Research has shown that ninth grade is uniquely important for student success, yet despite increased investments, leaders aren't always equipped to meet ninth graders' distinct needs. The transition from middle to high school is both critical and complex, as students encounter significant changes during this time, including taking on more advanced content and more responsibility for their own learning. Given the importance of this critical year, there should be an increased investment in ninth grade. In Education Resource Strategies' work with states and districts, however, it was often seen that high school students and teachers aren't receiving the resources and supports they need, with comparative under-resourcing in key areas of ninth grade support, including around teacher experiences and student experiences. This report offers four key structures that can enable a stronger ninth grade experience and discusses how school and system leaders can support this shift.