Deciding which instructional strategies to employ is a complex issue faced daily by middle school teachers. Although a wealth of literature on developmentally appropriate and responsive middle school instructional practices is available, the extent to which these strategies are employed is often unknown. Thus, the purpose of this study was to…

Given the increased attention on school-based programs to decrease obesity and emphasize fitness among children, there is an alarming lack of attention on health and wellness of school administrators. This study investigated the work-life balance, health, and nutrition status of secondary administrators in one Midwest state using an online survey.…

To establish an effective, collaborative work culture, the school and its members must embrace continuous improvement. Principals can use certain activities and leadership approaches to help establish a productive school culture. One Oklahoma middle-school principal involved faculty in creating a school vision and developing grade-level teaching…

Iroquois Middle School (Michigan) has a five-fold and ongoing positive reinforcement program of birthday cards, student of the month, personalized report cards, positive notes and phone calls, and student awards. (MLF)

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between student reading achievement and the organizational health of five middle grades schools in North Carolina. The theoretical framework was based upon Hoy and Feldman's definition of organizational health, which links healthy school climates to improved learning environments and…

To the author joy suggests an inner harmony with one's physical and human environment. Pupils, teachers, and principals--all are constantly reaching for that inner harmony. (Author/CB)

Research review suggests that parent involvement in middle school and high school has positive effect on the academic success of students. Proposes strategies for middle and high school principals to recruit parent and community volunteers and to train teachers to work with volunteers. (Contains 23 references.) (PKP)

Creating successful schools for all early adolescent learners requires educators, parents, and community members to rethink current middle-school organizational structures, programs, and practices. The great challenge is recreating schools as inclusive communities that offer equal educational opportunities. Learning should be emphasized as…

Describes a framework for moving from the general school effectiveness factors to specific practices and behaviors focusing on strong leadership by the principal. Outlines the general functions of instructional leadership, then narrows to one function, monitoring student progress, and derives specific principal behaviors. (MLF)

Based on 12 years of involvement with advisory programs in various formats, this article underscores their benefits--including positive school climate, student proficiency at solving peer conflicts, and enhanced student self-esteem. Advisory programs, which serve a prereferral function, should be coordinated by the school counselor and scheduled…

Nativity Prep, a small, inner-city Roman Catholic middle school seeks to provide an environment that helps students excel in their studies and their personal development. The school has few discipline problems due to its small size; its strict, highly structured academic climate; its underpaid and devoted faculty; and its practice of praying…

Takes a hard look at middle-level education--where it has been, where it is, and where it should be going. (Editor/RK)

To determine effects of uniforms on school climate, students in two Charleston (South Carolina) County middle schools were surveyed in Spring 1966, using NASSP's Comprehensive Assessment of School Environments (CASE) School Climate Survey. Students in the uniform school rated climate as more positive in 9 out of 10 subscales. School uniforms are…

An essential element of middle schools is a student evaluation procedure compatible with students' needs. The key features of such a marking and reporting system are outlined. (MLF)

Many middle schools use teaming or other models to create smaller teaching and learning units. Too often, schools align these models with characteristics advocated in the literature, rather than focusing on collaborative work environments' effects on teachers' and students' lives. These structures' true value lies in the collaborative work…