Highlights of Exemplary Practices Aligned with the 18 Characteristics of Successful Middle Schools

Every student’s academic and personal development is guided by an adult advocate.

Our KORT program (Knights of the Round Table) advisory is a cornerstone of our commitment to student well-being and connection. This multi-grade structure fosters a powerful sense of community, allowing older students to mentor and guide younger ones, while younger students benefit from the wisdom and experience of their peers. KORT sessions are carefully structured to provide a safe space for open dialogue, personal growth, and the development of essential social-emotional skills. It's where students learn to support each other, build resilience, and truly feel like they belong to something bigger than just their individual grade.

Recognizing the profound impact of positive adult relationships, our teacher-student mentoring program is a vital component of our school. This program intentionally pairs students with dedicated teachers who serve as mentors, offering guidance, encouragement, and a consistent source of support. These mentors provide academic assistance, connection and serve as role models, helping students navigate the complexities of adolescence. This personalized attention fosters stronger connections between students and staff, boosting student confidence, engagement, and overall academic success.

Organizational structures foster purposeful learning and meaningful relationships.

At Elwood Middle School, we operate with a highly effective teaming model that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among teachers and creates a cohesive learning environment for students. Each team of teachers shares a common group of students, enabling them to collectively monitor academic progress, address behavioral concerns, and develop integrated lessons. This collaborative approach ensures that every student benefits from a unified instructional vision and consistent support across all subjects. The teaming model also facilitates seamless communication between teachers, parents, and students, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of each child's needs and strengths.

School safety is addressed proactively, justly, and thoughtfully.

Restorative Practices: We are profoundly committed to fostering a school culture rooted in restorative practices. Instead of solely focusing on punishment, our approach emphasizes repairing harm, rebuilding relationships, and teaching students to take responsibility for their actions. Through restorative circles, mediation, and thoughtful dialogue, students learn conflict resolution skills, empathy, and how their behavior impacts others. This commitment to restorative practices not only reduces disciplinary incidents but also cultivates a more peaceful, respectful, and inclusive school community where students feel heard and understood.

Health, wellness, and social-emotional competence are supported in curricula, school-wide programs, and related policies.

Equity is deeply embedded in Elwood’s fabric, ensuring that all students have opportunities to thrive. The school offers a diverse range of clubs, sports, and activities that cater to the varied interests of its students. This commitment to inclusivity encourages broad participation, allowing students to explore their passions, develop new skills, and cultivate a sense of belonging, irrespective of their background or prior experiences.