The “Aptos Experience”: How One Middle School is Blending Arts, Academics, and Community

At Aptos Middle School, learning goes far beyond textbooks. From jazz band to jewelry making, from Mandarin immersion to robotics, students are discovering passions, building community, and shaping what Principal Dimitric Roseboro calls the full “Aptos Experience.”

SFUSD Superintendent Maria Su recently visited the school to see firsthand how Aptos is transforming itself into a premiere performing arts middle school while staying rooted in its diverse community and strong academic foundation.

“We want to prepare the Aptos scholar to master academic standards, demonstrate 21st century skills, and develop unique perspectives to navigate high school and ultimately the world with a sense of purpose—all while upholding our Tiger values,” Principal Roseboro explained.

A Spotlight on the Arts

With the addition of a seventh period to the school day, every Aptos student now takes two electives, opening the door to a wide range of visual and performing arts. Choir, orchestra, jazz band, and drama are thriving, supported by community partnerships like the collaboration with Alonzo King’s LINES Ballet. Each week, professional artists join the drama class to expand students’ exposure to different performance styles.

Clubs that Reflect Student Voice

Aptos also gives students a chance to explore new interests through school-day clubs that meet twice a month on Wednesday afternoons, run by Aptos teachers who also enjoy the activities. The clubs are built around student surveys, ensuring offerings match what kids are most excited about. Options range from songwriting and creative writing to cooking, robotics, gaming, badminton, and more. Students choose new clubs each semester, keeping opportunities fresh and student-driven.

Celebrating the Tiger Spirit

The school mascot—the Tiger—is at the heart of community-building. Each quarter, Aptos hosts “Tiger Day,” when teachers recognize students for embodying the school’s values, and grade levels compete in spirited activities that bring the whole community together. Those values include; teamwork, integrity, grit, empathy, and responsibility.

Innovation in Academics

While Aptos is earning its reputation in the arts, it is also leading in academics. The school was an pilot school for SFUSD’s new middle school math curriculum, and under Roseboro’s leadership—now in his third year—the program has been successfully implemented.

Building the Future

With veteran teachers, a thriving arts program, and a culture of innovation, Aptos Middle School is carving out a unique place in San Francisco education. For families, it means more than just strong academics; it means a school that sees each student as a whole person with talents, interests, and values worth celebrating. That, says Roseboro, is what defines the “Aptos Experience.”