1.  What is the main idea of Michael Benjamin's commentary?

2.  Read the two letters to the editor regarding Mr. Benjamin's commentary below.  What do you think of each letter? (Does the writer make a valid point? Do you agree with his/her perspective?)

"I have taught grades 6-8 for the past nine years in a Catholic school in Yonkers.  Many of the older students have younger siblings in the school, and they walk together, holding hands, to and from school every day.  The older students help with the younger ones during lunchtime, recess and fire drills.  It helps the older students learn a sense of responsibility for the well-being of those younger and weaker than themselves.  It also lends a family atmosphere to the school which, sadly, some of the students lack in their home life..."

Jack Ciotti, Ossining, NY

"Benjamin is completely correct about returning to the K-through-8 model that has been so successful in charter and Catholic schools.  You can’t argue with success -- unless you’re on the left, and then the well-being of the city’s students is nothing compared to the importance of pushing an agenda.

I went to junior high in Staten Island in the 1970s, and it was hellish. I know many others who feel the same way.  I join with Benjamin in urging the chancellor “to spare future generations the middle-school nightmare.”

Mary Nasta, Frenchtown, NJ

3.  What do you think of the idea of making schools K-8 and 9-12?  Explain your answer. (If you did not attend a middle school yourself, ask a parent or friend who did to share his/her perspective with you.)