Research indicates that middle schools are very successful at meeting the needs and developmental characteristics of young adolescents. Middle schools use a team approach, providing stability and continuity as teachers integrate subject areas into broader themes and units. Parental involvement is encouraged at the middle school level. (SM)

Parents and professionals are increasingly working together to serve handicapped children; however this partnership is often marred by conflict. Most explanations for the conflict emphasize the psychological and attitudinal characteristics of individuals. Although this explanation has some validity, it precludes identification of the more basic…

Parents need to understand the responsibilities of people at all levels of school governance. This paper discusses the role of the state government (usually state boards of education), the local school board, the superintendent, and the principal. A sidebar presents information on teamwork involving PTAs, principals, superintendents, and school…