Meeting the needs of this unique group of students is the greatest challenge facing middle school educators today. Educators must be enthusiastic about the possibilities of enriching the lives of these young people at this crucial point in their development. Not meeting those needs often results in alienation from school, loss of general self-esteem and a sense of belonging, and destructive methods of coping, including delinquency and drugs. Early adolescents encounter serious problems and concerns daily, and significant steps must be taken by educators, parents, community members, and policymakers to ensure that middle schools will be places where all early adolescents will have the opportunity to be successful. The four major goals of the operational framework are organizational arrangements, curriculum, student support, and parent and community involvement.
Teams interact with parents and plan interdisciplinary units.
Team activities and recognition are promoted. Team Planning Time Team planning time exists during each school day. Team time is separate from individual conference time. Team teachers develop a communication system to involve elective teachers and support staff. Team planning time is organized and productive.