MATTAWAN – The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) announced that Mattawan Middle School is one of only 11 schools nationwide to receive the Association of Middle Level Education (AMLE) Schools of Distinction Award for 2023. AMLE’s Schools of Distinction program both recognize exemplary schools while supporting them through a process of strategic vision setting to help foster ongoing growth and success.
The program’s evaluation criteria are anchored in AMLE’s landmark position paper on best practice in the middle grades, The Successful Middle School: This We Believe, now in its fifth edition and 41st year of publication.
Mattawan Middle School completed a rigorous review process that measured their implementation of middle grades best practice and continuous improvement plans. After advancing from the initial application, schools underwent a series of stakeholder interviews that included the perspectives of staff, students, and families.
“It is a privilege to recognize this year’s Schools of Distinction. They are truly worthy of this honor and I’m excited for AMLE to be able to share their stories,” said Stephanie
Simpson, CEO of AMLE, “Through this program we are building a network of educators committed to the success of young adolescents that can learn from and support each other.” Mattawan Middle School will be recognized and present on their exemplary practices live at AMLE50: The 50th Annual Conference for Middle Level Education this
November in National Harbor, Maryland.
“This is an incredible achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication that everyone puts forth every day to ensure that your students receive the best possible education and experience,” said Randy Fleenor, Superintendent of Mattawan Consolidated School. “The unwavering commitment to excellence and tireless efforts of our middle school team make Mattawan Middle School a special place for students to learn and grow. I am so proud to be a part of a community, in all our buildings and departments, that values education and the success of its students,” said Fleenor.
AMLE recognizes schools that meet the Schools of Distinction criteria on an annual basis.
The program is open to any school that educates 10–15-year-old students. The AMLE website contains more information about AMLE Schools of Distinction and The Successful Middle School Program.