This essay argues for an expanded understanding of three of the Essential Attributes--Developmentally Responsiveness, Empowerment and Equity--established by "This We Believe: Keys to Educating Young Adolescents" to address the unique needs of adolescents who are refugees. It provides a practical framework for readers to assist their understanding of the kaleidoscope of issues that face our refugee adolescent population (NMSA/AMLE, 2010). For each of the essential attributes, practical application for the middle grades classroom is offered. These ideas are to assist teachers in meeting the needs of their students who come from a refugee background and to give a foundation in an area that is often overlooked in the current educational system.