As you may be aware, Gainesville Middle School teachers and administrators have been involved in a study evaluating their instructional program. Much research has been done, visitations to exemplary middle school programs made, and intensive dialogue held by school staff. As a result, Gainesville Middle will be implementing ‘Programs of Choice,’ an innovative instructional delivery model, for all students in the fall of 2002.

Our students come to school with different strengths, challenges and areas of interest. By providing a choice of instructional areas of focus, the diversity of student interests will be optimally met and their individual talents best nurtured. Programs of Choice will enable students and parents to select a learning environment aligned with the individual student’s style of learning and area of interest. Motivation to learn, most especially among adolescents, is directly related to increased academic achievement in school. By providing a choice of program content emphasis, student interest in learning and commitment to academic achievement will flourish.

A variety of programs are currently being developed by Gainesville Middle School staff. The differing areas of program focus are being driven by student interest and teacher expertise and knowledge, those elements which produce an excitement for teaching and learning. Prior to the winter holidays, you will be receiving a description of each program so that you may make an informed decision. All written communications will be provided in both English and Spanish.

Below is a timeline sharing the steps that will be taken to inform you about the programs and the procedure for making a choice.

November 26, 2001	Instructional Steering Committee Meeting
December 3, 2001	Detailed description of the ‘Programs of Choice’ mailed to parents.
December 14, 2001	Individual program brochures made available
January 10, 2002	Letter to parents with public forum dates
January 15, 2002	Information forum at Fair Street Elementary School – 6:00 p.m
January 17, 2002	Information forum at Gainesville Middle School – 8:15 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
January 21, 2002	Preliminary Report on Programs of Choice/Forums to the Board of Education
February 18, 2002	Final Report to the Board on GMS Programs of Choice Implementation
February 26, 2002	Information forum at Gainesville Middle School – 6:30 p.m.
March 19, 2002	Information forum at Gainesville Middle School – 6:30 p.m.
March 29, 2002	Deadline for Submitting Choice Request Forms

We are excited about the future for students at Gainesville Middle School. Positive change has been, and will continue to be, the foundation of excellence upon which the Gainesville City School System continues to build.