Middle-Grades Leadership Development (MLD) Project

The Middle-Grades Leadership Development (MLD) Project is a comprehensive school improvement initiative designed to develop principal leaders and leadership teams who create high-performing middle-grades schools. The project targets middle schools (grades 6-8) serving high-need student populations with suppressed achievement test scores. The intervention uses an extensive set of supports including: creating a vision using the Schools to Watch (STW) criteria; engaging in an assessment and planning process for improvement; STW leadership coach; principal mentor; STW mentor schools; leadership team development; networking opportunities; and focused professional development. Implementation occurs over three years with intensive coaching support, professional development sessions, and school visits. The project requires establishment of a leadership team (minimum 6 members including principal, district administrator, and teacher leaders) that meets regularly to examine data, develop action plans, and drive school improvement efforts. Teachers and principals participate in professional development focused on leadership, collaboration, and STW criteria implementation.