The project described in this article, the Middle Grades Project, is based on a collaborative partnership between a university school of education and three middle grades schools. The project reflects a shift in the conceptual perspective of middle grades schooling. The three-step school improvement plan,…

One of five articles in the second section, "Deepening Relationships through PDS Brings Change in Practice," this article discusses a course on portfolios for middle school teachers at a professional development school given by an Indiana State University professor. Presents teachers' insights and feelings about the course. (SM)

One of five articles in the second section, "Deepening Relationships through PDS Brings Change in Practice," this article describes a collaborative research project between a middle school mathematics teacher and a university mathematics professor. (SM)

Surveyed middle school principals to examine middle level programmatic characteristics, appropriateness, and current implementation. The study also examined teachers' perceptions of school climate. Program implementation, rather than principal's perceptions, affected school climate. Intramural programs affected school climate, influencing…