Twain's 10 Points of Pride
Twain’s 10 Points of Pride
We are Proud to Be Tigers!
Discover What Makes Our School Shine
Twain Middle School serves students in grades 7 and 8. Known for its diverse student body and strong academic programs, the school emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. Twain offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and clubs, to support well-rounded student development. The school is dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment and preparing students for success in high school and beyond.
International Baccalaureate® Middle Years Program (IB MYP) 
Twain Middle School is proud to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program to all of its students. We offer a world-class education that goes beyond traditional learning. Our rigorous IB curriculum challenges students of all levels to develop critical thinking skills, understand different cultures, and learn how to solve problems in real-world situations. With a focus on conceptual-based learning, the IB curriculum prepares students for a life in a global society. Students who move on to Edison High School continue the IB program in grades 9-10.
A Purple Star School, Supporting Military Families
Twain has earned the Distinguished Purple Star School Designation. Purple Star Schools are recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children for their dedication to helping military-connected students and their families.
Achieving the Dream with AVID 
Our school offers the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, which gives students the tools they need to succeed in college. It focuses on important skills like critical thinking, effective writing, note-taking, research skills, and good study habits. Students get to visit local colleges, explore college options, and think about their future careers. Each year we hold an AVID Signing Night to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and the impact of the adults that support them.
The Best PTA Around!
The Twain Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is an active and vital partner in our school community. Parents and caregivers volunteer their time to create exciting events, such as the Tiger Night Student Social, and support staff appreciation initiatives like Staff Member of the Month. Find out more about our PTA.
Mark Twain’s Birthday, A Delicious Annual School Tradition
We celebrate Mark Twain’s birthday with an annual tradition where students and staff each get a cupcake. Families and staff come together to donate the treats and pass them out to grateful students during lunch. It’s a delicious way to celebrate, and a testament to our strong PTA and community support!
Exciting After School Programs for All Students
Our school offers free after school programming for all students, every school day. Our school has the 4th highest after school activities participation rate among FCPS middle schools. Students can choose from more than 20 clubs and activities, such as Book Club, Drama Club, Ultimate Frisbee, and more!
Outstanding School Leaders, Teachers, and Staff
Our staff goes above and beyond to support and advocate for our students every day. Andrew Orenstein, our Assistant Principal for Special Education, was named the 2024 Outstanding School-Based Leader for FCPS Region 3.
Award-winning Music Programs
We are winners of the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Blue Ribbon Award, the highest award given to schools music programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia. This honor recognizes achieved excellence in Band, Orchestra, and Choral Performance. All top eligible performing groups must receive a final Superior rating at VMEA District Concert Performance Assessment to qualify for this award.
Students Leading Change
At Twain Middle School, we believe in empowering students to be changemakers, and this belief came to life when 33 of our students attended the “Girls Leading Change” event at the White House. Representing our cross country team and robotics/STEM program, these young leaders were inspired by 15 extraordinary girls from across the country who are transforming their communities. Our students embraced the opportunity to learn how they, too, can create meaningful impact, and their exemplary behavior made us proud. Twain is a place where students’ imaginations and drive turn opportunities into action — whether in our hallways, the local community, or on a national stage.
Global Classroom Project: Tackling Hunger and Food Insecurity
Twain Middle School participates in the Global Classroom Project, which provides an opportunity for students to work with peers from around the world on authentic tasks and challenges. We are collaborating with students at the Affiliated Tao-Yuan Agricultural and Industrial Senior High School of National Taipei University of Technology to design plans to advocate for more equitable access to healthy food in their home communities.