As more and more middle school students come to the classroom with no real, stable connections outside the school setting, it is increasingly important for educators to reach out to them in a variety of ways. This paper addresses that need by offering educators suggestions in the following five areas: (1) comprehending the unique characteristics and needs of young adolescents; (2) providing an accepting climate; (3) designing a curriculum and delivery system based on young adolescents' characteristics and needs; (4) connecting with their parents; and (5) sharing with the students an attitude of caring and compassion. Schools need to be responsive to adolescents' developmental needs, such as the need for diversity, competence and achievement, and for positive interaction with peers and adults. The school environment needs to be a welcoming, supportive, and secure place. The curriculum to achieve such goals would be characterized by the active and cooperative involvement of learners and would use integrated and interdisciplinary themes. Ways that educators can increase parental involvement in the schools are presented and various ideas to think about are outlined. The paper concludes by noting the importance of dealing with the whole child, by addressing social-emotional development as well as intellectual development. (TJQ)