Riding the line: a qualitative exploration of a mid-range school

This research draws on conversations with teachers at a mid-range school in San Diego County. An exploration of the No Child Left Behind Act of2001 and its impact on teachers produced a greater understanding of how teachers not only interpret such reforms, but how they apply to their everyday lives. An examination of schools at a mid-range is made and conclusions are drawn as to how educational practices such as creating community, looping and the village system all positively influences this mid-range school. Finally, this research offers a critical perspective on how studying mid-range schools can bring about a greater understanding of the challenges teachers face in the outcome-based reform era. Keywords: Mid-range Standards Outcome-based Reform No Child Left Behind Teachers' Experiences Standardized Tests