The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) recognized Custer Baker Intermediate School (CBIS) as one of seventeen AMLE Schools of Distinction for 2024.

AMLE’s Schools of Distinction program recognizes exemplary schools while supporting them through a process of strategic vision setting to help foster ongoing growth and success. The program’s evaluation criteria are anchored in AMLE’s landmark position paper on best practices in the middle grades, The Successful Middle School: This We Believe, now in its fifth edition and 42nd year of publication.

CBIS completed a rigorous review process that measured the implementation of middle-grade best practices and continuous improvement plans. After advancing from the initial application, the school community participated in a series of stakeholder interviews that included staff, students, and families. 

“The staff at CBIS has worked hard for the last five years to meet the needs of the middle level learner,” CBIS Principal Cheryl Moran said. “We have worked with AMLE through book studies, conferences, staff surveys, and onsite training. We try to meet the needs of our learners on a daily basis. We still have some work to do, but we are getting better and better at addressing the unique needs of our middle level learners.”

“This is a great honor for CBIS and Franklin Schools,” Superintendent Dr. David Clendening said. “The ever-changing needs of the middle level learner are quite dynamic. Mrs. Moran and her team of teachers, staff, and administrators have created a school improvement plan designed to create a safe, secure learning place for students where individual growth can reign for all! This award and recognition from the AMLE are proof that the plan is working! FCS is proud to be recognized as a School of Distinction.

“It is a privilege to recognize Custer Baker Intermediate School as an AMLE School of Distinction. They are truly worthy of this prestigious honor, and I’m excited for AMLE to be able to share their story,” said Stephanie Simpson, CEO of AMLE. During the review process, CBIS practices were highlighted as particular areas of strength.   

CBIS will be recognized and present on their exemplary practices live at AMLE24: The 51st Annual Conference for Middle Level Education this November in Nashville, TN.