The Successful Middle School Program
AMLE believes that the true middle school is one that has been planned and organized to address the developmental and cultural needs of students ages 10 to 14, generally including grades 5-8. Recognized as the best articulation of the middle school model, AMLE’s landmark position paper, The Successful Middle School: This We Believe outlines the essential attributes and characteristics of a high-performing middle grades school.
This is no small task, as young adolescent students are undergoing substantial development the scope and speed of which is second only to the period from birth to age three, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. AMLE’s core mission as a non-profit membership association is to help schools actualize the successful middle school in their own communities. We work toward that mission through The Successful Middle School Program, a comprehensive set of tools and resources for educators, schools, and districts.
The Successful Middle School Book Study
Build a Common Language
A team book study of The Successful Middle School provides a participatory and reflective deep dive into the foundational text. Build a cohesive vision for your school improvement journey and align professional development with the needs of your school. AMLE provides synchronous and asynchronous coach-led studies as well as a complimentary self-directed study guide for members.
The Successful Middle School Assessment
Baseline your Implementation of Middle Grades Best Practice
Driven by research-based exemplars, AMLE’s holistic school assessment helps gauge your implementation of middle grades best practices. Led by an AMLE coach, schools receive a comprehensive report that includes analysis, recommendations, and actionable next steps.
AMLE Schools of Distinction
Join a Community of Best Practice
A recognition and continuous improvement program that is open to any school, anywhere in the world, that educates students aged 10-15. Schools are be supported with AMLE resources and celebrated for their commitment to middle grades best practices.
AMLE Professional Development
Advance your Successful Middle School Journey
While the middle school model looks different in each school, we know that it is possible in every school. AMLE professional development is rooted in decades of research on what works for young adolescents, with each engagement tailored to support the school or district’s unique needs. It’s quite literally our mission to provide schools with affordable and high quality professional learning, no matter where you are in your Successful Middle School journey.
Successful Middle School Companion Resources
Successful middle schools leverage existing research on the structures and practices that best support young adolescents in their academic, cognitive, social, and psychological development. Learn more about and access AMLE resources on key components related to the middle school model:
Middle School Master Schedule
Support strategic use of instructional time in your middle school.
Middle School Leadership
Cultivate leadership rooted in successful middle school practices.
Young Adolescent Development
Understand the significant biological, cognitive, and social-emotional changes.
Getting Started
Not sure where to start? AMLE is here to support no matter where you are in your Successful Middle School journey. Connect with Katie Powell, Director for Middle Level Programs, to discuss your school or district’s needs.
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