ED390546 PS023818
Title: This We Believe: Developmentally Responsive Middle Level Schools.
A Position Paper.
Author Affiliation: National Middle School Association, Columbus,
OH.(BBB21055)
Pages: 45
Publication Date: 1995
ISBN: 1-56090-105-5
Available from: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage.
Availability: National Middle School Association, 2600 Corporate Exchange
Drive, Suite 370, Columbus, OH 43231.
Language: English
Document Type: Opinion papers (120)
Geographic Source: U.S.; Ohio
Journal Announcement: RIEMAY1996
Following
the introduction of the middle school in the 1960s with its advocacy
of a 5-8 or 6-8 grade configuration, no comprehensive statement
appeared to crystallize the educational beliefs inherent in this
emerging educational reform effort. This paper is not just a revision
of the 1982 position statement, but a "re-vision" of middle
level education. The paper is offered as a guide to assist in achieving
developmentally responsive educational programs for young adolescents.
The rationale for middle level schools is discussed in view of the
characteristics and needs of young adolescents as well as the rapid
changes in society. Six general characteristics of young adolescent
educational programs are identified, which, when operational, would
enable schools to make the most appropriate program decisions. These
are: (1) educators committed to young adolescents; (2) a shared
vision of middle level education; (3) high expectations for all
students; (4) an adult advocate for every student's academic and
personal development; (5) family and community partnerships; and
(6) a positive school climate. The six major middle level program
components are defined as: (1) curriculum that is challenging, integrative,
and exploratory; (2) varied teaching and learning approaches; (3)
assessment and evaluation that promote learning; (4) flexible organizational
structures; (5) programs and policies that foster health, wellness,
and safety; and (6) comprehensive guidance and support services.
These twelve characteristics delineate a vision of what developmentally
responsive middle schools could be and should be. (BAC)
Descriptors: Adolescent Development; *Adolescents; Curriculum Development;
*Developmental Programs; Educational Environment; Intermediate Grades;
Junior High Schools; *Middle Schools; Partnerships in Education;
Position Papers; *Preadolescents; Professional Development; Role
Models; School Policy; Student Evaluation; Student Needs; Teaching
Methods
Identifiers: *Developmentally Appropriate Programs; Educator Role;
Middle School Students; *National Middle School Association; *This
We Believe
