The Successful Middle School: This We Believe

The fifth edition of AMLE s position paper, now titled The Successful Middle School: This We Believe is now available. For educators committed to success for every student, this updated edition of AMLE s position paper offers a set of attributes and characteristics that define successful middle schools. Rooted in research cited throughout the book, you will find a framework for creating the learning environments and opportunities that all young adolescents deserve. When its concepts are embraced, students are prepared for success in school and career. Responsive schools for young adolescents equitably implement the full range of structures, supports, and practices known to be most effective with this age group. This edition focuses on the areas of development, including physical, intellectual, moral, psychological, and social-emotional, and acknowledges that various student identities such as race, ethnicity, social class, gender, sexual orientation, and exceptionality are inexorably intertwined. Schools, districts, and higher education faculty as well as policymakers, community members, and organizations can use this resource to engage in discussion, share views, and put concepts into practice. Here are some activities the book inspires: School leaders partnering with faculty to integrate it into their schools professional development. School leaders engaging stakeholders families, boards of education, district office personnel in learning experiences that will increase their knowledge and understanding of the needs of the young adolescents in their care. School communities assessing the degree to which the school currently implements the features of a successful school and developing an improvement plan (https://www.amazon.com/Successful-Middle-School-This-Believe/dp/156090304X) For educators committed to success for every student, this updated edition of AMLE's landmark position paper is recognized as the best articulation of the middle school concept. Widely studied and employed in schools serving students ages 10-15, this book offers a set of 5 attributes and 18 characteristics that define successful middle schools. Rooted in research cited throughout the book, you will find a framework for creating the learning environments and opportunities that all young adolescents deserve. When its concepts are embraced, students are prepared for success in school and career. Responsive schools for young adolescents equitably implement the full range of structures, supports, and practices known to be most effective with this age group. This edition focuses on the areas of development, including physical, intellectual, moral, psychological, and social-emotional, and acknowledges that various student identities such as race, ethnicity, social class, gender, sexual orientation, and exceptionality are inexorably intertwined. Schools, districts, and higher education faculty as well as policymakers, community members, and organizations can use this resource to engage in discussion, share views, and put concepts into practice. Here are some activities the book inspires: - School leaders partnering with faculty to integrate it into their school's professional development. - School leaders engaging stakeholders—families, boards of education, district office personnel—in learning experiences that will increase their knowledge and understanding of the needs of the young adolescents in their care. - School communities assessing the degree to which the school currently implements the features of a successful school and developing an improvement plan Introduction The Importance of Middle Level Education Culture and Community Educators respect and value young adolescents. The school environment is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for all. Every student’s academic and personal development is guided by an adult advocate. School safety is addressed proactively, justly, and thoughtfully. Comprehensive counseling and support services meet the needs of young adolescents. The school engages families as valued partners. The school collaborates with community and business partners. Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Educators are specifically prepared to teach young adolescents and possess a depth of understanding in the content areas they teach. Curriculum is challenging, exploratory, integrative, and diverse. Challenging Exploratory Integrative Diverse Health, wellness, and social-emotional competence are supported in curricula, school-wide programs, and related policies. Instruction fosters learning that is active, purposeful, and democratic. Active Purposeful Democratic Varied and ongoing assessments advance learning as well as measure it. Leadership and Organization A shared vision developed by all stakeholders guides every decision. Policies and practices are student-centered, unbiased, and fairly implemented. Leaders are committed to and knowledgeable about young adolescents, equitable practices, and educational research. Leaders demonstrate courage and collaboration. Professional learning for all staff is relevant, long term, and job embedded. Organizational structures foster purposeful learning and meaningful relationships. Young Adolescent Development and Implications for Educators A Historical Account With Gratitude Endnotes For educators committed to success for every student, this updated edition of AMLE's landmark position paper is widely recognized as the best articulation of the middle school concept. Studied and implemented in schools serving students ages 10-15, this book offers a set of 5 attributes and 18 characteristics that define successful middle schools