Annual Report

2011 Annual Report

The 2010-2011 fiscal year was a significant one for National Middle School Association. During the year, the association finalized the process of determining that a name change would be in the best interest of the organization. After years of consideration and the engagement of a multitude of stakeholders and task forces, the board brought the new name to members to approve in the Spring 2011 election.

A campaign was launched to inform the members of the impending vote and in early 2011, members approved the name of the Association for Middle Level Education by an 80% majority vote. The new name, planned to take effect on July 1, 2011, demonstrates more clearly that the organization is representative of all middle grades educators—not just those in middle schools by name—and that it is an international organization, broader in scope than the word "national" previously indicated.

Additionally, the 2010–2011 year brought a change in leadership when Dr. Drew Allbritten left the organization in January 2011. The board engaged an executive director search committee, and by June 2011, Dr. William D. Waidelich, was named the association’s next executive director.

The Association continued to provide service to middle grades educators worldwide through print and digital publications, the dissemination of research, conferences and institutes, site-based assessment and professional development, and web and social media initiatives.

The annual conference in Baltimore and the Institutes for Middle Level Leadership in San Diego and Savannah exceeded revenue and attendance projections. Attendee survey responses indicated a continued exceptional approval rating for these events as well.

With a new name and new leadership the association is renewed and invigorated as it continues to support and serve as a voice for middle grades educators.

Regards,

Joan Jarrett
2010-2011 NMSA/AMLE President