What makes an exceptional school? What does it look like? What’s special about the faculty and staff? How do students benefit?

To earn the “Schools to Watch” designation, schools elect to undergo a rigorous internal evaluation process that moves them toward excellence as exemplified through strategic action, visionary school leadership, and student achievement. Schools then receive a site visit from a team of trained experts for a performance evaluation. Those meeting the criteria earn a national designation as a “School to Watch” and become a model for other middle-level programs throughout Indiana. Schools unable to fulfill the criteria receive additional on-site support to facilitate school-wide improvement.

Schools to Watch is an initiative of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. Indiana is one of only 18 states hosting this prestigious program. To learn more about Schools to Watch in Indiana, visit the Indiana Middle Level Education Association.