John Griffin Middle School has been re-designated as a "School to Watch" by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform through the NC Schools to Watch program and the NC Association for Middle Level Education (NCMLE), joining an elite group of middle schools nationwide recognized for their academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity and organizational structures supporting continuous improvement.

"We are honored to be re-designated as a National School to Watch - a testament to the hard work, dedication and resilience of our students, staff and community," said 

Dr. Latreicia Allen, the principal at John Griffin Middle School in a press release. "This recognition reaffirms our commitment to academic excellence, student growth and a culture of continuous improvement. Together, we will be anchored in excellence!"

The Schools to Watch (STW) designation, established by the National Forum, identifies and celebrates middle-grade schools that meet rigorous criteria for excellence. Schools selected for this honor demonstrate:

● Outstanding academic excellence, where all students are challenged to use their minds well

● Strong developmental responsiveness to the unique needs and interests of early adolescents

● Commitment to social equity, ensuring every student has access to high-quality classes and the support they need to achieve at high levels

● Organizational structures that support continuous improvement and maintain high-performance outcomes

The selection process involved a comprehensive evaluation of the school's practices that included detailed written applications, site visits by state teams, interviews with school administrators, teachers, students and parents; student achievement data review as well as the assessment of school practices and policies.

"We congratulate John Griffin Middle School on this well-earned re-designation as a ‘School to Watch!’ said Dr. La'Shanda Carver-Moore, the area superintendent of School Support - Middle Grades in a press release. "This honor reflects the dedication of the school's educators, students and community to academic excellence, equity and continuous growth. Being recognized among the nation’s top middle schools is a testament to the school’s commitment to student success. Well done, John Griffin Middle School!"

Joining other exemplary middle-grade schools from across the country, John Griffin Middle School will be recognized at the National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C. The school will hold this designation for three years and can apply for re-designation to maintain its status as a School to Watch. For more information about the Schools to Watch program, visit https://www.middlegradesforum.org/.