Important Middle School Information for 5th Grade Families
October 27, 2026
Dear 5th Grade Families,
Middle school is an exciting new chapter filled with opportunities to discover new interests, build friendships, gain independence, and prepare for the future!
At Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD), every student deserves a place where they feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to succeed. Whether your student is interested in academics, technology, music, athletics, the arts, or discovering something new, Mount Elden Middle School (MEMS) and Sinagua Middle School (SMS) have something for everyone!
As you explore options for the 2027–2028 school year, we invite you to discover what our middle schools have to offer.
5th Grade Middle School Visits
Next week, our 5th graders will visit their future middle schools to explore the campus, learn about middle school life, and get excited for 6th grade!
Tuesday, November 3 | MEMS: DeMiguel, Kinsey, Leupp, Marshall, and Sechrist
Thursday, November 5 | SMS: Cromer, Killip, Knoles, Puente de Hózhó, and Thomas
Visits will take place from approximately 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., including transportation. Lunch will be provided for all visiting 5th graders.
Attend Our Middle School Showcases
Sinagua Middle School Showcase
Monday, November 9 | 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Mount Elden Middle School Showcase
Tuesday, November 17 | 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Come tour our schools, meet teachers and staff, explore programs and extracurricular opportunities, and get answers to your questions!
We know the transition to middle school can feel like a big step. Our caring educators and staff help students navigate their new schools, build relationships, and feel confident and supported throughout the transition.
Discover the Opportunities at FUSD Middle Schools
Both MEMS and SMS offer engaging academics, experienced educators, and a variety of opportunities to help students explore their interests and prepare for high school and beyond!
Academics: Students take core classes in English, math, science, and social studies, with honors and accelerated options available
Fine Arts: Band, orchestra, choir, and art at both schools, plus theater and guitar at MEMS and music exploratory at SMS.
World Languages: Spanish and Navajo language courses offered at both schools.
Physical Education: Students will take one PE course each year to stay active, develop healthy habits, and build teamwork skills.
CTE & STEM: Hands-on opportunities including MEMS' Innovation Station STEM Labs and Foods classes, and SMS' robotics, woods, and media production courses. Both schools also offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) exploratory courses.
Athletics: Fall, winter, and spring sports, including volleyball, basketball, cross country, soccer, and wrestling are offered to students.
Clubs & Activities: From student council and robotics to chess, art, gardening, and more! Students also enjoy school dances, pep rallies, and other events that build school spirit and friendships.
Mount Elden Middle School | Home of the Thunderbirds
At MEMS, students are encouraged to discover their path through academics, more than 25 clubs and sports opportunities, and a welcoming school community.
MEMS is guided by four pillars:
Excellence in Student Learning and Growth: Helping every student reach their full potential.
Dedicated, Caring, Student-Centered Staff: Supporting students as they learn, grow, and succeed.
Hallmarks of the MEMS Experience: Engaging clubs, athletics, traditions, and activities where students can discover their interests.
Building Strong Family and Community Ties: Creating meaningful connections that support student success and belonging.
MEMS is also an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) school, helping students build strong academic habits, organizational skills, and college and career readiness skills that prepare them for future success. As the only AVID school in Northern Arizona, MEMS provides unique opportunities for students to develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive in middle school and beyond. MEMS is also nationally recognized as a School to Watch, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and outstanding middle school education.
Free breakfasts and lunches are also provided to all MEMS students.
Learn more about MEMS: mems.fusd1.org
Sinagua Middle School | Home of the Mustangs
SMS is committed to creating a welcoming, connected community where students feel valued and have opportunities to explore their interests.
SMS is guided by four pillars:
A Welcoming Place: Ensuring everyone feels welcome and is treated with dignity and respect.
Connected Community: Building meaningful relationships so every student has a connection with at least one adult on campus.
Opportunities for Students: Providing diverse academic courses, extracurricular activities, and unique learning experiences.
Learning That Leads to Success: Preparing students with the knowledge and skills for success in high school and beyond.
SMS also offers two specialized academy programs that provide students with unique opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills: the Middle School Institute of Technology and Engineering (MIT-e) and the Puente de Hózhó Language Academy. MIT-e emphasizes hands-on learning, creativity, and problem-solving through technology and engineering, while the Puente de Hózhó Language Academy fosters language development, cultural appreciation, and meaningful connections to diverse communities.
Learn more: sms.fusd1.org
Planning for the 2027–2028 School Year
FUSD 5th grade families will receive pick sheets for middle school the week of January 11, 2027.
Visit each school's website to explore additional programs, course offerings, bell schedules, and more.
At FUSD, middle school is more than a place to learn. It's a community where students build confidence, discover their passions, form friendships, and prepare for the future.
We look forward to welcoming your family to middle school!
