Middle school closures are a potential threat in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The approach to deal with this issue appears to differ between the two cities.
In the ongoing debate about the best educational model for middle-grade students, two distinct approaches have emerged: K-8 schools and standalone middle schools. Both models have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on various factors.
K-8 schools, which offer education from kindergarten through eighth grade, provide a sense of continuity for students. Since they remain in the same environment from kindergarten through eighth grade, students can foster stronger relationships with their peers and teachers. This continuity can lead to higher reported self-esteem and a more stable experience during early adolescence [1].
However, K-8 schools tend to be less racially and socioeconomically diverse than standalone middle schools [1]. In contrast, standalone middle schools, typically grades 6-8 or 7-8, often have more diverse student populations and provide specialized middle-level education tailored to the developmental needs of early adolescents with distinct middle-grade curricula and resources [1].
One of the drawbacks of K-8 schools can be a lack of specialized middle school resources and programs. Standalone middle schools may offer more diverse elective opportunities and age-specific extracurricular activities [1]. They also may better prepare students for high school transitions due to exposure to a larger, more diverse peer group and increased independence [1].
The Association for Middle Level Education highlights good professional development as crucial for educators to have a developmentally appropriate understanding of their students [2]. Understanding the unique needs of early adolescents is key to a successful middle school program, and this understanding is often better fostered in standalone middle schools.
In terms of academic performance, recent research does not imply a definitive superiority for either model [1]. However, some evidence points to social-emotional benefits in K-8 settings [1]. For instance, a study conducted in Philadelphia during the 1990s found that students who stayed in K-8 schools performed better on standardized tests than students in district middle schools [3].
However, critics of the 1990s study noted that the benefit was primarily felt in more established K-8 schools serving more affluent students [3]. A more recent study published in 2019 found middle-grade students do better on state exams when they attend a K-8 school, but other recent studies suggest there isn't enough conclusive evidence to say that grade structure is key to effective middle school practices [3].
In light of these findings, both Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington and Pittsburgh school leaders are considering school closures to address declining enrollment and budget issues. Watlington wants to reduce the number of grade bands and close all standalone middle schools, emphasizing schools that offer a combination of elementary, middle, and high school models [4]. In Pittsburgh, this reconfiguration plan includes developing three new teacher professional development centers [4].
Retired middle school principal Bruce Vosburgh believes the success of the transition from elementary to middle school depends on how school leaders manage that transition [5]. Vosburgh looks for a curriculum that flows from grade level to grade level when reviewing a middle school as director of Pennsylvania's Schools to Watch program [5].
In conclusion, the choice between K-8 and standalone middle schools involves trade-offs related to social-emotional support, diversity exposure, and curriculum specialization tailored to early adolescents. Both models have their merits, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each community.
References: 1. Education Week 2. Association for Middle Level Education 3. The Hechinger Report 4. The Philadelphia Inquirer 5. Pittsburgh Public Schools
K-8 schools, with their focus on providing a sense of continuity for students from kindergarten to eighth grade, also prioritize education and self-development by fostering stronger relationships among students and teachers.
On the other hand, standalone middle schools, which offer a more diverse student population and specialized middle-level education, also emphasize education and self-development by providing diverse elective opportunities and age-specific extracurricular activities, as well as preparing students for high school transitions.
