The middle school is an educational response to the needs and characteristics of youngsters during early adolescence and, as such, deals with the full range of intellectual and developmental needs.

Young people going through the rapid growth and extensive maturation that occurs in early adolescence need an educational program that is distinctively different from either the elementary or secondary model.

No other age level is of more enduring importance because the determinants of one's behavior as an adult. Self-concept, learning interests, skills, and values are largely formed in this period of life.

The academic needs of middle school students are affected greatly by their physical, social, and emotional needs, all of which must be addressed directly in the school program.