LI Middle School Named One "To Watch"

MERRICK, NY — After a comprehensive application process, Merrick Avenue Middle School has been named a "School to Watch" by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform.

Merrick Avenue is one of only two middle schools in New York to receive the designation this year.

The "School to Watch" program shines a spotlight on schools across the country that demonstrate improvement and excel in various areas. It focuses on four essential parts of middle school education: Academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity and organizational support.

"I am proud of our entire school community for earning this award because it honors who we are now as a school of excellence, but also acknowledges that we are educators committed to future professional growth, and always put our students first," Principal Katelyn Dunn said.

While schools are recognized for achievements at the middle school level, applicants were also required to provide an outline for improvements in the coming years.

Dunn will officially accept the designation from the New York State Commissioner of Education on May 5.

Representatives from the school will also attend a "Schools to Watch" forum in Washington at the end of June.