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Elwood Middle School honored with national 'Schools to Watch' and AMLE 'Schools of Distinction' recognitions
Summary
Elwood Middle School received national redesignation from the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades and the Association for Middle Level Education’s Schools of Distinction program; principal and staff described the programs, survey results and school practices at the Board of Education meeting.
Elwood Middle School was recognized by two national middle-level organizations Tuesday, Principal Christina Moran told the Elwood Union Free School District Board of Education.
Moran said the school was honored with a redesignation in the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades “Schools to Watch” program and was named a Schools of Distinction by the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE). “We are honored to receive our third national recognition for serving as a model middle school organized and structured to cater to the unique needs of the adolescent learner,” Moran said.
The designation processes, Moran said, involved a written application, a site visit and stakeholder surveys. She told the board that 100% of certified staff completed the staff survey and that 95% of the student body completed the student survey. Those results, she said, showed students “feel safe both physically and emotionally, and they know what good behavior looks like.”
Moran described programs she said support that environment: a weekly advisory or “court” program for sixth through eighth graders, teacher-to-student mentoring, restorative practices, a food pantry and a multicultural committee working on grading-with-equity initiatives. She credited long-term staff commitment for the school’s gains.
Tommy Ho, who introduced the presentation, praised the middle school as the district’s theme for the year — “Elwood elevate” — and turned the meeting over to Moran. Mrs. Vallelo, identified as principal of Harley Avenue, also addressed the board and thanked staff for their role in the designation process.
A short video featuring teachers and students accompanied the presentation. Teachers who spoke in the video described daily practices they said contribute to a supportive culture; students described warm welcome routines and teachers who check in on them in hallways.
Michael Calabrese, representing Congressman Nick LaLota, presented a congressional certificate of recognition to Principal Moran. Town Councilman Dave Bernardo and representatives of state legislators provided additional certificates and citations.
Board members praised the school’s staff and leadership. Board member Mr. Edwards said, “It’s really a group effort,” and another trustee noted the high student survey response rate as evidence of buy-in.
The presentation concluded with staff and board members gathering for photographs.
Why it matters: The recognitions highlight the district’s focus on practices intended to support adolescent development, social-emotional learning and a school culture officials said supports academic growth.
The board did not take a formal vote on the recognitions; the presentation was an informational item.
