At Meridian Middle School (MMS), every student gets the support they need to succeed. Through the school’s What I Need (WIN) program, students are given dedicated time to tackle their individual
challenges, whether it’s mastering a math concept or strengthening reading skills. This personalized approach ensures that no student falls behind, providing targeted help exactly where it’s needed.
IN support focuses on reading and math. English Language Arts (ELA) and social studies teachers work together to identify students who need extra help with reading skills, while math teachers collaborate with science teachers to provide math focused support. This collaborative approach allows teachers to meet students’ needs more effectively across subjects. Assistant Principal Jill Hammack commended the collaboration between teachers, saying it has been integral to the success of the program.
“The teamwork between teachers is impressive. It ensures that students get the specific support they need to succeed,” Hammack said.
A prime example of this collaboration is between 7th grade teachers Megan Wolven and Frank McGowan. Once students are identified for extra help, they are assigned to different teachers who provide targeted support. Teachers continuously review student progress to assess current levels and determine the next steps for improvement. This ongoing evaluation ensures that each student
receives meaningful, personalized support.
“WIN may seem ‘reactive’ because it focuses on filling the gaps in students’ learning. However, it is also ‘proactive’ because it identifies students’ needs early and groups them accordingly to prevent gaps from widening,” McGowan said.
During WIN time, students can work in small groups or one-on-one with a teacher, providing more individualized attention. This setup helps students feel more confident and engaged in their learning.
WIN time not only promotes academic growth but also boosts students’ confidence by addressing their unique needs. With this targeted support, MMS creates a more effective and supportive learning environment for all students.