From the Middle: Creative Re-Imagining Ideas Sought

By Diane McMillan
Associate Director

With all the emphasis on budget cuts, it's often easy to temporarily lose sight of our primary mission--educating middle level students for the next levels. Now, with even more research that what happens at the middle level really matters, middle level educators are searching for cost effective ways to continue quality middle school programs that prepare college and career ready students.

To be sure, it's not easy--the middle level is often an easy target for budget cuts. Many times the first ones on the chopping block are middle school administrators and support staff like reading, math, and intervention coaches.  Middle level electives, sports, and extra curricular programs also get consideration.  Common planning time, teaming and even reconfiguration of the middle level grades into k-8s or 7-12s also often end up on the budget reduction list. 

So, the question is,"How do we re-image middle level education to meet the demands of the 21st Century global world with limited and/or diminishing resources?" 

Middle level educators may have some creative answers, but may not be asked the questions?  Now is the time for brainstorming, networking and collaborating. Here's a link to a survey that hopes to collects some of the great ideas are out there.  We hope you'll participate because all ideas and comments may be helpful to a fellow colleague.  High school administrators, feel free to weigh in.  There's strength in numbers!

Survey link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/M3LN8MP