Governing Democratically: Sharing the Leadership; Sharing the Vision
“It takes a village” is uniquely true for middle level students. The role and relationship of the parent changes in adolescence. Adolescents also start to look to their peers and other important adults in their lives (such as educators) for how to interpret and find their way in the world. Middle level education needs to involve all stakeholders in leadership opportunities to provide for an environment where students can practice their newly developing decision-making skills and voice safely. “An effective Middle Level uses all of the stakeholders to create an environment using best practices.” Joseph Eidson, Called to the Middle
the Vision Structures & Ways to Share Teams of Teachers – share the decision-making and planning responsibilities for students on their teams Students- voices in classroom, Student Council and through Advisory programs Parents – Middle Level Parent Advisory Council (PAC) All stakeholders make decisions based on:
What is in the best interest of all students? And every student?
The Middle Level Leader: Communicates and demonstrates a respect for all constituents: teachers, students, and parents, while always keeping the best interest and safety of students as the operating goal. Has an understanding and calling to work with middle level students.
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