Dates: Four sessions each occurring at 7:00 pm EST on September 30, October 14, October 21, and October 28

Description: We know there are tremendous benefits for students when they can name an adult advocate at school. But what does it mean to be a “good” advocate? Join us for a group book study of Successful Middle School Adult Advocates , led by a teacher leader, where we’ll explore how to foster relationships that support youth and you.

Facilitator: Megan Balduf, 8th Grade English Teacher in Fairfax, Virginia and AMLE Teacher Leader

Pricing: $49.99 for members (not available to non-members)

Participants will receive:

• One copy of Successful Middle School Adult Advocates 
• The “What is an Advocate?” classroom poster
• A “Successful Middle School Adult Advocate” virtual certificate badge
• Access to three, virtual group study sessions. The third meeting will conclude the study with a Q&A session with author Brooklyn Raney:
  • Session 1: Get to know your fellow study participants, baseline your pre-knowledge, and ground yourself in the middle school model that serves as the foundation for the text.
  • Session 2: Unpacks Part 1 of the text, exploring why relationships matter at school and how adults can foster academic engagement and growth while also supporting social and emotional development.
  • Session 3: Unpacks Part 2 of the text, establishing the qualities of an adult advocate at school, including how to make oneself accessible and provide care while maintaining healthy boundaries.
  • Session 4: Concludes with a discussion of Part 3 of the text and a Q&A session with the author. We’ll discuss practical advice on how to assess adult-student connections, design experiences that promote belonging and trust, and set and communicate expectations.

This event is offered exclusively to AMLE members and is limited to 30 participants. If you’re not yet a member of AMLE, we invite you to join our community of 35,000 passionate middle grades educators.