Creating a Family-Like Ninth-Grade Environment Through Interdisciplinary Teaming

Abstract

This qualitative multisite case study examined how three high schools within one large urban district supported ninth-grade students’ needs through interdisciplinary teaming. Data collected during the 2006-2007 school year included observations, interviews, and archival evidence of 67 participants. Findings suggest teacher communication as a result of teaming may provide the teacher support and individualized student attention necessary to foster a family-like ninth-grade environment that meets student and teacher needs. School personnel reported more benefits of teaming for teachers and students than students did. Issues with implementation limited how well teaming was able to meet student needs.