Turning Around Low-Performing Middle Grades Schools: Emerging Research From a Nationally Funded Investing in Innovation (i3) Project

• In Event: Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: Current Issues in Middle-Level Education

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the emerging results of an evaluation of a U. S. Department of Education Investing in Innovation (i3) Grant designed to improve the educational practices, experiences, and outcomes of low-performing middle-grades schools. The project is testing a whole school reform model that provides multi-layered supports to middle-grades schools as they strive to improve. The paper examines quantitative longitudinal data from a self-rating rubric assessment of the implementation of middle-grades practices and longitudinal teacher survey data from 18 schools in three states. Results indicate a positive impact on teacher collaboration, work climate, classroom instructional practices, and leadership practices. Findings have the potential to assist all middle-grades schools in their efforts to improve.

Authors

• Nancy Flowers, University of Illinois

• Shahana Begum, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Matthew J. Poes, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Dawn M. H. Carpenter, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Peter F. Mulhall, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign