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NMSA/AMLE's position paper This We Believe has come to be recognized as the best articulation of the middle school concept, the accepted standard. But inevitably, a position paper speaks in visionary generalizations; to move these ideals into actual practice is a very demanding task, but one that has to be undertaken if needed and fundamental changes are to be made. This resource will help in the process. It includes: A DVD of "in action" scenarios. These vignettes from eight real schools containing middle grades located throughout the United States demonstrate how some of the key characteristics have been brought to life. Chapters on each of the characteristics described in This We Believe, elaborating on them in ways that help one to understand how schools practicing these characteristics would operate. An update on current efforts in middle level education reform. A thoughtful consideration of lessons learned from 32 years of advocacy. Altogether This We Believe in Action is a comprehensive resource, the tool we have been waiting for to assist middle level schools in implementing the characteristics of This We Believe. Every middle school should have a copy, not just to be read, but to use in site-based professional development activities.