through losing a tough game,” one parent shared. “It was a life lesson he wouldn’t have gotten in a classroom.”
Teacher and Student Relationships
A school’s culture hinges on the connections between staff and students. At CLMS, teachers are described as “approachable” and “invested.” The school uses a mentoring system where each student is paired with a teacher-advisor who checks in weekly about academic progress and social-emotional well-being.
Smaller class sizes (averaging 22 students per teacher) allow for individualized attention. For example, if a child struggles in math, teachers often provide extra practice sheets or one-on-one help during lunch. However, some parents note that resources for students with learning disabilities can feel limited. While the school has special education programs, a few families have mentioned long wait times for evaluations.
Diversity and Inclusion Efforts
Virginia Beach is a diverse community, and CLMS reflects that. The student body includes children from military families, immigrant households, and varying socioeconomic backgrounds. To foster inclusivity, the school hosts cultural awareness events, like International Night, where families share food and traditions.
Bullying prevention is another priority. CLMS uses a peer mediation program where trained students help resolve conflicts. While no school is immune to bullying, parents say incidents are addressed quickly. “My daughter felt safe speaking up when a classmate made hurtful comments,” said one mom. “The counselor stepped in immediately.”
Facilities and Technology
CLMS’s campus is modern and well-maintained. Classrooms are equipped with smartboards, and the school provides Chromebooks for student use. The media center doubles as a tech hub, offering 3D printers and video editing software.
That said, some parents mention overcrowding during peak hours. The cafeteria, for instance, can get noisy, making it hard for quieter kids to socialize. Others wish there were more outdoor spaces—currently, the school shares fields with a neighboring elementary campus, which limits access during the day.
Parent and Student Reviews
Online reviews paint a mostly positive picture. On GreatSchools.org, CLMS earns a 7/10 rating, with praise for its academics and extracurriculars. One eighth grader wrote, “I love how teachers make learning fun. We did a mock trial in history class, and it felt like being a lawyer!”
Negative feedback tends to focus on administrative communication. A handful of parents say they’ve struggled to get timely responses from the front office about scheduling or disciplinary issues. Others wish there were more frequent updates on their child’s progress beyond quarterly report cards.
How Does It Compare to Other Schools?
CLMS isn’t the only middle school in Virginia Beach. Nearby options like Princess Anne Middle School and Great Neck Middle School also boast strong academics. However, CLMS stands out for its STEM focus and affordability—many programs, like the robotics club, are free or low-cost, unlike pricier private alternatives.
Test scores are another consideration. CLMS’s SOL pass rates are slightly above the state average in math and science but match the district average in English. While this suggests the school is solid, it may not be the top performer in the region. For families prioritizing elite academics, private schools or gifted programs might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider CLMS?
Corporate Landing Middle School shines for families seeking a well-rounded education. Its blend of challenging academics, diverse clubs, and supportive teachers makes it ideal for kids who thrive in structured yet creative environments. The STEM Academy is a major plus for future-oriented learners.
On the flip side, if your child needs intensive special education support or prefers a smaller, quieter campus, you might explore other options. Touring the school and speaking to current parents can provide additional clarity.
At the end of the day, a “good” school depends on your child’s unique needs. CLMS may not be perfect, but its commitment to nurturing confident, curious students makes it a strong contender for many families.
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