Early adolescence is a time of many physical, mental, emotional, and social changes. Current research indicates that middle school students need classroom environments that are both academically challenging and supportive of students academic development (Anderman, Patrick, Hruda, & Linnenbrink, 2002; Turner et al., 2002). Middle school students learn best in learner-centered classrooms that involve higher-order thinking, positive relations, personal independence, and instruction adapted to their individual needs. At this level, students are more capable of directing their cognitive processes, using strategies when learning something new. It is at this time that students develop note-taking and organizational skills, and learn how to distinguish between important and unimportant information, develop good summaries, and analyze their comprehension of content. Academics, sports, extracurricular activities and service to the community are emphasized at this level, preparing the students for high school.