Executive Director's Note

Betty Edwards

When I became

the executive director of National Middle School Association, I moved to Columbus, Ohio, from New Hampshire—a state known not only for having the first presidential primary and a "Live Free or Die" state motto, but also for its mountains and skiing, lakes (and their accompanying summer "camps"), and trees. Oh, those glorious trees. This time of the year the trees are ablaze with vibrant hues so beautiful they can take your breath away. And the roadways are crushed with what are lovingly called Leaf Peepers—those individuals who drive from miles around to gaze at the trees.

Did you know that National Middle School Association has its own tree just as worthy of amazement: our tree of children? If you look carefully at the NMSA logo, you will notice that it is not just a tree of learning and growth, but rather each branch ends with the face of a young adolescent. The integration of the two visuals of a tree and young adolescents brings to mind a wealth of analogies: children's growth bending in the wind, supporting healthy growth through strong roots and foundations, and collaborating to serve as one voice and make a larger impact.

These same beliefs are the foundation for October's Month of the Young Adolescent—a collaboration of a diversified group of international organizations focused on the following critical issues:

• The importance of parents being knowledgeable about young adolescents and being actively involved in their lives
• The understanding that healthy bodies plus healthy minds equal healthy young adolescents
• The realization that the education young adolescents experience during this formative period of life will, in large measure, determine the future for all citizens
• The knowledge that every young adolescent should have the opportunity to pursue his or her dreams and aspirations, and post-secondary education should be a possibility for all.

Month of the Young Adolescent is about highlighting the needs for each individual child as well as underscoring the critical need for adults to support children in their education and in their physical, social, and emotional growth. Just as a tree is not made up of only one branch, the growth of healthy young adolescents is not one-dimensional. Young adolescents are complicated individuals who need feeding and nurturing to develop healthy bodies and minds, and they need guidance to grow in the right direction—just like plants need support wires. When teachers, parents, and community agencies work together, the positive impact on students is enhanced.

We also have our own form of Leaf Peepers—those individuals who are constantly amazed by the uniqueness and wonders of young adolescents. However, our Leaf Peepers do more than just look; they take action to make the lives of young adolescents better and to help them grow into productive, healthy individuals. Just as each child makes a difference, you can make a difference in the lives of all the children with whom you interact. But we don't ask you to do it alone.

While you support your students on a daily basis, take advantage of Month of the Young Adolescent to highlight both the importance of education for young adolescents and the need for the collaboration of many to support the growth of all children. Use the resources provided by NMSA or ideas that you generate to bring together your school's staff members, parent organizations, and community groups to support the growth and development of these young people.

Go to the NMSA Web site (www.nmsa.org/moya) to find a list of ideas for schools and communities to use, information on shadowing, and activities other schools and communities have implemented as part of their focus on Month of the Young Adolescent. At this same site, you can view some of the artwork submitted by young adolescents. These pieces provide insights into their skills and thoughts. This year, there also will be an opportunity for students to submit a podcast, which provides a different avenue for students to express their thoughts and creativity. Be sure to let us know what your school does this year to celebrate Month of the Young Adolescent.

Your daily work in your schools and with Month of the Young Adolescent will allow you to view vistas more breathtaking than the reds, oranges, and russets of fall foliage. The smiles of healthy children on their way to becoming positive, productive adults will be a reminder of why you are a middle level educator.