About Our School

General Information

OUR HISTORY

Southwest Middle School, home of the Seminoles, prides itself on tradition and a deep sense of community.

Founded in 1956 as a junior high school that included ninth grade, the school became a middle school, for grades 6-8, in 1992. SWMS's history includes many families who have had multiple generations attend the school - and each is a shining example of the school's impact and heritage.

Throughout its history, SWMS has strived to create and nurture a culture of excellence and high expectations, and as a result, the school claims a long list of "notable 'Noles," including Robert Palmer of RP Funding; Lindsey Alley, an acclaimed singer/performer, actress and Mouseketeer; professional athletes Maurkice and Michael Pouncey, currently in the NFL, Matt Diaz, a former Atlanta Brave, and Alvin Jones, formerly an NBA player. Many other famous Lakeland names, such as Youkey, Badcock, Belotto are found on the rolesat SWMS.

Each year approximately 800 students call SWMS home. Even as times have changed, we continue - and will continue - to provide a warm, safe environment where children can grow academically and socially. Through our dedicated staff and high expectations, we provide a world-class education that enriches the lives of all our students.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

SWMS celebrates its past while also building a bright future.

During its more than 60-year history, a number of sacred traditions have endured at SWMS, including the annual eighth-grade Crystal Ball, a dance where students celebrate the end of their middle school years and make memories that will last a lifetime. SWMS administrators continue to organize the event to honor the school's history and instill in each new generation of eighth-graders a sense of "Nole" pride.

While honoring its past, SWMS has also eagerly embraced the future, adding pre-academies in opportunity-rich fields including agriculture, business technology, culinary arts, media design, and science and technology innovation. Each of the pre-academies is designed to provide students with a solid foundation for their future studies - and ultimately - careers.

SWMS is also home to the only deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) program for middle school students in the school district. This program includes two teachers, three interpreters and two paraprofessionals. We sponsor the Sign Language Club and the Deaf Culture Club (DCC).

At SWMS, we offer an academic experience rich in real-world relevancy. We believe in being true N.O.L.E.S. by:

Never giving up, being On task at all times, Learning something new every day, Exhibiting self-control, and Showing kindness and respect.

We are proud of our Noles nation, and we look forward to having you and your child join us.