There is a growing body of evidence that a separate maturation level exists for youngsters in the middle school years. Research data indicate that middle school youth possess similar physical, social, mental, and emotional characteristics. A creative development of middle school programs is clearly needed. Various facets of middle school programs…

"Transescents" -- the prefix "trans" meaning "to go across" and the suffix "escent" meaning "to become something" -- are young people in transition from childhood to adolescence. The middle school organization presents educators with an opportunity for improved educational processes uniquely suited to students of this age group. Transescents are…