This is an interesting article, very similar to the infamous book, 'Caught in the Middle'. Our students are in the midst of puberty, learning to set goals, trying to figure out who in the world they are, where they fit in, challenging their own personalities, and searching for their meaning in life.

 One thing I disagree with in the article is the 2nd paragraph that discusses that 'money' is only going to get us where we want to achieve. There are alot of things we can do in our education system without funds, but it would require us to work together as teams, be consistent, provide and exciting and enriching place for our students to LEARN>it doesn't cost anything to learn something from a teacher!

 The article also discusses the concerns of truancies, druges and gang-activity in schools. This is why our counselors are so important on our campuses, to 'counsel' these students, provide programs for particular groups of needs, etc.

 Regarding truancy, new truancy rules and standards need to be enforced, SART is not effective enough, and that program hasn't been changed in years. We need a stricter set of State and District guidelines for truancies, which involves and has a stricter PARENT accountability, since they 'are' their guardians, and the students ARE minors!! I really like the idea stated in the article about escalating intervention strategies and all to involve, and it also gives and provides consistent public information and awareness.

 Student incentives and awards are of an essence, but has anyone noticed, the students are not real thrilled sometimes with the incentives they are given anymore, After school programs are also SO important, but again, they need to be something that will 'interest' this generation group, or they are not going to come and participate.

 I agree that the 'root' of the dropout crisis is usually in middle schools, which definitely should be a focus of concern to all entities. Our encouragement, showing enthusiasm in school academics and programs, our attitudes, how we present ourselves, being a role model, sharing our goals, as well as achievements with our students definitely are an asset to their growing period while in middle school.

 As adults, we can reflect back on teachers that made an impact in our lives, teaching us everything from education, personal values, manners, so many things! And the same still happens today, we DO make a difference in a child's life, and our modeling, enthusiasm, and passion for our students is so vital in this age group and generation! It's like the bumper sticker says...."if you can read this, thank a teacher".