I have been a part of such a team for the last 4 years. After a while we got tired of hearing the excuses and began meeting once a week on our own time at lunch. These meetings not only made our classes run smoother, they gave each of us a chance to lean on each other for support. I don't know how long you've been in a middle school, team concept, but I always thought that team prep, in addition to individual prep, was a given. Sue, it is commendable that your team met over lunch, but I don't want this to be a model to be followed by others.
Administrators are reluctant to provide team planning time because of the expense.
What we need to do is center the conversation on the value rather than the expense. How about a principal who has the ability to lead the teachers toward a true middle school concept. I taught through a series of revolving principals and it was not until we had one with a clear vision who supported teachers promoting education that we had a good school. However, I would also say that the most critical element is teachers dedicated and determined that students will learn. Mary E. Haas Staff must be willing to work toward a common vision The most critical ingredient has to be a staff that is willing to work together towards a vision of what an exemplary middle school is.