This report highlights the importance of addressing the unique set of needs of middle-level students. The struggle over structuring and content of middle-level education--the K-8 versus middle-school/junior-high argument--mirrors to a considerable extent the broader recurring battle of traditionalism versus progressivism. There are few empirical studies on what constitutes the "best practices" for middle-level configuration. This question relates to a complex set of variables that deserve further study. Thus, the author recommends a longitudinal study to look at what configuration best serves middle-level students in the state of Hawai'i. This study provides extensive evidence that small schools have major benefits over large ones, particularly in promoting higher attendance and graduation rates; higher levels of academic achievement; fewer students dropping out; and a stronger sense of connectedness. The study also indicates that creating a stronger sense of community meets the social and psychological development needs of middle-level students. Thus, it appears that the research would strongly recommend downsizing Hawai'i's middle schools and working to create programs that encourage a stronger sense of community. It is these efforts, that work to transform the social relationships among children, that will most benefit middle-level students--regardless of their school configuration. Appended are: (1) Hawai'i Charter School Middle-Level Configuration; and (2) Hawai'i Middle-School Disciplinary Actions. (Contains 2 tables and 24 footnotes.)