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Girls in the Middle: Working to Succeed in School

Middle schools are in a position to empower girls through educational reforms that directly address issues of gender equity. This study, commissioned by the American Association of University Women Education Foundation, reports on research in six middle schools across the country. Researchers examined how girls from diverse backgrounds negotiate school. They identify three strategies that girls use: Speaking Out, Doing School, and Crossing Borders. Parents, teachers, and administrators need to recognize these strategies and provide more leadership opportunities and more positive role models for girls. The authors offer recommendations for achieving gender equity in all middle schools.