The middle years, from ages 10 to 15, are an important time in a young person's life. Students are learning new skills, building friendships, gaining independence and preparing for high school. They're are also facing new academic challenges.
To help students succeed during these years, the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) created the Middle Years Professional Learning Series. This series helps school leaders and teachers better understand what students need and how to support them.
The initiative began after student surveys and school data showed opportunities to strengthen both learning and well-being for students aged 10 to 15. In response, the CBE developed a coordinated approach to help schools better understand student needs, provide timely support and create learning environments where students feel safe, connected and ready to learn.
Principals help set the direction for their school and create the conditions for student success. Assistant principals coordinate teams and resources to make sure supports are available where they are needed most. Learning leaders work with teachers to improve teaching practices and help students get extra support when they need it.
For students and families, this can mean stronger relationships at school, learning experiences that better match student needs, and additional support when students need help with specific skills. This additional support might go by a name like flex time, study hall or a learning block.
How this Looks at Sherwood School
Sherwood School shared one example of how this work is making a difference.
School data showed that many students were struggling with reading and that some students did not feel a strong sense of belonging at school. School leaders knew that students learn best when they feel connected, supported and valued.
"That reality forced us to ask a difficult question: were our existing structures reaching enough students? The honest answer was no," said Principal Brenna Fraser.
To address this, staff spent the first six weeks of the school year focused on building relationships and creating a strong sense of community. Once that foundation was in place, the school introduced a daily Learning Lab for all students.
A Learning Lab is a short block built into the regular school day where students receive reading support based on their needs. Students work in small groups and receive instruction that matches their current reading level. Because every student participates, extra support is a normal part of the school day rather than something separate.
Learning Lab at Sherwood School
"Our deliberate decision to embed intervention into the school day was key. It wasn't optional or an add-on. It became part of who we are," said Assistant Principal James Loach.
Supported by learning from the Middle Years Professional Learning Series, school leaders worked closely with staff to build a shared commitment to student success. Teachers received additional support and resources in assessment, reading instruction and intervention strategies to help meet the needs of all learners.
One student described the experience this way:
"At first I wasn't a fan of Learning Lab, but now I enjoy it because it's short, the teachers change, and the topics are always different."
As the Middle Years Professional Learning Series continues, schools across the CBE will keep working to strengthen teaching, provide timely supports and create learning environments where students feel connected, confident and ready to succeed. By listening to students and using evidence to guide decisions, schools can continue adapting to meet the changing needs of middle years learners.
Learn More
At the Oct. 27 Public Board meeting, a presentation on the Middle Years Professional Learning Series highlighted the work happening across middle schools to support student success and well-being.