Decatur Middle Schools Re-Structure

Two Decatur middle schools are re-structuring to save their schools after not meeting "no child left behind" standards for the past five years. For Thomas Jefferson and Stephen Decatur middle schools these will be some big changes to get their test scores up.
    Both middle schools have missed adequate yearly progress for five years and this year they are required to make some changes. The focus will be improving attendance and helping students with learning disabilities.
    The schools are changing to a block schedule...Which means longer class periods. Also adding an attendance advocate who will push parents to get their kids in class.
    Some parents like Judi Sturgell say they're ready for the change,  "I  think it's important for the parents to be aware of what the rules are and what the policies are so that we can help the district meet that goal."
    Her son Dylan is thinking a little differently, "I like the longer classes idea especially cause of P-E I like P-E."
     It's not just P-E the kids will be going to language arts and math classes everyday. The schools are also moving to a co-teaching approach. Meaning two teachers in all core classes. Both schools will extend the school day by 15 minutes. The schools will also be monitored by the district. Meaning thoughout the year the superintendent plans to drop in and check on how the classes are going.