A new study on effective middle schools has just been released. (Cursor down to the bottom to download the report.) The research was conducted by EdSource with several reputable researchers on board, including Michael Kirst. They looked at 303 middle schools in California; half served middle income students and half served low income students. (via Joanne Jacobs)

Controlling for student demographics, they found certain commonalities in the high performing schools. The high performing schools identified student disabilities quickly and provided services. They prepared kids for demanding high schools. They had goals for the students that could be measured. Adults were held responsible for meeting these goals. Curriculum and instruction were closely aligned with state standards. Effective leadership by the superintendent and principal was critical. Also important was parental involvement.

Significantly, they found no correlation between successful schools and modes of instruction or organization of teachers. In other words, collaborative learning and styles of math instruction made no difference in student performance.

Harry had a great post a few weeks ago about the importance of bringing research on education into the schools.That's why I forwarded this study to our local middle school principal and the school superintendent. I suggest that you do it, as well, along with a friendly little FYI e-mail.