The Southern Forum grew out of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform. In June1999, the Atlanta Middle School Parent Support Group evolved from the Atlanta Middle School Advisory Council initiative, building a culture for middle school student achievement, sponsored by Atlanta Public Schools and the Southern Regional Council. The group represents parents from all 17 Atlanta middle schools, and has the primary goal of training and organizing parents to help create middle schools that are academically excellent, developmentally responsive, and socially equitable. The focus is on training to actively involve parents in establishing a healthy and productive school climate.
Communities address racial and other barriers that hinder school success.
Communities develop and nourish highly trained and experienced cadres of school and community leaders that lead education reform. Teachers and other school leaders change teaching and learning environments as well as school governance structures to improve learning and ensure student success. Families are active partners, working with schools in all aspects of the educational process to ensure access to quality education for all students. The SRC has produced a professionally-written guide with curriculum development plans for use with middle and high school students.