Web Links:

There has been an explosion of knowledge and research data about the brain and developmentally appropriate instructional and assessment strategies for middle years learners.  These are some of the people that have influenced us in our journey. 

Their books and publications are listed on their websites.

Dr. Thomas Armstrong     An educator and psychologist in the fields of multiple intelligences, the myth of ADD/ADHD, and human development.

Anne Davies      She works with educators at every level - primary to post-secondary, as well as parents to find assessment for learning solutions that work in a specific context.

Carol Dweck      Professor of Developmental Psychology at Stanford University. Her work examines the self-conceptions people use to structure the self and guide their behavior. Her research looks at the origins of these self-conceptions, their role in motivation and self-regulation, and their impact on achievement and interpersonal processes.

Eric Jensen   A former middle school reading teacher, he has authored many books on brain-based learning.

Robert J. Marzano  Marzano & Associates specializes in long term school reform efforts with K - 12 public and private school districts and individual schools for the purpose of enhancing student academic achievement.

Phil Schlechty  The Schlechty Center for School Reform works with public school leaders to transform schools from organizations that produce compliance and attendance to organizations that nurture attention and commitment at all levels in the system.

Rick Wormeli    A national educational consultant, a published author, and passionate advocate for children. A former middle school teacher with 21 years of experience and the author of many books for middle years teachers.

Rick Stiggens   The author of numerous books, articles, and papers on assessment practices in the classroom and its impact on students and student success. 

Carol Ann Tomlinson   A Professor of Educational Leadership, Foundations and Policy, she has authored a number of books on differentiating instruction.

Assessment, Student Confidence, and School Success  written by Rick Stiggens

Steve Peha  Our "guru" for Writer's Workshop.  His website, Teaching That Makes Sense, is full of practical language Arts Lessons.

Emotional intelligence is a huge factor influencing the learning of middle years students.  Below are links to the work of some of the best known facilitators in this area.

Dr. Michelle Borba  An internationally renowned educator and award-winning author who is recognized for her practical, solution-based strategies to strengthen child’s behavior, self-esteem, character, and social development, and to build strong families.

 Barbara Coloroso     An internationally recognized speaker and author in the areas of parenting, teaching, school discipline, non-violent conflict resolution and reconciliatory justice.

Diane Gossen   An educator who has worked extensively in corrections and addictions.  Restitution addresses discipline by focusing on how young people can correct their mistakes emphasizing positive solutions.