What’s it really like being a middle schooler in 2026? Hundreds of students from around the world shared their thoughts on this question, responding to AMLE’s Middle School Sound Off contest, held to mark March as Middle Level Education Month.

While “sounding off,” students could consider a variety of prompts for inspiration but were encouraged to tap into their creativity and choose a format that most appealed to them. The submissions were profound, offering keen insights into the modern middle grades experience.

The winning submission came from 7th graders Nasir Scott and Adrian Morales at Strong Middle School in Melvindale, Michigan. Their game, “My Life in School” explored several middle school themes by walking users through typical daily interactions in the school building.