INDICATORS OF QUALITY IN MIDDLE LEVEL PROGRAMS

Mission:

The middle grades program has a strong, meaningful, commonly shared mission.

The Principal:

The principal leads the staff, students, families, and community in accomplishing the middle grades mission.

Staffing:

Teachers have knowledge and understanding of middle grades students and a strong desire to promote growth and learning.

A Time of Transition:

The middle grades program supports students in making successful transitions.

Curriculum:

The curriculum is challenging, balanced, and supports the mission.

Scheduling the Program:

The school day is varied and flexible to best meet the learning needs of middle grades students.

Instructional Strategies:

Instructional strategies are designed to keep students active and fully engaged in learning.

Learning Climate:

A climate of trust exists between students and adults.

Classroom Management:

Quality instruction and engaged learning are key to effective classroom management.

Assessment and Evaluation:

Assessment and evaluation of student progress are continuous and appropriate to the learning activity.

Advisory Services:

Advisory services that enhance the instructional program and support learning, safety, and wellness are available to the middle grades student.

Middle Grades Activities:

Students experience success in physical, social, and service activities.

Professional Development:

Middle grades staff continue their own education through formal staff development, networking, personal study, and research.

Family, Community, and School Relationships:

Caring for middle grades students takes a combined effort by the school, the family, and the community.