Characteristics of a Healthy Middle School

Link to our Mission & Belief Statements

 

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"The focus on teaching and learning should drive changes in organization, governance, teacher preparation and professional development, culture and environment, and connections to parents and community." (p. 25)

 

  • Rigorous Curriculum - Teach a curriculum grounded in rigorous, public academic standards for what students should know and be able to do, relevant to the concerns of adolescents and based on how students learn best.

    • Curriculum that is challenging, integrative, and exploratory
    • Assessment and evaluation that promote learning
    • High expectations for all
  • Engaging Instruction - Use instructional methods designed to prepared all students to achieve higher standards and become life-long learners
    • Varied teaching and learning approaches
    • Flexible organizational structures
    • Interdisciplinary teaming
  • Knowledgeable Staff - Staff middle grades schools with teachers who are expert at teaching young adolescents, and engage teachers in ongoing, targeted professional development opportunities.
    • Educators committed to young adolescents
    • Continuous staff training in adolescent development
  • Shared Community - Organize relationships for learning to create a climate of intellectual development and a caring community of shared educational purpose.
    • A shared vision
    • A positive school climate
    • An adult advocate for every student
  • Team Participation - Govern democratically, through direct or representative participation by all school staff members, the adults who know students best.
    • All teachers represented through teams
    • Building decisions made through advisory team
  • Positive Environment - Provide a safe and healthy school environment as part of improving academic performance and developing caring and ethical citizens
    • Programs and policies that foster health, wellness, and safety
    • Comprehensive guidance and support services
  • Involved Stakeholders - Improve parents and communities in supporting student learning and healthy development.
    • Family and community partnerships
    • Open communication between school and stakeholders
    • Active collection of stakeholder feedback