This year the middle school is offering an exciting opportunity for 8th graders to take a high school course. American government provides students with a background in the philosophy, functions, and structure of the United States government. Students examine the philosophical foundations of the United States government and how that philosophy developed. Students also examine the structure and function of the United States government and its relationship to states and citizens. Upon successful completion, the students enrolled in the course will receive .5 high school social studies credit. This will allow students to have more freedom in their academic courses later on in high school.