Close the Middle School Achievement Gap
Research-backed strategies
Wendell Dorsey helps district and school leaders understand why the academic gap among cultural subgroups widens in grades 6–8 — and how a data-first, leadership-centered approach can stop it. Start by listening to concise, evidence-driven podcast episodes.
The Problem: Middle School Gaps
Why this stage matters
In many districts the academic gap among cultural subgroups becomes most pronounced in grades 6–8. Leaders recognize the issue, but persistent systemic drivers — policy, instructional structures, and uneven supports — keep outcomes from improving.
- Grades 6–8 gap
- Cultural subgroup impact
- Policy and practice gaps
Featured Episode — Start Here
15–30 minute insights
A short, evidence-focused episode that frames the problem and models the kind of strategic thinking Wendell uses in paid programs. Serves as the best first listen for decision-makers pressed for time.
Podcast Library
All episodes, interviews, and mini-casts
A searchable and filterable archive of short solo episodes and longer interviews with district and state leaders. Designed for leaders who need focused, research-oriented conversations they can use to brief teams.
Recent episodes
- Episode 42 — Instructional Coherence (28 min)
- Episode 39 — Data That Guides Decisions (18 min)
- Episode 35 — Middle Grades Transitions (15 min)
Courses & Training
Tiered options for system leaders
Paid courses and training are designed for leaders ready to act — from self-paced research walk-throughs to cohort-based implementation programs and in-person facilitation. Each tier builds from evidence to practical application.
- Self-paced courses
- Cohort training
- On-site facilitation
Training Options & Tiers
Designed for organizational readiness
Foundations (Self-paced)
Short modules focused on diagnosis, evidence review, and an initial implementation checklist for middle grades.
Accelerator (Cohort)
Guided cohort with live workshops, peer learning, and district-level action plans to begin narrowing subgroup gaps.
Embedded Support
On-site facilitation and custom consulting for districts pursuing measurable change across grades 6–8.
How It Works — A Simple Path
From listening to organizational change
Listen & Learn
Short episodes introduce the problem and show evidence-based questions leaders should ask. Use episodes to brief teams or justify next steps internally.
Assess & Plan
Use diagnostic tools and targeted coaching to convert insights into a concrete plan that targets grades 6–8 and specific cultural subgroup needs.
Implement & Measure
Apply targeted interventions, track outcomes, and scale what works. Courses and facilitation focus on measurable gains in academic performance.
Trusted by Educators and Leaders
Voices from the field
Short testimonials from district leaders and principals who used Wendell’s courses to sharpen plans and secure buy-in.
Example Endorsements - Replaced With Actual
“Wendell’s framework helped our leadership team focus on the right metrics — we saw clear gains in quarter-over-quarter performance.” — District Director, Mid-Atlantic
“Concise, evidence-driven, and immediately useful. The cohort workshop produced an actionable plan we could implement next term.” — Middle School Principal
“The diagnostics were the missing piece. The training directly informed policy changes that supported our teachers.” — Deputy Superintendent
Proven Impact Metrics
Quantifiable outcomes
Clear, trackable metrics that show why leaders invest in research-informed training and facilitation.
32%
Average gain in target subgroup grades
87%
Leader satisfaction rating
24
Districts engaged nationwide
15+
Years of field experience
Example Stats - Replaced With Actual or Removed
About Wendell Dorsey
Experience, credentials, and focus
Wendell Dorsey is a licensed educational leader with a doctorate in educational leadership and 15+ years working with districts to close middle grades achievement gaps. He pairs research with pragmatic implementation strategies for system-level change.
- Doctorate in Educational Leadership
- 15+ years in PK–12 leadership
- District consulting & facilitation
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