Successful teachers of the unique group of students found in middle schools need training, resources, research information, time, mentoring, affiliation, and confidence. (SK)

Identifies the personal characteristics needed by middle grade teachers to successfully teach young adolescents (e.g., sensitivity, enthusiasm for teaching, and ability to involve students in learning). Recommends that middle grade teacher preparation focus on a continually reviewed and refined knowledge base, school-based practica, and…

The seven articles in this document concern children, programs, and teachers in the middle grades. The first article, "Essential Elements of Effective Middle Level Education" (C. K. McEwin) serves as an overview of the subsequent articles. "Middle Schools; A Re-Appraisal" (H. E. Sadoff) cautions educators against assuming that a school structure…

The purposes of this study were, first, to gather descriptive information regarding the measurement and evaluation skills actually utilized by junior high school teachers and, second, to identify differences among elementary, junior, and senior high school teachers. A questionnaire of 41 statements assessed on a five-point scale the usefulness to…

Drawing on the experiences of a fictitious teacher, the paper illustrates where professional development has been and where it is going as it supports more learner-centered schools, discussing the nature of the paradigm shift in professional development that will support the building and continuity of learner-centered schools. (SM)

Profiles two middle school teacher-education programs: (1) the undergraduate program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro; and (2) the graduate program at Maryville University in St. Louis County, Missouri. Emphasizes the need to provide special preparation to the teachers at this level. Discusses problems related to the rarity of…

Argues that middle school educators and administrators need professional preparation specific to middle school students' unique social, emotional, and educational needs. Focuses on the importance of the principal to gain appropriate training and foster professional staff preparation and development. Contains recommendations for creating…

Practices for improving adolescent literacy--which includes reading, writing, and speaking--are much discussed and debated among secondary school educators and researchers. At Discovery Middle School in Madison, Alabama, the debate has ended after teachers and administrators implemented several practices that elevated student achievement from…