Welcome to the Portage West Middle School web site. We are proud to be a part of one of the finest and most progressive school districts in the State of Michigan. West Middle School is one of three middle schools in the Portage Public School system, located just one mile east of US 131 between Centre Avenue and Romence Road.
We're hopeful that as this site develops, we will be able to provide our viewers with critical information about the school's activities, curriculum and programming that will be beneficial to students, parents, community members and potential new enrollees. Please feel free to call our school at (269) 323-5800, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 and 4:00 PM if you would like to speak with someone about our school. During the summer it is best to call the Central Administration Building for information, (269) 323-5000.
Portage West Middle School houses approximately 700 students in grades six, seven and eight. Academic standards and expectations are high at West Middle School. These standards and expectations are facilitated by an experienced and well-trained staff and supported by an active and caring parent component. The standards based curriculum is both challenging and accommodating to students of all backgrounds. The core curriculum consists of Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts and Foreign Language, offering enrichment courses, advanced programming and specialized help in all areas. In addition to a strong traditional academic program, West Middle School is also host to one of the finest Fine Arts programs in the state with Band, Orchestra, Choir and Art classes from which the students may choose. The Middle School Philosophy at West is further complimented with an impressive portfolio of 'encore' classes in Physical education, Life Management, Technical education, computer training, drama and many more. All of this is further enhanced by a strong technology program, which is integrated into much of our existing curriculum and supported with computer labs and individual workstations throughout our building. Our library media program has been recognized at the state level. The academic and social programs at West Middle School are supported with a fun, caring and knowledgeable guidance department. Students from West will move on to either Portage Central or Portage Northern High School.
West Middle School has long been known for its safe environment and high academic expectations. A 'Site-Based Decision Making' model empowers staff and parents to make important decisions regarding the operation of their school.
We are pleased that you have visited our site and we would greatly appreciate an opportunity to have you visit our school.
Sincerely,
Larry Killips, Principal
Assistant Principal Roehm
Mr. Denny Roehm is the assistant principal at West Middle School. Before joining us at West Mr. Roehm was an assistant principal at Portage Central High School for three years. Prior to that, he was a math teacher at Portage Central, where he also coached basketball and soccer. Mr. Roehm is a graduate of Western Michigan University (BA, MA) and Grand Valley State University (Ed. Leadership).
Mr. Roehm and his family live in the Portage area. He enjoys spending time with his two young daughters and traveling to the western Upper Peninsula where he is originally from.
Mr. Roehm is very proud to join the Pioneer staff this year.
