The Middle Grades Research Journal (MGRJ) is a peer-refereed journal that publishes original empirical and theoretical studies focused on middle grades education. All studies must include substantial linkage to the literature base in middle grades education, young adolescent development, and/or teaching and learning environments suitable to students during the middle grade years. (Studies using a sample of students or teachers from the middle grades but with no linkage to middle grades literature are unlikely to be acceptable for publication.) Considering that significant research in the middle grades may be approached in a variety of ways, MGRJ publishes research studies employing a range of paradigms and methodologies, including, but not limited to quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies; historical research; case studies; single subject designs; and studies employing large-scale data bases.