Is it common for junior high schools to not do a school play?

The middle schools in my area do not have theater departments and do not put on school plays.  Neither do the high schools for that matter.  Some of the students do participate in a few local theater organizations though, and some of the nearby universities allow community members to participate in their productions as well. 

Many jr.high/middle schools do offer theater and put on musicals.  But not all have the facilities. 

So I would say it is not unusual not to put on a play or have a theater.