Discusses the interaction of several factors that contribute to the success of interdisciplinary teaching teams at the middle school level. Describes importance of planning time, team size, keeping students in teams, designating team areas, and longevity of teaching teams. Considers how these research-based principles can guide the improvement of…

Examines ways in which interdisciplinary teaching teams change middle school organizations; considers the structure and benefits of transformative organizations, the five features of effective implementation of organizational change, the nature of transformative organizational structures, and the ways these structures create growth-inducing…

Discusses the hazards of prematurely assessing the result of middle school reforms, noting the phenomenon of the "J-curve" effect that models a decline during an adjustment period before showing a long-term improvement. Considers reasons for this initial decline. (JPB)

Discusses the ways implementing the Carnegie Corporation's "Turning Points" principles can revitalize middle school reform and improve student outcomes. Considers the web of educational principles that constitutes these recommendations and the role of communities, teachers, and students in implementing them. (JPB)

Discusses the necessity that middle school curriculum reform include other implementation elements such as creating small communities for learning and empowering teachers and administrators. Notes that the Carnegie Corporation's "Turning Points" recommendations for curriculum change are an interactive web rather than a checklist. (JPB)

Discusses the ways in which the Project on High Performance Learning Communities helps middle school educators understand what happens in school reform between the implementation of the "Turning Points" recommendations and student outcomes. Discusses the role of school environment, teachers, and students in academic performance. (JPB)