The structure of most middle school programs facilitates professional collaboration and peer support, important ingredients for successful inclusion. Interdisciplinary team organization is a distinguishing characteristic and foundation of the effective middle level school. Interdisciplinary teaming allows the same group of teachers to work with the same group of students. This gives the team of teachers the flexibility and autonomy to create the most efficient learning environment for each student in the group. Middle school educators claim that teaming offers students an opportunity to maximize their learning.
Diversity is a hallmark of middle level learners.
Belonging is especially crucial during early adolescence. When students are given the opportunity to interact with others, they learn to appreciate abilities, interests, and differences. They have a feeling of belonging. The widespread shift to inclusion was prompted by Public Law 94-142, The Education of the Handicapped Act of 1975. However, the general education classroom is not necessarily the least restrictive environment for all children.