(1) In considering a request for approval to open a middle school, the Superintendent of Public Instruction shall utilize the criteria set forth below:

(a) the program must comprise the work of grades 4 through 8 or any combination thereof, as defined in 20-6-501 (1) , MCA;

(b) the middle school must be organized and administered to provide a cohesive unit within the educational system of the school district. A cohesive unit shall be interpreted as a portion of a school system which is located in one area of the school facilities, is under the overall direction of a single administrative leadership, and is easily identifiable as a unique school unit;

(c) sufficient evidence must be provided that, if established, the middle school can meet state accreditation standards for middle schools adopted as set forth in Title 10, chapter 55 by the Board of Public Education;

(d) other factors may be taken into account which are deemed reasonable and appropriate to consider in establishment of a middle school.