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Principal's Message
Welcome to Shields Middle School! I'm Deanna McCahan (Formerly Fisher), your principal. I moved to the SouthShore community in 1991 and have lived here most of my life. As a proud graduate of East Bay High School and the University of South Florida, I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. I began my administrative career in 2009 and have proudly served as Shields' principal since 2021. I am passionate about serving students and teachers, believing that education breaks the cycle of poverty and opens doors of opportunity. Our core values are Scholarship, Honesty, Inclusion, Empathy, Leadership, Dependability, and Service to Others. Welcome to our Cambridge International and Dual Language School!
School Highlights
SAIL Behavior Expectations
At Shields Middle School, we believe that great behavior sets the stage for great learning. That’s why we use SAIL behavior expectations to ensure a culture for learning where students are SAFE, Accountable, Invested, Leaders.
PBIS Incentive Program
Through our PBIS incentive program, students who make positive choices earn recognition points from teachers and staff. These points can be redeemed for items at our school store or saved for exciting experiences such as field days, pep rallies, and special field trips.
Benefits of Block Scheduling for Students
Deeper Learning & Better Retention = More time in each class allows for hands-on activities, meaningful discussions, and project-based learning. Reduced Daily Pressure = Fewer classes per day means fewer assignments, tests, and transitions. Improved Relationships = Longer periods give students and teachers more time to connect, support learning, and build rapport. Academic Flexibility = Students can complete more courses over the year, including electives or advanced classes.
Empowering Minds: Excellence Through Dual Language, AVID & Cambridge
Dual Language Immersion Program
Where master math, science, history, English, and reading in two languages! This immersive learning model blends English and Spanish to help students become fluent, literate, and culturally confident. Our bilingual approach deepens students’ understanding of the world around them—ensuring they’re prepared to thrive in a global future.
AVID: Empowering Every Learner
AVID—Advancement Via Individual Determination—equips students with essential skills to succeed in school, college, and beyond. At Shields, AVID strategies are implemented across all classrooms and grade levels, creating a consistent and empowering learning environment that fosters both academic excellence and personal growth.
Students are taught proven strategies for notetaking, organization, problem-solving, and communication, helping them think critically and take ownership of their learning.
Cambridge International Education
The Cambridge International Program at Shields Middle School challenges students academically while nurturing their creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. Through rich content and hands-on activities, students are encouraged to explore global ideas in depth, solve problems thoughtfully, and connect their learning to the real world.
Cambridge’s curriculum is aligned with Florida standards and enhances instruction to support students in growing as curious, confident learners prepared for a global future.
Shields Fall Festival
