Indiana Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Illinois | Indiana | Kentucky | Michigan | Missouri New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Ohio | Oregon | Pennsylvania | South Carolina | Texas | Utah | Virginia State Director Susie Highley IMLEA_ED@iasp.org Participating Organizations Indiana Association of School Principals Indiana Middle Level Education Association 11025 E. 25th Street Indianapolis, IN 46229 317-759-4344 Email: IMLEA_ED@iasp.org State Website: https://imlea.org Joined National STW Program in 2009 Schools to Watch Application 2026 Application Instructions Indiana Schools to Watch Benjamin Franklin Middle School (2019, 2023) Cascade Middle School (2024) Center for Inquiry School 84 (2018, 2023) Christel House Academy South (2011) East Central Middle School (2018) East Washington Middle School (2019) Hebron Middle School (2012, 2022) Jac-Cen-Del Jr Sr High School (2018) Lebanon Middle School (2015) Northridge Middle School (2015, 2023) Plainfield Community Middle School (2023) Riverside Intermediate School Plymouth (2012, 2022) Rochester Middle School (2017, 2020, 2023) Shelbyville Middle School (2014, 2020) South Ripley Jr. High School (2016) Thomas Jefferson Middle School (2011, 2023) Triton Central Middle School (2010, 2020) Tri-West Middle School (2023, 2020, 2023) School Profiles Coming Soon

2017-2018 Hellstern Middle School 2017-2018 SCHOOL STATISTICS Designated in 2012 Re-Designated in 2018,2018 Community Suze -Suburban School Enrollment - 968 Grade Levels - 6, 7 School Calendar - Traditional Free and Reduced Lunch 50% English Learners 25% Students With Disabilities 9% Demographics Hispanic 30% White 58% African American 2% Asian <1% Native American 1% Pacific Islander 7% Filipino 0% Two or More 0% Other 0% School Characteristics and Replicable Practices Academic Excellence Ranked in top 20 schools in state Top 5 in region Science teachers writing and submitting NGSS lessons at the national level Use of flexible scheduling to meet the needs of students Personalized Learning Plans developed for each student Above state and national norms in all tested subjects Goal Setting, Rigor Matrix, Extensions, Growth Mindset Developmental Responsiveness Advisory Program called Habitudes Service learning projects School garden Action-based learning and flexible seating Social Equity Tutoring available to all students Regrouping and point-in-time remediation Extensions such as GT, EAST, Honors Challenge Inclusion model in place Different cultures valued through clubs, celebrations, performances, etc. Daily protected advisory time Student-led conferences (attended by 93% of families) Organizational Support Multi-tiered Response to Intervention in place Highly productive Professional Learning Communities (Teams and Departments) Principal in year 3 of Master Principal Academy Administrative support for teacher professional development

South Carolina Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Illinois | Indiana | Kentucky | Michigan | Missouri New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Ohio | Oregon | Pennsylvania | South Carolina | Texas | Utah | Virginia State Director David McDonald, Ph.D. dmcdonald@greenville.k12.sc.us Participating Organizations South Carolina Association for Middle-Level Education 225 Gardenwalk Drive West Columbia, SC 29170 Phone: 803-261-6117 E-mail: tina.jamison@scamle.org State Website: www.scamle.org Joined National STW Program in 2006 Schools to Watch Application 2026 Application Instructions South Carolina Schools to Watch Batesburg-Leesville Middle School (2020, 2023) Beck International Academy (2020, 2023) Blue Ridge Middle School (2023) Blythewood Middle School (2008, 2011, 2014, 2017, 2020, 2023) Camden Middle School (2019, 2022, 2025) Campobello Gramling School (2014, 2017, 2020, 2023) Carolina Springs Middle School (2023) Castle Heights Middle School (2011, 2014, 2017, 2020, 2023) CE Williams Middle School (2018) Chapin Middle (2017, 2020, 2023) College Park Middle School (2011, 2015, 2017, 2020) Crayton Middle School (2017, 2020, 2023) Cyril B Busbee Middle School (2021, 2024) Dent Middle School (2021, 2024) Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School (2022, 2025) Dutchman Creek Middle School (2013, 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025) Greenville Middle Academy (2024) H.E. McCracken Middle School (2015, 2018, 2023) Hand Middle School (2024) Landrum Middle School (2015, 2018, 2021, 2024) League Academy for Communication Arts (2011, 2015, 2017, 2020, 2023) Leavelle McCampbell Middle School (2023) Leslie M. Stover Middle School (2022, 2025) Lugoff-Elgin Middle School (2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025) Mabry Middle School (2011, 2014, 2017, 2021, 2024) Mid-Carolina Middle School (2017, 2020, 2023) Muller Road Middle (2020, 2023) New Ellenton STEAM Middle School (2024) North Central Middle School (2023) Northwest Middle School (2021, 2024) Northwood Middle School (2022, 2025) Palmetto Middle School (2008, 2011, 2014, 2017, 2020, 2023) R. H. Fulmer Middle School (2012, 2015, 2018, 2021, 2024) Ralph Chandler Middle (2021, 2024) Riverside Middle School (2019, 2023) Royal Live Oaks Middle School (2025) Sevier Middle School (2020, 2023) South Middle School (2013, 2017, 2019) Springfield Middle School (2016, 2019, 2022, 2025) St. James Middle School (2015, 2018, 2022, 2024) Summit Parkways Middle School (2025) Woodmont Middle School (2024) School Profiles Coming Soon

2025 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2023 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2021 Virtual Celebrations Zoom 2018 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2016 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2014 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2012 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2024 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2022 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2019 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2017 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2015 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2013 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2011 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. Past Events Check out our upcoming events View

Forum Board Cathy Tomon President Read Bio Martinrex Kedziora Past President Read Bio Ran Barnes Middle Grades Practitioner Read Bio David McDonald Treasurer Read Bio Leti Menchaca Advocacy Chair Read Bio Scott Steele STW State Director Read Bio David Vroman Fidelity Committee Chair Read Bio Jonathan Rohloff Superintendent Read Bio Darryl Conner Middle-Grades Principal Read Bio John Dowd Business Partner Read Bio Lekia Jones Member-at-Large Read Bio Mychael Willon Member-At-Large Read Bio Winton Buddington Member-At-Large Read Bio Cathy Perry Executive Director Read Bio

Attend the National Schools to Watch conference in June, in Washington D.C. Conference Schedule | Conference Rates | Volunteer | Hotel Information | Hill Visits | Sessions | Sponsor/Exhibit | FAQ Join us at the 2025 National Schools to Watch Conference , a one-of-a-kind event bringing together passionate middle-level educators from across the nation. This conference is rooted in the Schools to Watch® (STW) model, showcasing specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. With inspiring keynote speakers, hands-on sessions, and peer-led learning opportunities, this event is designed to foster growth, connections, and inspiration. We invite you to be part of this unique journey of professional development and celebration! Register Today! Featured Speakers Rochelle Wilson With over a decade of experience as a middle school educator, Rochelle transitioned into a consultant, author, and nonprofit leader, driven by her passion for creating impactful learning environments. Her work empowers educators to foster spaces where students thrive, feel heard, and have a voice. In her keynote, From Educator to Changemaker: My Journey to Impacting the Next Generation , Rochelle will share her personal journey, innovative mentorship strategies, and insights on turning challenges into growth opportunities. Jonathan Alsheimer Jonathan is a dynamic middle school teacher, bestselling author, and international keynote speaker known for his electrifying energy and innovative approach. As the author of NEXT LEVEL TEACHING and School of Engagement —both Amazon #1 new releases—he’s inspired educators and students to break barriers and aim higher. Jonathan’s impact extends beyond the classroom with partnerships that empower students. From working with UFC fighters, celebrities, and brands to launching the national “A Rae of Hope” movement in over 15 states, his work transforms schools and communities. He’s also led anti-bullying campaigns and leadership initiatives, proving his motto: “Game-changing is not a cliché—it’s a way of life!” Dr. Martinrex Kedziora Color Me Creative and Call Me Brilliant What does it truly mean to make someone feel like they matter? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking session, Dr. Kedziora, National Forum Board President, shares his personal journey through a lifetime in education, highlighting how compassion, creativity, and connection can transform lives. "Color Me Creative and Call Me Brilliant" invites participants to reflect on the power of belonging and self-worth, especially for those who may not always feel seen or celebrated. More than a presentation, this is a call to action: to lead with heart, to see brilliance in every learner, and to understand that gratitude is more than a simple “thank you”—it’s a practice of acknowledgment and purpose. Conference Schedule Wednesday, June 25 Conference Registration 4:00 - 7:00 pm Thursday, June 26 Conference Registration / Coffee: 7:30 am Welcome / Parade of States / STW Awards Redesignation Level 6-7: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:30 - 10:30 am State Meet-ups: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 1: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 2: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards - New Schools: 3:30 - 5:00 pm Friday, June 27 Conference Registration / Coffee: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:00 - 10:30 am Session 3: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 4: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 5: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 - 4:15 pm Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 - 6:00 pm Saturday, June 28 Continental Breakfast: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:00 - 11:00 am Schedule is subject to change. SCHOOLS TO WATCH AWARD CELEBRATIONS Bring your team, dress to the nines, and celebrate your success! STW Celebration Schedule Thursday, June 26 Redesignation Level 6-7: 8:30 am New Schools: 3:30 pm Friday, June 27 Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 pm Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 pm Schedule is subject to change. Conference Sponsors Friday Keynote Speaker Sponsor nXu partners with schools and youth organizations through a flexible 6-part model focused on purpose, durable skills, and wellness. Our offerings align with the key steps schools follow when adopting new programs, ensuring seamless integration and impact. Table Sponsor Thriving YOUniversity empowers the extraordinary in individuals, schools, and organizations through experiential learning, professional development, keynotes, resources, and programs to sustain a positive culture. Table Sponsor eReflect is an educational technology company that is committed to promoting Digital Equity. We have developed Typesy, a comprehensive learning platform that is aligned with educational standards and focuses on essential skills such as typing, computer skills, literacy, and a transdisciplinary approach. With Typesy, we aim to provide a platform that empowers learners to acquire digital literacy and proficiency and to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age. Photo Booth Sponsor Great Falls Travel , an educator-owned and operated travel company, specializes in customized educational tours for students. Our experienced team of educators designs itineraries aligned with educational goals, focusing on destinations with rich learning opportunities. We handle all trip details, prioritizing safety, engagement, and unique experiences. Our commitment to memorable, educational travel sets us apart. Table Sponsor These free, teacher-created, comprehensive, and ready-made lessons are designed to shape your students into the next generation of leaders. By integrating Medal of Honor Recipients’ and Citizen Honors Awardees' stories into engaging lessons, CDP empowers students to: Build strong character. Develop leadership skills. Become active citizens. Embrace the spirit of service. Become a Conference Sponsor Hill Visits DIY Guide is Available Advocacy is a critical component of education policy and practice, and we want to help you make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. With our DIY Visit Guide , you can schedule and prepare for a meeting with your Senator or Representative during the National Schools to Watch Conference. Download it now and get ready to make an impact. Download Guide Early Bird Extended! Register before March 15, 2025 Schools to Watch: $449 per person Non-STW: $469 Standard Rate Register between March 15, 2025 and May 19, 2025 Schools to Watch: $499 per person Non-STW: $519 per person Don't Be Late! Register between May 20, 2025 and the day of the event Schools to Watch: $549 per person Non-STW: $569 per person Register Today! ALL ACTIVITIES TAKE PLACE AT: Crystal Gateway Marriott (not Crystal City) 1700 Richmond Hwy. Arlington, VA 22202 Special Room Rate: $269 pl us taxes & fees Make your hotel reservations online The Marriott will likely sell out at the conference rate. You may call the hotel to check on availability at the standard rate: 703-920-3230 There may be rooms available at nearby hotels. We recommend using Expedia or something similar. Here is a list of some local hotels: The Westin Crystal City Reagan National Airport : 703-486-1111 Hampton Inn & Suites Arlington Crystal City : 703-418-8181 Hilton Garden Inn Reagan National Airport : 703-892-1050 Embassy Suites by Hilton Crystal City National Airport : 703-979-9799 Crowne Plaza Crystal City-Washington, D.C. by IHG : 703-416-1600 Download Whova, the official conference app . Registered attendees can sign in using the email address used during registration. Schedule subject to change. Frequently asked questions Who should attend? ANYONE who is interested in learning from the best middle-level educators in the country. Why should I attend? There is not only one national conference created by middle level educators specifically designed for middle level educators ... but there is only ONE based on the Schools to Watch (STW) model! This one-of-a-kind event focuses on specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. The conference is organized around the following STW domains: Academic Excellence, Organizational Structures, Developmental Responsiveness, and Social Equity. What is Schools to Watch? Schools to Watch (STW) was designed by the National Forum. Criteria established by the Forum are used as the basis for the Schools to Watch Program, which focuses on school improvement efforts characterized by a continuous trajectory toward success. Get more information from your State Director (https://www.middlegradesforum.org/schools-to-watch)or contact us.(https://www.middlegradesforum.org/contact) What is included with registration? Two-and-a-half days of professional learning, STW award celebrations, keynote speakers, and one continental breakfast. What is the cancellation policy? ALL registrations are subject to the cancellation policy. Many conference-related fees are paid by the National Forum in advance, therefore, refunds will only be processed as follows: Prior to April 25, 2026, 15% fee; April 26, 2026 - May 25, 2026, 50% fee; after May 25, 2026, no refund. A colleague may substitute to avoid cancellation penalties. To make a substitution please email Kris (mailto:kris@leagueofschools.org)with the new information. Registrations are not refundable 30 days prior to the event for any reason, including without limitation, no-show due to illness, acts of God, travel-related problems, acts of terrorism, public health emergencies or alerts, loss of employment, and/or duplicate purchases. National Forum will provide registration refunds and options in the event National Forum fully cancels the event. Can I attend if I am not from a Schools to Watch? Yes! All are welcome. Do you have sponsor or exhibit opportunities? Yes! Our carefully crafted sponsorship opportunities (https://cvent.me/bAM4wE)offer prime visibility and engagement. This is your chance to align your brand with excellence in education and leave a lasting impact on the Schools to Watch network. Become a member today! Join Up

Attend the National Schools to Watch conference in June, in Washington D.C. Featured Speakers | Hill Visits | Conference Schedule | Conference Rates | Hotel Information | Call for Presenters | Sponsor/Exhibit | FAQ Join us at the 2026 National Schools to Watch Conference , a one-of-a-kind event bringing together passionate middle-level educators from across the nation. This conference is rooted in the Schools to Watch (STW) model, showcasing specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. With inspiring keynote speakers, hands-on sessions, and peer-led learning opportunities, this event is designed to foster growth, connections, and inspiration. We invite you to be part of this unique journey of professional development and celebration! Register Today! Featured Speakers Jimmy Casas June 25 Jorge Valenzuela June 26 Joelle Hood June 27 Hill Visits DIY Guide Advocacy is a critical component of education policy and practice, and we want to help you make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. With our DIY Visit Guide , you can schedule and prepare for a meeting with your Senator or Representative during the National Schools to Watch Conference. Download it now and get ready to make an impact. Download Guide Conference Schedule Wednesday, June 24 Conference Registration 4:00 - 7:00 pm Thursday, June 25 Conference Registration/Coffee: 7:30 am General Session/Keynote: 8:30 - 10:30 am State Meet-ups: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 1: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 2: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards - New Schools: 3:30 - 5:00 pm Friday, June 26 Conference Registration/Coffee: 7:30 am General Session/Keynote: 8:30 - 10:30 am Session 3: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 4: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 5: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 - 4:15 pm Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 - 6:00 pm Saturday, June 27 Continental Breakfast: 8:30 am General Session/Keynote: 9:00 - 11:30 am Schedule is subject to change. SCHOOLS TO WATCH AWARD CELEBRATIONS Bring your team and celebrate your success! Early Bird Register before March 13, 2026 Schools to Watch: $469 per person Non-STW: $489 per person Standard Rate Register between March 14, 2026 and May 18, 2026 Schools to Watch: $519 per person Non-STW: $539 per person Don't Be Late! Register between May 19, 2026 and the day of the event Schools to Watch: $569 per person Non-STW: $589 per person ALL ACTIVITIES TAKE PLACE AT: Crystal Gateway Marriott (not Crystal City) 1700 Richmond Hwy. Arlington, VA 22202 Special Room Rate: $275 plus taxes & fees Make your hotel reservations online Register Today! Apply Today! CALL FOR PRESENTERS For many teams, one of the best parts of the Schools to Watch recognition is sharing something that YOUR school does exceptionally well. What program or initiative stands out? What are you most proud of? What can you teach other schools from across the country to replicate at their sites? Please submit a presentation idea that is interactive, useful, and fun! Resource sharing (of templates, example schedules, etc.) is encouraged. Sessions are 45 minutes in length. Frequently asked questions Who should attend? ANYONE who is interested in learning from the best middle-level educators in the country. Why should I attend? There is not only one national conference created by middle level educators specifically designed for middle level educators ... but there is only ONE based on the Schools to Watch (STW) model! This one-of-a-kind event focuses on specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. The conference is organized around the following STW domains: Academic Excellence, Organizational Structures, Developmental Responsiveness, and Social Equity. What is Schools to Watch? Schools to Watch (STW) was designed by the National Forum. Criteria established by the Forum are used as the basis for the Schools to Watch Program, which focuses on school improvement efforts characterized by a continuous trajectory toward success. Get more information from your State Director (https://www.middlegradesforum.org/schools-to-watch)or contact us.(https://www.middlegradesforum.org/contact) What is included with registration? Two-and-a-half days of professional learning, STW award celebrations, keynote speakers, and one continental breakfast. What is the cancellation policy? ALL registrations are subject to the cancellation policy. Many conference-related fees are paid by the National Forum in advance, therefore, refunds will only be processed as follows: Prior to April 25, 2026, 15% fee; April 26, 2026 - May 25, 2026, 50% fee; after May 25, 2026, no refund. A colleague may substitute to avoid cancellation penalties. To make a substitution please email Kris (mailto:kris@leagueofschools.org)with the new information. Registrations are not refundable 30 days prior to the event for any reason, including without limitation, no-show due to illness, acts of God, travel-related problems, acts of terrorism, public health emergencies or alerts, loss of employment, and/or duplicate purchases. National Forum will provide registration refunds and options in the event National Forum fully cancels the event. Can I attend if I am not from a Schools to Watch? Yes! All are welcome. Do you have sponsor or exhibit opportunities? Yes! Our carefully crafted sponsorship opportunities (https://cvent.me/bAM4wE)offer prime visibility and engagement. This is your chance to align your brand with excellence in education and leave a lasting impact on the Schools to Watch network. Become a member today! Join

Attend the National Schools to Watch conference in June, in Washington D.C. Featured Speakers | Conference Schedule | Hill Visits | Conference Rates | Registration | Hotel Information | FAQ Sessions | Sponsor/Exhibit Featured Speakers June 20th Lori L. Hayes has been described as relevant, real, and relational. Drawing from over 20 years in education, Lori uses her comedic personality to energize, inspire and challenge audiences across the globe. As a former classroom teacher, the wife of a high school administrator, and a mother, Lori "gets" students, parents, faculty, and administrators. She can't wait to help us RECHARGE ourselves and our organizations! Lori Hayes June 21st Choosing optimism —even in the face of tough challenges—helps restore the healthy interactions and positive relationships necessary for enacting real school change. Hear how teachers and school leaders can rekindle their individual and collective enthusiasm for a profession that has been progressively inundated with negativity. Be prepared to learn, to laugh, and to leave with a renewed sense of purpose. This is a fact-based, positive approach to “taking back our profession.” Research-based strategies, practical examples, and thought-provoking scenarios will be included. Purchase a ticket to Jack Berckemeyer's special session. Jack Berckemeyer June 22nd THE POWER OF POSITIVE LEADERSHIP: Leading with UNRELENTLESS HOPE and FOCUS It's not a secret that being a LEADER in education is extremely tough, especially over the last 3 years! The data clearly shows that teachers, administrators, and those in positions of leadership are burning out faster than ever before. With the growing amount of job expectations, compounded trauma amongst students and staff, and ever-pressing accountability measures, it is easy for one to become discouraged AND distracted. WE MUST REMEMBER, however, THAT THERE IS HOPE! Let's explore research, strategies, and tools to empower you to strategically forge ahead in a positive, purposed, and productive manner! There is POWER in POSITIVE LEADERSHIP! The BOSS Educator Register Today! Conference Schedule Thursday, June 20 Conference Registration / Coffee: 8:00 am Welcome / Parade of States: 9:00 am Keynote: 9:30 - 10:30 am State Meet-ups: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 1: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 2: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards - New Schools: 3:30 - 5:00 pm Friday, June 21 Conference Registration / Coffee: 8:00 am Keynote: 9:00 - 10:30 am Session 3: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 4: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 5: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards: Redesignation Levels 2 & 3 Schools 3:30 - 4:15 pm Redesignation Levels 1 & 4-7 Schools 4:30 - 5:15 pm Saturday, June 22 Continental Breakfast: 8:30 - 9:30 am The BOSS Educator: 9:30 - 11:00 am Schedule is subject to change. SCHOOLS TO WATCH AWARD CELEBRATIONS NE W AND REDESIGN ATING SCHOOLS TO WATCH WILL BE HONORED! Bring your team, dress to the nines, and celebrate your success! Conference Sponsors Thursday Keynote Speaker Sponsor Sown To Grow is a comprehensive student support platform that empowers schools to improve student social, emotional, and academic well-being through an easy and engaging reflection and feedback process. Designed by a team of former educators for practical classroom impact, Sown To Grow offers a simple Tier 1 practice for building a sense of belonging and key life skills, with real-time data on well-being and actionable resources for proactively supporting student needs. Table Sponsor - Scoutlier by Aecern helps teachers create scaffold, differentiate, and inspiring lessons to engage middle-school students in STEM and other subjects. - Scoutlier and its content are free and have been both funded and designed by the National Science Foundation, MIT Critical Data, and the DOE to help teachers scaffold, differentiate, and inspire students in classrooms of any size. Photo Booth Sponsor Arts Attack is a K-8 digital visual arts program along with Artful Reading that includes 10 read aloud books that are correlated to art lessons in the program. Table Sponsor Great Falls Travel , an educator-owned and operated travel company, specializes in customized educational tours for students. Our experienced team of educators designs itineraries aligned with educational goals, focusing on destinations with rich learning opportunities. We handle all trip details, prioritizing safety, engagement, and unique experiences. Our commitment to memorable, educational travel sets us apart. Become a Conference Sponsor Hill Visits DIY Guide is Available Advocacy is a critical component of education policy and practice, and we want to help you make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. With our DIY Visit Guide , you can schedule and prepare for a meeting with your Senator or Representative during the National Schools to Watch Conference. Download it now and get ready to make an impact. Download Guide Early Bird Register before January 31, 2024 Schools to Watch: $399 per person Non-STW: $419 Standard Rate Register between February 1, 2024 and April 15, 2024 Schools to Watch: $449 per person Non-STW: $489 per person Don't Be Late! Register between April 15, 2024 and the day of the event Schools to Watch: $499 per person Non-STW: $519 per person ALL ACTIVITIES TAKE PLACE AT: Crystal Gateway Marriott (not Crystal City) 1700 Richmond Hwy. Arlington, VA 22202 Special Room Rate: $262 pl us taxes & fees Make your hotel reservations online Register Today! Frequently asked questions Who should attend? ANYONE who is interested in learning from the best middle-level educators in the country. Why should I attend? There is not only one national conference created by middle level educators specifically designed for middle level educators ... but there is only ONE based on the Schools to Watch (STW) model! This one-of-a-kind event focuses on specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. The conference is organized around the following STW domains: Academic Excellence, Organizational Structures, Developmental Responsiveness, and Social Equity. What is Schools to Watch? Schools to Watch (STW) was designed by the National Forum. Criteria established by the Forum are used as the basis for the Schools to Watch Program, which focuses on school improvement efforts characterized by a continuous trajectory toward success. Get more information from your State Director (https://www.middlegradesforum.org/schools-to-watch)or contact us.(https://www.middlegradesforum.org/contact) What is included with registration? Two-and-a-half days of professional learning, STW award celebrations, keynote speakers, and one continental breakfast. What is the cancellation policy? ALL registrations are subject to the cancellation policy. Many conference-related fees are paid by the National Forum in advance, therefore, refunds will only be processed as follows: Prior to April 25, 2026, 15% fee; April 26, 2026 - May 25, 2026, 50% fee; after May 25, 2026, no refund. A colleague may substitute to avoid cancellation penalties. To make a substitution please email Kris (mailto:kris@leagueofschools.org)with the new information. Registrations are not refundable 30 days prior to the event for any reason, including without limitation, no-show due to illness, acts of God, travel-related problems, acts of terrorism, public health emergencies or alerts, loss of employment, and/or duplicate purchases. National Forum will provide registration refunds and options in the event National Forum fully cancels the event. Can I attend if I am not from a Schools to Watch? Yes! All are welcome. Do you have sponsor or exhibit opportunities? Yes! Our carefully crafted sponsorship opportunities (https://cvent.me/bAM4wE)offer prime visibility and engagement. This is your chance to align your brand with excellence in education and leave a lasting impact on the Schools to Watch network. Become a member today! Join

National Schools to Watch Educator of the Year Awards The 2026 National Schools to Watch Educator of the Year Awards , offered by the National Forum, honor outstanding educators who exemplify excellence in middle-level education. These national awards recognize individuals whose leadership, instruction, and service reflect the Schools to Watch criteria and a deep commitment to supporting young adolescents. Nominations are open to educators affiliated with Schools to Watch campuses and celebrate those making a meaningful impact on students, schools, and communities. Nominate a Teacher of the Year Nominate an Administrator of the Year Winners will be celebrated at the 2026 National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C., June 25-27. Nominations are due by February 27, 2026.

2023 East Avenue Middle School Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District Alameda County Jesse Hansen, Principal Enrollment: 547. Grade Levels: 6-8. School Characteristics and Replicable Practices PLCs: Common essential standards, assessments, rubrics, and reteaching Engage students through clubs, intramurals, and social events Wellness center and tiered social and emotional support Students plan recognitions for contributions of diverse students Data analysis identifies areas of need and the impact of interventions

2023 Nellie Coffman Middle School Palm Springs Unified School District Riverside County Karen Dimick, Principal Enrollment: 951. Grade Levels: 6-8. School Characteristics and Replicable Practices Advisory develops student/staff relationships through facilitated SEL STEAM technology center with drones, coding, robotics Literacy: books that reflect students’ lives, family literacy night, independent reading Wellness center/garden: safe spaces to decompress/access mental health services Robust AVID and AVID Excel programs for college preparation

Arizona Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Illinois | Indiana | Kentucky | Michigan | Missouri New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Ohio | Oregon | Pennsylvania | South Carolina | Texas | Utah | Virginia State Director Dr. Robert Caplinger SchoolstoWatch@AzAMLE.org Participating Organizations Arizona Association for Middle Level Education 2840 E. Germann Road #1071 Chandler, AZ 85286 www.AzAMLE.org Sponsoring Organizations Mountain America Credit Union www.macu.com Joined National STW Program in 2024 Schools to Watch Application 2026 Application Instructions Arizona Schools to Watch Overview www.AzAMLE.org/STW Arizona Arizona College Prep Middle School (2025) Kyrene Aprende Middle School (2025) M.C. Cash Elementary School (2025) Paseo Pointe Dual Language Academy (2025) Sossaman Middle School (2025) School Profiles Coming Soon