Next week, I have the honor of representing Seven Hills School at the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) annual conference. This gathering is one of the biggest in our field, bringing together educators dedicated to understanding and supporting middle school students through this critical developmental stage. It’s an exciting opportunity to engage with colleagues from around the country (and world!), sharing insights and strategies that can elevate teaching practices and, ultimately, student success. 

I am particularly proud to present in several sessions focused on key areas of middle level education. One session, “The Head, the Heart, and the Hand, Braiding Together Behavioral, Cognitive, and Emotional Engagement,” will explore how we can foster a well-rounded and deeply engaged learning environment that supports students’ academic, emotional, and social needs. Other sessions are designed specifically with the early career educator in mind, including using paired texts in a Language Arts classroom, making action research common practice, classroom management, building relationships, appropriate technology use in the classroom, and a panel discussion that brings together a range of perspectives on innovative practices in middle level education. Mr. Johnson and I will even present together on the evolution of our Advisory program at Seven Hills. 

Another highlight of this conference will be the special recognition that Seven Hills School will receive as a School of Distinction. This award is a testament to the exceptional work of our teachers, staff, and the entire school community. It reflects our collective commitment to fostering a dynamic, engaging, and supportive learning environment for all students. It’s an acknowledgment of the dedication that we bring to both student achievement and teacher development.

As the incoming chair of the Early Career Educator committee, I’m also proud of the work we’re doing to support educators who are just beginning their careers in middle school. By providing new teachers with the tools and guidance they need, we help them navigate the challenges of teaching adolescents while nurturing their growth as professionals. Last year, I started an international mentoring program to connect veteran educators with recent graduates, career-switchers, and teachers new to middle schools. This year, we hope to build on this program and provide resources that we can put in the hands of early career teachers. The energy and enthusiasm these early career educators bring to the profession are inspiring, and their impact on students will be felt for years to come.

The AMLE conference is always a great reminder of why we do what we do. It reinforces our belief in the transformative power of education during the middle school years—a time for our boys to discover their emerging interests, abilities, and talents. I look forward to returning to Seven Hills with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and new connections to further enrich our program.