The lack of reading instruction for seventh and eighth graders is detrimental to their academic development at a most crucial educational period. This study presents both theory and data which substantiate the need for including reading as a specific curriculum element in the middle school. Middle school organizational plans are outlined and traditional reading programs for junior high students are discussed. Statistical information collected from the diagnostic test data of 367 middle school students in a Virginia school indicated reading skills deficiencies in areas such as specific categories of word analysis and comprehension. Several successful reading programs described in recent literature are summarized. Recommendations are given for the establishment of a continued reading skills program for all students in the middle school, not just remedial students. (MKM)