This We Believe

How it Works in Schools

New! This We Believe Study Guide

The position paper of the Association for Middle Level Education (formerly NMSA), This We Believe, has come to be recognized as the best articulation of the middle school concept, the accepted standard. A position paper speaks in visionary generalizations; moving the ideals into actual practice is a demanding task that has to be undertaken if needed and fundamental changes are to be made.

After publishing the 2010 edition of its position paper, This We Believe: Keys to Educating Young Adolescents, AMLE published the revised edition of the book and DVD combo, This We Believe in Action: Implementing Successful Middle Level Schools in 2012. This book includes policies, programs, and practices that are effective in developing the talents, skills, knowledge, and character of young adolescents. The accompanying DVD provides vivid scenes, interviews, and narrative from classrooms around the country to highlight how each school meets its students' needs.

View a sample chapter from the book