Our Mission Statement

Holmes International Middle School is a place where the teachers, administrators, students, parents, and staff share the responsibility for academic achievement. We believe that all students at Holmes International Middle School shall maximize their learning potential by demonstrating sustained improvement in all academic areas and mastery of the California State Standards. In an effort to close the achievement gap, and successfully meet our goals, Holmes will focus on improving student reading, writing, and mathematical skills across all academic areas. In addition, professional development will be focused on improving teachers' instructional classroom practices.

The Holmes Way

Holmes is a caring community where adults and students treat each other with courtesy and kindness.

Holmes students have high standards of appropriate behavior.
Holmes is a safe school where we settle conflicts in a non-violent manner.

Holmes students receive the highest level of academic instruction.

Holmes students and staff recognize the value of a healthy mind and body.

Holmes students, staff and parents share in the educational decision-making process.

Our History

Holmes was opened in January 1966, as a Junior High School serving students in grades seven, eight, and nine. In August of 1992, Holmes reconfigured to become a Middle School, serving students in grades six, seven, and eight. The Holmes International Humanities Magnet opened in September 1994.Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., for whom our school is names, was an American philosopher and jurist. He was born in Boston on March 8, 1841, graduated from Harvard University, and served in the Civil War for three years. Later he returned to Harvard Law School and, after graduation in 1866, practices law in Boston. He became an instructor in constitutional law at Harvard and edited the American Law Review. Mr. Holmes served as Associate Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Court and became its Chief Justice in 1899. In 1902, he was appointed to the United States Supreme Court, beginning a thirty-year period of distinguished service. He retired at the age of 91, admired and respected as a great American. After his death in 1935, it was discovered that he had left his money and property to the land he loved-the United States. Our International theme was adopted by Holmes Middle School in 1983. On December 19, 1991, the Holmes International Flag Court was dedicated to retiring Principal Dr. Jeanie Dreier, to honor her commitment and dedication to the many students she served at Holmes.

Our Emblem

Our school emblem is an Eagle, which represents strength, gracefulness, and keenness of vision. These qualities symbolize endurance, pleasing movement, and foresight, all of which represent attributes that enhance student success.

Our Colors

Holmes school colors are blue and white, which also have meaning. The color blue represents loyalty and truth, while the color white represents purity and honesty. It is hoped that the history and meaning of these words will characterize each of our students who attends Holmes International Middle School or Holmes International Humanities Magnet.