ABOUT

E. Russell Hicks Middle School, part of Washington County Public Schools, serves grades 6–8 on South Potomac Street in Hagerstown. A magnet school with a humanities focus, it offers a specialized Gifted & Talented magnet program in English Language Arts and Social Studies.

With roughly 850 students the school emphasizes personalized instruction. A diverse community, about 15% of students participate in the gifted program, and the student body reflects broad representation across ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Magnet curriculum integrates the William & Mary units and advanced literature, primary source analysis, cross‑curricular projects, and creative teaching strategies such as Socratic Seminars and multimedia learning. Summer interdisciplinary projects help students start each academic year with momentum and engagement.

Extracurricular opportunities include a robust band program supported by parent-led boosters, as well as choir, orchestra, art club, Robotics club, after school clubs/activities, and the Morning Announcements Crew. Students also benefit from field experiences, field trips, and museum visits, reinforcing real‑world connections.

Overall, E. Russell Hicks blends rigorous academic preparation with creative enrichment, nurturing students to be critical thinkers and globally aware citizens, well-prepared for their diverse futures.