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

(a) the program will comprise the work of grades 7 through 9 or their equivalents, as defined in 20-6-501 (2) (a) , MCA;

(b) the junior high 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, which is under the overall direction of a single administrative leadership and which is easily identifiable as a unique school unit;

(c) sufficient evidence is provided that, if established, the junior high school can meet state accreditation standards for junior high schools 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 junior high school.