Carmel Valley Middle School (CVMS) opened in 1999 and serves more than 1,300 students in a rapidly growing and dynamic community. Our mission is to educate our students to become lifelong learners who will be resourceful, responsible, and compassionate community members. Our schoolwide theme, Carmel Valley Connects, focuses on making middle school a supportive and enjoyable transition while encouraging high academic achievement. Over 30 student clubs and activities help students feel connected on campus. Excellent teachers and an involved and supportive parent community create a learning environment that is safe and respectful, offering each student a variety of opportunities to succeed. All classroom instruction is tied to the California Content Standards. In 2006 our Academic Performance Index (API) increased 10 points to 941. In 2003 we were named a California Distinguished School.