North Middle School, located in Portage, Mich., operates under Portage Public Schools. The school offers classes from grades six through eight with an annual enrolment of more than 550 students. It employs more than 45 trained instructors to provide educational services for students. North Middle School s specialized staff consists of reading and media specialists, guidance counselors, special education instructors, and arts, music and physical education teachers. The school offers a wide range of subjects, including English, language arts, reading and writing, science, math, band, orchestra, vocal music, family and consumer science, French, German and Spanish. It also offers courses in woodworking, water sports, power training, and technology and computer education. North Middle School follows a variety of instructional techniques, such as team coaching, thematic integrated instruction, cooperative learning and process writing. The school also has a parents involvement program that includes an association of parents and teachers.