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In an exciting move aimed at enhancing the quality of middle-level education in Arizona, Dr. Robert Caplinger, an advocate for educational excellence, has been elected as the inaugural State Director for the Arizona Schools to Watch Program.
Schools to Watch (STW) is an initiative of the National Forum that recognizes outstanding middle-grades schools across the country. Through a rigorous evaluation process, schools are identified for their practices in academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational structures.
Dr. Caplinger, along with other middle grades administrators, teachers, and an esteemed group of education faculty from the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and Grand Canyon University, are in the final stages of establishing the Arizona Association for Middle Level Education (AzAMLE). This will be a state affiliate organization of the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE).
"I am looking forward to leading the Schools to Watch Program in Arizona and being a part of AzAMLE's mission to elevate middle-level education in our state," says Dr. Caplinger. "The collaboration with institutions like the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University signifies a commitment to excellence and innovation in education."
“Expanding the reach of Schools to Watch is central to our work,” says Cathy Perry, Executive Director of the National Forum. “Arizona joins 17 other states where middle schools have been transformed through the program. We’re thrilled to have Robert represent the National Forum and Schools to Watch in Arizona as well as serve as an ambassador and liaison for AMLE, our long-time partner in promoting middle-grades improvement.”
Educators, administrators, and stakeholders are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates as AzAMLE prepares to roll out its initiatives, including introducing the Schools to Watch Program in Arizona.
The National Forum is an alliance of educators, researchers, national associations, and officers of professional organizations and foundations dedicated to improving education in the middle grades.