What Is Turning Points?

Turning Points is a comprehensive education reform model that focuses on improving student learning.

Recognizing the need to both strengthen the academic core of middle schools and establish caring, supportive environments that value all young adolescents, Turning Points helps middle schools undergo dramatic change.

By working with Turning Points, middle school teachers are coached in tested, effective instructional methods geared specifically for the middle-level learner. Students and teachers are organized in new ways. Students are engaged in planning and managing their own learning. The school schedule may be redesigned. Professional development operates differently. New partnerships between the school and the community are created. Schools participate in a local, regional and national network of schools which helps them develop all facets of their schools. All of these efforts are focused squarely on improving learning, teaching, and assessment.

With comprehensive support from our staff, Turning Points middle schools commit to a multiyear, systemic change process that is based on seven guiding principles. The principles form a framework for creating middle schools that address the needs of young adolescents. Turning Points schools engage in six practices that translate the principles into effective action and lead to significant and sustained improvement in student learning.

To learn more about Turning Points' work with schools, click on one of the links below:

Principles & Practices
Services and Support
The History of Turning Points
Turning Points Schools
Our Vision for Middle School Students
Beliefs About Teachers

Post Falls Middle School Link