Steward’s Middle School Named a School of Distinction

The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) has recognized The Steward School among its 2026 Schools of Distinction, a program that honors schools that exemplify best practices in middle-level education. The AMLE program evaluates schools on their implementation of research-based criteria tailored to young adolescents.

Using 18 research-based criteria, AMLE conducted extensive site reviews and virtual evaluations that include structured interviews with teachers, staff, families, and students. The evaluation highlighted the school’s responsiveness to the distinct needs and identities of adolescents; creating environments where students take responsibility for their own learning and contribute positively to the world around them; and maintaining a shared vision to guide all decisions as standout strengths.

Director of Middle School Susan Atkinson said, “We are very honored to receive this distinction, which is a testament to Steward’s dedicated faculty, students, parents, and administrators." She added, “The amazing Middle School team works diligently every day to foster the best possible learning and growing environment for our students. It is very reaffirming that AMLE praised us for building a strong culture and community in our Middle School and for aligning with AMLE’s best practices in all facets of school life.”

Upon being recognized as an AMLE School of Distinction, Steward was asked to submit a video. In the video, Ms. Atkinson shares that Steward’s core values (academic achievement, care & respect, civil discourse, individuality, innovation, and inspiration) are fundamental to the Middle School experience. 

As an AMLE School of Distinction, Steward joins a network of exemplary middle schools featured in AMLE’s searchable online database. Steward’s Middle School will be formally recognized as a 2026 School of Distinction, along with 37 other schools from 15 states and three countries, at AMLE’s annual conference, which takes place November 4-7 in Nashville, TN.