Orange Middle School Response

Administration should be praised for placing common planning time at a premium.
Teachers should be commended for using this time effectively to diagnose problems and collaborate on solutions.

Teachers should also be praised for having the courage to teach a technique like ROPE-W. For most English teachers, the last thing they want to do is make writing a soulless, formulaic exercise. And while it might not be what they envisioned when they signed their contracts, these teachers are developing a foundation for growth. Middle school teachers, especially in failing districts, must not seek tangible rewards in the form of seeing students flourish. They should rest confidently in the knowledge that they have set the student on a solid path going forward.

Two recommendations would involve the weekly meetings and the uniforms. Both of these issues can seem like window dressing to outsiders. It is therefore important that the principal demonstrates action in response to student feedback. A principal willing to have such meetings must be willing to handle the radical issues and ideas that might be brought up. More harmful to student morale than administrative dictatorship is the illusion of democracy. I would also recommend a stated rationale for the uniforms to students. In an environment where we are trying to build relationships and personal understanding, it can be trying to have everyone dressed the same. I feel the same sense of continuity and shared purpose can be conveyed to students [and accepted by them] in other ways. To build this climate we have to foster the core belief that all are equal...through curriculum design, extracurricular programs, even student awards/recognition. Uniforms look the part but without student buy-in...they are all sizzle and no steak.