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Jefferson Middle School
Persell Middle School
Washington Middle School

Middle Level Program

Greetings,

As Director of Middle Schools for the Jamestown Public School District I want to welcome you to our district’s outstanding website and to our middle schools in general. Our school district has three middle schools, each with their own link through this website. The three schools are Jefferson Middle, Washington Middle and Persell Middle. While each school has their own unique characteristics, the district established some common beliefs about Middle Schools and Middle School students. These beliefs were developed collaboratively by our Middle School Task Force, a group of teachers, parents, administrators and community members who met over an eighteen month period to help us re-establish our commitment to the schooling of young adolescents. These beliefs are listed below.

Beliefs About Middle Schools

The Jamestown Middle Schools must be safe, nurturing, motivating, and focused on student’s best interests. The Jamestown Middle Schools need to provide a structured, academically rigorous curriculum that encourages positive decision-making, individual growth and multiple avenues of expression. The Jamestown Middle Schools must foster meaningful relationships with parents and community in order to support students becoming emotionally healthy and positive social members of our community.

Beliefs About Middle School Students

Middle school students develop at different social, emotional, physical and cognitive rates. Middle school students need high quality academic programs that provide structure and consistency, as well as opportunities for expression, self- discovery, and physical activity. Middle school students seek acceptance and meaningful experiences in school, home and community. Middle school students need encouragement, direction, and support from caring adults as they strive for both academic and personal success.

Given these beliefs, it is expected that both you and your child will have a positive and productive experience in our middle schools. For questions or concerns regarding your child’s experience or our middle school programs in general, you may contact the school directly or you may contact me via phone or e-mail at the addresses below.


Mike McElrath, Ph. D.
Director of Middle Level Education
Phone: 716-483-4349

links to professional organizations:
The National Middle School Association
The New York State Middle School Association

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