District outlines alternative junior‑high model aimed at reengaging struggling 7th–9th graders

District administrators presented a vision for a new junior high innovation program intended to serve students in grades seven through nine who struggle in traditional settings and to provide earlier intervention than alternative high school placements.

Speakers included a junior high administrator and Mr. Santiago, who described the model as an alternative pathway that blends grade levels and course content, emphasizes social‑emotional learning (SEL), and uses smaller classes and staff who specialize in working with struggling learners. The program will mix students across grade‑level content (for example, seventh and eighth graders in an English 1 block) and focus on hands‑on engagement, trauma‑informed practices and stronger transitions to high school.

Administrators said the model draws from the district’s Gladiola High School success and is designed to create “hope and engagement” earlier in students’ school careers. The presentation said the district has hired teachers for the junior high program and is aligning curriculum, staffing and student pathways so that students who complete the program have a warm handoff to the high school or alternative high‑school pathways.

Board members asked about how mixed‑grade instruction will operate and whether students are coached in peer tutoring practices; presenters said peer teaching and cooperative strategies will be coached and that teachers plan to structure pairing and shared instruction. Presenters said they will continue to refine curriculum and build professional development for staff before the program begins.

Administrators said further details on enrollment, evaluation and operational logistics will be provided in future updates to the board as planning continues.