Beavercreek Transition to Middle Schools

As a result of passing the 1995 bond issue for renovating schools, Beavercreek's junior high schools will be converted to middle schools.

The superintendent's office has directed those responsible for the transition to implement the recommendations of the National Middle School Association. The original PRIDE mandates, the transition committee recommendations, and public concerns are provided below.

Recommendations of the National Middle School Association.

National Middle School Association Beliefs

... a Middle School ... is appropriately designed to meet the distinct developmental needs of young adolescents.

Resolution Adopted by the National Middle School Association

Therefore, be it resolved that NMSA urge school personnel to implement flexible grouping practices which place student needs above organizational and instructional convenience.

National Middle School Association Research Summary #6: Heterogeneous Grouping

...among the "factors critical to program success" enumerated in the summary is the following: students were grouped by ability and/or performance for language arts and mathematics instruction.

An anonymous guide to help traditionally organized schools move beyond tracking.

...hire-or groom-a well-informed, progressive, conscientious, dedicated courageous principal to facilitate their school's campaign for better education. ... take risks and to be willing to accept negative consequences on the occasions when innovative initiatives fail to pay off.

Recommendations of the PRIDE Committee

Summary of PRIDE Recommendations

PRIDE:BEAVERCREEK SCHOOL FACILITIES

Currently approximately 600 students - nearly 10% of the student population - require some form of special education as mandated by state and federal laws. Beavercreek schools have also had to expand the menu of courses available for the student who has a broader spectrum of needs. This has increased the number of students who are involved in honors classes, advanced-level classes, and advanced placement classes involving the equivalent of college credit.

POTENTIAL FACILITY OPTIONS

Some of the major preferences identified by the community during the first community meeting were: Support for an academically strong educational program at all educational levels;... Preference for increased use of technology in the delivery of instruction;... Supports an increased emphasis on computer literacy.

Recommendations of the middle school transition subcommittes

Middle School Committee Recommendation Synopsis

Academic Placement Committe Recommendations

Community Dialog and Feedback

Notes from PTO Executive Board Meeting

Unanswered Questions