Gail Heinemeyer

Gail Heinemeyer is a retired middle school principal, faculty member of the AMLE Leadership Institute, and served as President, Executive Secretary and Director for Professional Development for the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education.

Gail began her career as a social studies and mathematics teacher and was actively involved in transforming a junior high school into a middle school that reflected the AMLE characteristics of an exemplary middle school. In particular, she developed the first transition camp for incoming 6th graders to facilitate the move to a large middle school from seven elementary schools. She dedicated 45 years to the Ridley School District in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Over the course of her tenure, she served in a variety of leadership roles, including assistant principal, principal, and Director of Support Services. Gail oversaw the teacher induction program for the district and incorporated many principles of middle level education in the program. Her extensive experience has shaped her into a passionate, lifelong advocate for middle level education and the success of young adolescents.

Her involvement with AMLE spans more than two decades of leadership and service. She served as Co-Chair of the 2005 AMLE Annual Conference in Philadelphia and joined the faculty of the Institute for Middle Level Leadership in 2004. From 2018 to 2021, Gail served as Chair of the Institute. In 2020, she led the Back-to-School Camp, AMLE’s first fully virtual conference, supporting schools nationwide as they navigated the challenges of the pandemic. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she received the AMLE Distinguished Service Award in 2022.

Following the release of The Successful Middle School: This We Believe, Gail worked with Linda Hopping to develop a book study for undergraduate students and organized the first cohort of students who served as ambassadors at the national conference. She serves as an evaluator for AMLE Schools of Distinction and PAMLE’s Schools to Watch.

In addition to her national impact, Gail has been deeply involved with her state affiliate, the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education, which honored her with the William Alexander Award for her significant contributions to the field.

Through her work at the local, state, and national levels, Gail Heinemeyer has made a lasting and meaningful impact on middle grades education, educators, and the young adolescents they serve.

Pam Millikan

Pam Millikan is a retired middle school educator who served 38 years in education. She began her career as a middle school language arts teacher and later transitioned to administration. During her career, Pam was named Indiana Principal of the Year, and in 2005 she was recognized as the AMLE Educator of the Year. In addition, Pam served on the Indiana Middle Level Education board and served as the President of the Indiana board.

Pam is a passionate advocate for middle level education and is always working to share her knowledge about middle level education with others. She has written multiple articles for AMLE, presented at the AMLE annual conference, and presented at various state affiliate conferences. Pam also served three terms on the AMLE Board of Trustees and took on multiple leadership roles during her terms, including President of the Board in 2017.

Pam was instrumental in developing the Successful Middle School Assessment and AMLE Schools of Distinction Program, two significant additions to AMLE’s portfolio of professional development opportunities. According to Katie Powell, AMLE’s Director for Middle Level Programs, “The Schools of Distinction program is a testament to Pam's dedication to our profession and her commitment to supporting and celebrating schools. Her vision was its genesis, and her time and effort continue to guide and sustain it.”

Patti Kinney

In 1st grade, Patti Kinney decided to become a teacher when she realized that she wanted to be the person “who told kids what to do!” Fortunately, she eventually learned that the job entailed a great deal more than that! She began her career as an elementary music specialist and then taught 5th and 6th grade in an elementary school. She later taught 6th and 7th grade when her school district made the transition to middle school in the mid-80s. During this time she was also involved in staff development work for the district, taught a variety of instructional and management skills classes, and took a one-year sabbatical leave to teach in the education department of Southern Oregon University. As an assistant principal and later principal of Talent Middle School, she was highly involved in the process to transform this former 7th-8th junior high school into a 6th-8th middle school. In 2000, the school was recognized as one of “100 highly successful middle schools” in a national research study sponsored by NASSP.

Patti is a past president of the Association for Middle Level Education and of the Oregon Middle Level Association. In 2007, she was awarded the Oregon Middle Level Association’s first Distinguished Service Award that was also named in her honor. She was named the Oregon Assistant Principal of the Year in 1996, the Oregon Principal of the Year in 2002, and in 2003 was selected as the Met-Life/NASSP National Middle Level Principal of the Year. From 2007 through 2014, she served as Associate Director, Middle Level Services, for the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) located in Virginia. In 2016, she was awarded the Excellence in Education Award from Southern Oregon University. 

Patti currently speaks, presents, and consults on middle level and general-education issues at the national and international levels. Patti has co-authored five books with Laurie Barron: Expect! Engage! Empower! Three Pathways to Powerful Learning (to be released 2026), The Successful Middle School: A Place to Belong and Become, 2nd Edition, We Belong: 50 Strategies to Create Community and Revolutionize Classroom Management, Middle School: A Place to Belong and Become, and What Parents Need to Know about Common Core and Other College- and Career-Ready Standards. She also authored the book Fostering Student Accountability through Student-led Conferences and co-authored Voices of Experience: Perspectives from Middle Level Leaders and The What, Why, and How of Student-Led Conferences. She wrote regularly for NASSP’s Principal Leadership magazine and currently writes for a variety of on-line and print-based publications. Patti earned a B.A. in elementary education, an M.A. in outdoor education from Southern Oregon University, and an administrative certification license from the University of Oregon.

She reconnected with a former Cottage Grove High School classmate (they were even in the same 1st grade classroom), and they were married in 2020. She and her husband, Dan Bolton, currently live in Cottage Grove, Oregon.

Stephanie Simpson    
During her 6 years of service (June 2019 – December 2025) as Chief Executive Officer of AMLE, Stephanie Simpson provided distinguished leadership that saw the Association gain new heights of national and international prominence and influence. Simpson led the organization through a period of innovation and growth, advancing AMLE’s mission to empower middle grades educators to help every young adolescent thrive.

Her tenure was highlighted by many notable events and achievements including:

• Oversaw a major revision of the organization’s landmark position statement, The Successful Middle School: This We Believe, introducing a suite of robust professional development resources to support its implementation. These included companion texts, school assessment tools, and the launch of the Schools of Distinction international recognition program, celebrating exemplary middle level practices around the world.
• Expanded volunteer and leadership opportunities for collegiate students and pre-service teachers at annual conferences
• Organized the release of AMLE’s Career Exploration in the Middle Grades Playbook, providing educators with practical guidance to integrate career-connected learning.
• Launched an international school recognition program, Schools of Distinction, to celebrate excellence in the middle grades
• Championed the Middle School Student Sound Off international contest to elevate student voice
• Launched MiddleSchool.org, AMLE’s first family-focused website
• Established a national policy agenda for the middle grades to advance equitable, developmentally responsive education for all young adolescents.
• Supervised the development of a new website and communications strategy to significantly increase digital engagement
• Supervised the AMLE Foundation Fund initiatives: The Successful Middle School Grant, AMLE Educator of the Year Award, CMLA Chapter Grants, The Successful Middle School Research Grant
• Created fundraisers for the AMLE Foundation Fund and also made annual personal donations.

Member Comments Regarding Stephanie’s Contributions

Stephanie has been an extraordinary leader for AMLE and for the middle grades community. Her vision, creativity, and commitment have strengthened our organization and expanded our reach to educators, students, and families around the world. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and the legacy she leaves.

— Dr. Stephanie Patton, Chair of the AMLE Board of Trustees (2025)

Stephanie Simpson was a breath of fresh air when she became CEO of AMLE. She reached out to those who had been the heart of NMSA/AMLE to include them and learn from the past so she could build a better future for young adolescents and middle level education. Throughout her tenure she continually used her creativity to develop strategies for increasing the Foundation Fund to further the mission of AMLE. During this time she guided the re-imagining of grants to schools into "The Successful Middle Schools Grants," supported the addition of the "Aspiring Educator Scholarships" to bring passionate teacher candidates to the conference, and saw the landmark achievement of awarding the inaugural "Successful Middle Schools in Action" research grants. Thank you, Stephanie, for leading the rebirth of AMLE. Best wishes to you, your family, and your future endeavors.

— Rebecca Lawson, Former Foundation Fund Committee Chair & Member

Thank you Stephanie for your leadership of AMLE. As a former board member and past president, I know that your vision and dedication to AMLE led us to the vibrant organization we have today. Most of all, your strength in relationship building and caring expanded our organization.

— Pam Millikan, Retired School Administrator

Stephanie, you are such an amazing leader, and I’m truly grateful for the pivotal role you and AMLE have had on me as an educator. Your guidance, passion, and heart for middle grades have shaped so many of us in ways you’ll never fully see. I am so thankful for the impact you’ve made in my life and everyone around you. We are all better because of you.

— Gloridely Hernandez, English Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher and Former Student Ambassador

AMLE — and indeed the entire middle level educator community — owes you a debt of gratitude. To have brought the organization from financial distress to stability, to have laid the groundwork and begun the ascent to one of the giants in public education, to have recognized, equipped, and empowered so many voices, and to have done it all with truly uncommon grace, humility, and class — taken together, you are THE model of leadership.

— Andrew Maxey, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Tuscaloosa City Schools and AMLE Board of Trustees

Stephanie Simpson, thank you for your untiring and important work in the middle years. Over here in Australia, we thank you for your connection and support of Adolescent Success and the affiliation we have grown together.

— Debra Evans, Education Consultant, Research Masters (Teacher Data Literacy), Immediate Past President: Adolescent Success

Stephanie Simpson — your influence, your impact, and your efforts to bring AMLE and Adolescent Success closer together will continue to shape much of the work ahead.

— Braydon Giles, Head of Middle School | Vice President of Adolescent Success

Middle level education is forever indebted to Stephanie Simpson for her leadership and efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Char Pike
Char Pike stands as a preeminent figure in middle-level education. Her career, spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the field, from her classroom teaching to her leadership roles within the Michigan Association for Middle School Education (MAMSE) and the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE), previously National Middle School Association (NMSA).

At L’Anse Creuse Middle School South, Char taught 8th-grade social studies for 30 years and developed a pioneering co-teaching model that became a national standard. Her involvement with MAMSE saw her rise through various leadership positions, culminating in her induction into the MAMSE Hall of Fame in 1994-95, recognizing her substantial contributions to Michigan’s middle-level education.

Char's influence extended nationally when she served on the NMSA Board from 1984 to 1995, becoming its President in 1994-95, a rare honor for a classroom teacher. Her tenure was marked by financial acumen and strategic foresight, as noted by her peers.

Post her board term, Char continued her commitment through her work with the NMSA/AMLE Foundation Fund Committee, significantly contributing to its growth and impact. Her efforts have been instrumental in supporting various educational initiatives, including grants for innovative teaching practices and research.

In 2023, her long-term service was celebrated with the AMLE Distinguished Service Award, recognizing her as one of the few recipients in the organization's history.

Middle level education is indebted to Char Pike for her 50 years of leadership and efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them.

Marcia Meade-Hurst
For over three and a half decades, Marcia Meade-Hurst has been the cornerstone of the Association for Middle Level Education, earning her place as its longest-serving employee since joining in 1990. With unwavering dedication, Marcia has embraced a multitude of roles, consistently stepping up to meet the organization’s needs with her remarkable talents. As AMLE’s Senior Member Center Specialist, she expertly oversees member relations and office operations, ensuring the seamless execution of critical functions—from managing the bookstore and membership fulfillment to orchestrating thousands of annual conference registrations.

Marcia’s warm, welcoming voice has been a hallmark of AMLE’s member experience, offering guidance, resources, and connections that foster the organization’s signature sense of community. Her ability to build meaningful relationships has left an indelible mark on countless members, making her an invaluable presence. It’s no surprise that Dr. John Lounsbury, a founder of AMLE, frequently turned to her saying, “I’ll just call Marcia, she can help me.”

Beyond her operational excellence, Marcia’s genuine passion for AMLE’s mission and her pride in her work have inspired colleagues, members, and students alike. Her infectious enthusiasm and steadfast commitment have elevated the organization and touched lives across the globe. Middle level education is indebted to Marcia Meade-Hurst for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through her inspiring work.

Dr. Nancy Mizelle

Dr. Nancy Mizelle has dedicated over 30 years to the field of middle level education, most recently serving as Professor and Chair of the Department of Professional Learning and Innovation at Georgia College and State University. With an Ed.D. from the University of Georgia, Nancy has focused her career on enhancing the educational experiences of young adolescents, particularly through her expertise in adolescent motivation and literacy learning, and middle level teacher preparation.

Nancy's scholarly impact is marked by numerous publications in esteemed journals like Educational Leadership and Middle School Journal, alongside significant contributions to books such as "As He Saw It: Contributions, Memories and Reflections of John H. Lounsbury". Her commitment to sharing knowledge extends beyond writing; she is a frequent speaker at regional and national conferences, including AMLE.

Her leadership within educational institutions is profound, having held various key roles at Georgia College, including Program Coordinator for Middle Grades and multiple positions as Department Chair. Nancy's service to the broader educational community is equally impressive. She has served in leadership capacities with the National Association of Professors of Middle Level Education and the Georgia Association of Middle Level Education, guiding policy and practice. As the longtime advisor for Georgia College's Collegiate Middle Level Association, she has fostered future educators through initiatives like the annual CMLA Summit, which she continues to support into its 20th year.

Dr. Nancy Mizelle's work has not only elevated the discourse in middle level education but also directly improved the lives of countless students and educators through her visionary leadership, scholarly pursuit, and steadfast service. Middle level education is indebted to Dr. Mizelle for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through his inspiring work

Dr. Vincent A. Anfara, Jr.

Dr. Vincent A. Anfara, Jr., was a stalwart advocate for middle level education, leaving an indelible mark on the field through his extensive career as an educator, researcher, and mentor. With a background including degrees from the College of Santa Fe, Notre Dame University, the University of South Florida, and a PhD from the University of New Orleans, Vince's journey in education spanned over 30 years, initially as a teacher and administrator in middle and high schools, and later as a distinguished academic at Temple University and the University of Tennessee.

Vince's scholarly contributions were profound, with over 80 articles in leading educational journals and 14 books to his name, focusing on middle school reform, leadership, and student achievement. He was instrumental in founding and editing key resources like "The Handbook of Research in Middle Level Education" and served in influential positions such as the Chair of AMLE’s Research Advisory Board and as an active member of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform.

His leadership extended to significant roles within the American Educational Research Association, where he revitalized the Middle Level Education Research Special Interest Group, significantly increasing its membership and initiating new programs and book series. Vince's commitment to nurturing the next generation of scholars was evident as he quietly mentored many, leaving a lasting impact on both individuals and the broader field.

Though Vince passed away in 2013 at the age of 60, his legacy in middle level education continues to inspire and influence educators, researchers, and students alike, embodying a deep commitment to the needs of young adolescents and the vitality of middle grades education. Middle level education is indebted to Dr. Anfara for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through his inspiring work.

Ed Brazee

Ed Brazee’s work with AMLE began in 1977 with his involvement in the Association’s 4th Annual Conference. He later served as a regular contributor to and column editor for Middle School Journal, as a member and chair of the Publications Committee for 20 years, and as AMLE’s publications editor for 12 years where he not only guided countless books through the publication process, but also authored, co-authored, and edited a multitude of publications, articles, and reports. Particularly significant was his work on the 2003 and 2010 editions of This We Believe.

At the state level, Ed helped found the Maine Association for Middle Level Education and has supported and contributed greatly to its work over the years. For over 20 summers, he directed the Maine Middle Level Institute at the University of Maine, an institute that enrolled and nurtured teams from New England and beyond. Today, Ed still serves education but in a slightly different format. In 2014, he and two colleagues (also former middle level educators) formed BoomerTECH Adventures to help the baby boomer generation navigate the new (to them) digital world and it’s still going strong.

Ed Brazee’s significant influence on middle level education has been recognized by many. The MAMLE service award is named for him, he received the James P. Garvin Distinguished Service Award Honoree from the New England League of Middle Schools, and in 2010, he was awarded the John H. Lounsbury Award for Distinguished Service Association for Middle Level Education, the highest award given by AMLE. Middle level education is indebted to Dr. Brazee for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through his inspiring work.

Gayle Andrews

Gayle Andrews is an outstanding and long-time leader in middle level education. Currently, she is professor in the Department of Educational Theory and Practice at the University of Georgia, Athens where she also serves as the faculty advisor to the University’s Collegiate Middle Level Association (CMLA) chapter.

Gayle is the co-author of the seminal text, Turning Points 2000: Educating Adolescents in the 21st Century (2000) and Making the Most of Middle School: A Field Guide for Parents and Others (2004). She is also the editor of Research to Guide Practice in Middle Grades Education (2013), an influential 30+ chapter book. She continually shares her expertise in numerous articles, books, book chapters, and research reports that focus on the education and well-being of young adolescents.

She has actively served AMLE as evidenced by her leadership as member of the Board of Trustees, chair of the Research Advisory Committee, and various search and selection committees. Notably, she is the recipient of the prestigious John H. Lounsbury Award for Distinguished Service Association for Middle Level Education (2011), the highest award given by AMLE. Middle level education is indebted to Dr. Andrews for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through her inspiring work.

John Norton
John Norton’s contributions to the field of middle level education began nearly 30 years ago when he secured a grant in the late 1990’s to create a website for educators called MiddleWeb that later expanded to include several listservs. Under his skillful moderation, MiddleWeb grew to include hundreds of educators and regular contributions from prominent figures in the field. When the grant ran out in 2003, John funded the work out of pocket for a year before establishing a partnership to create the MiddleTalk listserve under the NMSA/AMLE umbrella, which served its membership for a number of years. John continued his work by co-founding Teacher Leaders Network, a by-invitation group of mostly national board certified teachers of all ages, including middle school.

In 2013, John rebooted MiddleWeb and continues to moderate it to this day. It is a sprawling, active hub that includes resources, articles, blogs, and book reviews. MiddleWeb has also partnered with SmartBrief to produce a newsletter for middle level educators and Routledge to co-publish books on middle level education.

Through his efforts, MiddleWeb has touched tens of thousands of professional lives, and thus many times that number in student lives. John’s mentorship of countless professionals as teacher leaders, authors, and consultants has provided them with the gift of confidence as they, in turn, impact the field. 

Debbie Silver
An educator with 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher, staff development instructor, and university professor, Dr. Debbie Silver was named Louisiana Teacher of the Year in 1990, Distinguished Alumnus from the College of Education at Louisiana Tech University in 2007, and the Tri-States’ (Ark-La-Tex) “My Favorite Teacher.”

Having spent most of her career as a middle school science teacher, Debbie is a frequent keynote speaker and presenter at AMLE and its affiliates’ conferences. Educators everywhere respond to her use of humor and sensitivity to remind them how important teachers are in the lives of children. Many will remember her using her science expertise to set off a “mini-rocket” made from a mimeograph insert at the end of her presentations to remind us to be on fire for our students.

Dr. Silver is the author of several books, including Drumming to the Beat of Different Marchers: Finding the Rhythm for Differentiated Learning and Fall Down 7 Times, Get Up 8: Teaching Kids to Succeed. In 2014, she co-authored Deliberate Optimism: Reclaiming the Joy in Education with Jack C. Berckemeyer and Judith Baenen to help recharge educators and schools. Her most recent book, Teaching Kids to Thrive: Essential Skills for Success focuses on how Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) can be woven into all subject areas at all levels.

Dr. Debbie Silver has dedicated her life to understanding learning and growth behavior, while her extensive research background gives her keen insights into educational theory and practice. Throughout her work, she embodies both the art and heart of teaching. Middle level education is indebted to Dr. Silver for transforming the lives of teachers and students around the world through her inspiring work.

Linda Robinson
Linda Robinson was a lifelong middle grades advocate, making an impact both in the schools where she served as teacher and administrator as well as after her retirement. She received her Bachelor’s in Education from Texas Christian University in 1968 and her Master’s, along with certifications in Reading and Administration, from the University of Houston, Clear Lake in 1978. Her early work as a teacher and assistant principal led to her being named principal of Alvin Junior High (Alvin, TX) where she served for 20 years. Under her leadership the school became known as a standard for well-run middle schools throughout the country.

During this time, she also served on the board of the Texas Middle Level Association. In addition to becoming president of the organization, she was a member of the conference planning committee, a featured speaker at annual conferences, and volunteered with the Texas Schools to Watch program as a reviewer and a site visit facilitator.

Linda served on the NMSA (now AMLE) Board of Directors and was elected president of the organization in 2003. One of Linda’s goals as president was to resurrect and strengthen the Foundation Fund. At that time, the Foundation Fund was established but there had been no concerted effort to publicize, encourage donations, or provide benefits to the membership. She created a committee structure, involved active supporters of AMLE, and laid the groundwork for the success the Foundation enjoys today.

After her presidency, Linda served on the writing team for the development of the School Improvement Assessment, which later evolved into the current Successful Middle School Assessment, along with Linda Hopping and Ed Brazee. Linda and Linda Hopping (AKA the Toolkit Lindas) developed a training program to support the Assessment through which observation teams visited schools on-site to validate the assessment results and provide the school with robust reports. Linda Hopping recalls, “I have never worked with anyone who was such a perfectionist, and I loved that about her. She had an amazing way of working with the schools involved and developed lasting relationships with some of them. I learned so much from her, admired her greatly, and loved her passion for NMSA and for middle level education.”

After her retirement, Linda continued assisting middle school educators and administrators by starting LWR Consulting so she could continue sharing her love of teaching with schools throughout the country. Over the course of her lengthy career, Linda Robinson has made a significant impact on middle level education AND is deserving of being an honored member of the Legacy Circle.

Monte Selby
Dr. Monte Selby began his career impacting students as an elementary music teacher, and continued as assistant middle school principal, middle school principal, and professor working with pre-service teachers. He earned his doctorate in school leadership and became a professor at the Teachers College at Emporia State University. He is currently the principal and Superintendent of Schools for the island of Vinalhaven, Maine. Throughout his career, he has used music as the basis for communicating important truths about teaching and learning, as well as for sharing the challenges faced by students and educators.

Monte’s story began when he picked up his first guitar as a way of escaping piano lessons. By age 10, he had written his first song and performed it at talent shows. When he became a teacher, his favorite songwriting topic became “kids.” Observing their behavior, conversations, and reactions, he created lyrics and music to entertain fellow teachers and parents. He has said, “Being a middle school principal was like a songwriter’s playground. There are lyric ideas everywhere…”After writing many “education” songs for fun, Dr. Selby began experimenting with using songwriting as a teaching tool. He found that elementary through graduate students could use the experience of songwriting to summarize their learning, gain insight into effective writing, and build stronger learning communities from the collaborative work. Using this technique, he traveled the country writing songs with nearly 43,000 students in grades K-12.

Monte has received awards for his work, including the James P. Garvin Distinguished Service Award from the New England League of Middle Schools, The State of Arkansas Traveler: Ambassador of Good Will from the Governor’s Office for Contributions to Arkansas Alternative Education, Excellence in Instruction Award from The Teacher’s College of Emporia State University, and KAMELOT Award from Kansas Association of Middle Level Education for Outstanding Contributions to Middle Level Education. Dr. Selby has co-authored eight books and composed over 100 published songs, including “Check Your Attitude, which was on the 2012 Grammy Award winning Best Children’s Album. He has served middle level education on the board of the Maine Association for Middle Level Education and as a member of the AMLE Foundation Committee.

Dr. Monte Selby has impacted learning on every level through his talents and his music. His work with students has given them voice, and he has amplified that voice in his presentations around the world. His rapport with kids and educators alike is unmatched. Middle level education is indebted to Monte for his outstanding contributions in numerous areas.

David Puckett
David Puckett was the epitome of a dedicated middle school teacher and advocate. David spent 30 years as a teacher, first teaching adult education, then spending the majority of his career at Johnson Traditional Middle School where he taught French and 7th grade Social Studies. David had a tremendous impact on the students he encountered, often staying connected with them long after they’d left his classroom. His former students have so much to say about their teacher, describing him as “One of the GOATs” and that they are better people for having had him in their lives.

In 1952, at the age of five, David was diagnosed with both polio and encephalitis and doctors didn’t give his family much hope for his recovery. But not only did David survive, he thrived, learning from this experience and demonstrating patience and determination to leave a tremendous legacy for middle school teachers and students. David was an active member of AMLE, serving on the Board, presenting at conferences, and writing many books for middle level educators. He even wrote poetry books around education topics. David was also actively involved at the local level through the Kentucky Middle School Association.

Pete Lorain

Pete Lorain’s middle school career began in the 1960’s as a high school teacher in Beaverton, Oregon. He went on to become a middle school principal and to be a founding father of the Oregon State Middle Level Association. This led to him serving as chair to the National Middle School Association (NMSA) conference and to his election to the NMSA (now AMLE) Board of Trustees. Eventually, Pete served as president of NMSA and chaired many initiatives and programs.

Pete has worked with school districts and state and national associations on school improvement, strategic planning, personnel issues, and all aspects of middle school. One only has to look at the reviews of Pete’s books: The Gestalt of Leadership (2014) and The Art and Science of Leading (2015) to see the impact he has had on those who serve middle level education.

From 2009-2012 Pete served as the Transition Chair during a change in executive directors. It was during this time that his leadership skills were truly on display, as AMLE continues to flourish today. While uncompensated and often unheralded, his work ensured that AMLE remained strong. Pete is an unsung hero for all those who “believe” in middle level education.

Santo Pino

Santo Pino, a teacher’s teacher, an administrator’s administrator, and a leader’s leader, completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at Kent State University. From there, he went on to serve as assistant principal of Barron Collier High School, principal of Manatee Educational Center, principal of Pine Ridge Middle School, and Director of Middle and Secondary Education for Collier County Public Schools serving the district for twenty-three years. He later earned his Specialists and Doctoral degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership from the University of Miami and is the co-author of Success with IEPs.

Santo was an integral part of the Florida League of Middle Schools (FLMS), having served as its Executive Director. In recognition of his impact, FLMS awarded him the Paul S. George Award for exemplary work in middle level education. He also served as a Trustee and President of the National Middle School Association (NMSA), now AMLE. He was an important part of school improvement and the professional cadre initiatives of NMSA.

Currently, Santo is the Director of Pino Educational Consulting, Inc. and his areas of expertise include middle level education, parent involvement, school improvement and evaluation, and more. He also served as interim Executive Director of NMSA in 2010 until a permanent replacement could be selected. As Executive Director, he navigated NMSA through a transitionary time, and is one of the reasons AMLE continues as a strong organization today.

Frances “Fran” Salyers was a dedicated, collaborative, and caring leader of the middle school movement. After 27 years as a seventh and eighth grade teacher and 7 years with the Kentucky Department of Education, Fran continued to serve as an advisor for Eastern Kentucky University. During her career, she also held a wide range of leadership roles with local and national organizations, including Executive Director of the Kentucky Middle School Association, co-director of the Kentucky Schools to Watch, President of the National Middle School Association (now AMLE), member of the NMSA Publications Committee, and most recently as Chair of the AMLE Foundation Fund Committee. In her role with the AMLE Foundation Fund, she collaborated on the development of the Legacy Circle and Collaborative Mini-Grants. She presented and served key roles at dozens of AMLE annual conference and also worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the National Schools to Watch conference. Fran Salyers impacted the lives of thousands of student and educators within her community and across the country. Her contributions are appreciated and admired, and will be remembered.

Janet Melinda (Linda) Hopping
Janet Melinda (Linda) Hopping began her middle school career in the 1960s as a 6th and 8th grade teacher in Colorado. However, most of her middle school professional experience was in Georgia. Linda taught on an 8th Grade interdisciplinary team at Sandy Springs Middle School, the pilot middle school in the Fulton County School System surrounding Atlanta. Linda was named Fulton County Middle School Curriculum and Staff Development Coordinator. Linda became Assistant Principal at Paul D. West Middle School followed by her appointment as principal at Holcomb Bridge, a new middle school. After eight years at Holcomb Bridge, Linda took the reins as principal of Crabapple Middle School where she remained until her retirement. While working full time, Linda made numerous additional contributions to middle level education serving as an instructor for Fulton County Staff Development, teaching Nature and Needs of the Adolescent Learner, Director of Atlanta Olympic Day in the Schools, co-author of Interdisciplinary Olympic Curriculum, and led the task force for the 1996 Olympic Games. A highlight was Linda’s selection as the United States representative to the International Olympic Academy in Olympia, Greece. She was the author of Middle School Programs that Work (Kappan, 2000). Linda served as Executive Director of Georgia Middle School Association for 17 years and during her lengthy span, GMSA thrived and annual conferences experienced high attendance with an array of outstanding presentations. Linda was selected as president and treasurer of GMSA. Linda served on the NMSA Board of Trustees as Georgia’s representative and the NMSA Foundation Fund (currently AMLE). She has presented at state and national conferences and has served as a trainer and consultant.

Linda is the recipient of several awards. She received the President’s Award three times from GMSA, Georgia Association of Middle School Principals Dr. John H. Lounsbury Award for Outstanding Service Promoting Middle Level Education in Georgia, and a new GMSA Award entitled Distinguished Administrative Leadership in Middle Level Education and named The Linda Hopping Award. Linda was the first recipient and the award may be given to other members of GMSA meeting this achievement. Linda received the original National Forum’s Distinguished Leadership Award. She was honored with a lifetime membership to GMSA and lifetime membership to the Georgia PTA.

After retiring, Linda continued working and advocating for middle level education. Linda was instrumental in leading a committee that completed an extensive application for Georgia to become a state School to Watch. Georgia’s application was unanimously accepted. Georgia was one of three of the first School to Watch States. Linda remains Director of the Georgia Schools to Watch. She was chairperson of the oversight committee of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle - Grades Reform.

Linda was co-author of the NMSA Toolkit and was a lead consultant. The National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform received the Investing in Innovation (i)3 grant from the USDE to use the criteria of the Schools to Watch program in low-performing middle schools in 3 states in an effort to help them become better. Through this grant, Linda served as a coach for underperforming middle schools in California and continued for several years after the grant expired. Linda is a faculty member of the AMLE Leadership Institute. She has recently co-taught an online course for collegiate middle school students. Part of the course included the book study guide for the newly published This We Believe which she developed.

Middle level education is indebted to Linda Hopping for her leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them. In honoring Linda, Dr. John H. Lounsbury stated that “She has served middle school education in so many diverse ways, so consistently, and for so long that she is without parallel. A sterling ambassador and an outspoken advocate she has carried the middle school message all over the state and beyond”.

Judith Allen Brough
Dr. Judith Allen Brough is nationally and widely recognized and highly respected for her career-long contributions to improving middle level education. Her personal and professional dedication to improve life and learning for that age group stemmed from her experiences as a successful middle school teacher in New Jersey and Pennsylvania school districts. An active member of the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education (formerly Pennsylvania Middle School Association), she met and worked with Donald H. Eichhorn, and was later chosen to write about Dr. Eichhorn's journey in the Founders Series of Middle School Journal ("Donald H. Eichhorn: Pioneer in Inventing Schools for Transescents," March 1994). She completed her doctorate in curriculum planning at the University at Buffalo with distinction and successfully taught undergraduate and graduate middle level courses while she was there. After doing post-doctoral work with Dr. Al Arth at the University of Wyoming, she became a university professor and department chair in undergraduate and graduate middle school teacher education at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania and then at Gettysburg College. She also taught courses on middle level education during summer sessions at the University of Wyoming, University of Montana, and Lehigh University. For more than 30 years, her teaching, research, publications, and presentations have had a positive influence on improving life and learning for young adolescents.

Judith's many publications, consultations, and presentations center on characteristics of young adolescents, middle level students at risk (whom she describes as "at-promise"), middle level teacher preparation, motivation, assessment, parent involvement, reflective thinking, middle level literature studies, historical foundations of middle school, middle level curriculum considerations, transition from middle to high school, and building a positive middle level culture. Her presentations and consultations include those at local, county, state, university, national, and international venues. She was a traveling middle level scholar in Australia in 2001.

Selected Professional Activities:

• National Middle School Association/AMLE - papers accepted and presented at annual conferences, 1989 through 2012, including 4 years of pre-conference workshops. Chair, Family Advocacy Committee, Committee of Chairs, 1990-96; On-site Professional Development Team 2004-2007; member of Professional Preparation Advisory Committee, co-author of NMSA's philosophy statement on transition.
• Received the NMSA John H. Lounsbury Award in 2012
• National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)- member of Middle Level Council 1990-1996; presentations at annual conferences, 1990-96, 2003, 2007, 2008. Invited speaker for Middle Level Leaders, 2008.
• Recipient of the NASSP Gruhn-Long-Melton Award
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development - co-facilitator of Middle Level Network, 1996 to 2007. Papers accepted and presented at annual conferences, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007.
• Association of Teacher Educators - papers accepted and presented, 1999, 2000. Invited to co-author publications for ATE and for its PA affiliate, PAC-TE.
• Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education – William Alexander Award
• Dissertation Committee Member, outside reader, University of Wisconsin, Lehigh University, Immaculata University. 2000 to present.
• Gettysburg College- Distinguished Teaching Award, 2008
• Girls' Leadership Conference - steering committee member and co-founder of conference for all seventh grade girls in Adams County, PA. Co-sponsored by Adams County school counselors, Gettysburg Hospital, Penn Laurel Girl Scout Council, and Gettysburg College Education Department, annually 2004-2008.
• Reviewer for Current Issues in Middle Level Education and Research in Middle Level Education.
• Co-curriculum writer. Discovering the Science of Alcohol. JMH Enterprises. Secured grant from U.S. Dept. of Health. 2005.
• Most recent books, co-authored with Sherell Bergmann and published by Eye on Education include:
  • Teach Me, I Dare You!
  • Lead Me I Dare You!
  • Teach My Kid, I Dare You!
  • Reducing the Risk, Increasing the Promise: Strategies for Student Success

Middle level education is forever indebted to Judith Allen Bough for her leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Pauline Pavlick
Dedicated, organized, collaborative, caring, creative and self-assured are that describe Pauline Pavlick. Her contributions are deeply woven into the fabric of the L'Anse Creuse community and beyond. During the 1970s, Pauline was a pioneer for parent participation in educational programing. Her efforts led the way for parent participation on curriculum committees in the district as well as in state, regional, and national organizations. L'Anse Creuse opened these organizations and conventions to parents at school district expense thus encouraging parent participation and mutual respect in our partnership for a better education.

Middle level education has benefited from her professionalism, dedication, creativity, and commitment. She worked vigorously and loyally, and gave her best efforts to promote parent involvement to meet the needs of our middle level students.

A sampling of Pauline's accomplishments:

Michigan Association of Middle School Educators (MAMSE). Founded in 1971, MAMSE is the oldest middle level professional organization in the country. Members include all who are interested in the education of young adolescents

• • MAMSE Board of Directors, 1975 – 1981
• MAMSE President's Award, 1975-76
• MAMSE State Conference Committee 1977, hosted by L'Anse Creuse Public Schools
• MAMSE Parent of the Year Award, 1980-81
• MAMSE Hall of Fame Award, 1981-82

Association of Middle Level Education (formerly National Middle School Association)

• At the 1976 St. Louis conference Pauline was recognized as the first parent member of NMSA
• She participated in an ad hoc committee to research methods of increasing involvement of parents and teachers in 1976. Pauline suggested in her recommendations a journal selection, "Tried and True," a teacher-to-parent, parent-to-teacher tips list on how to improve community and middle school relations for the betterment of the child. She also recommended that the editor of the Journal publish a position statement supporting greater parental involvement in NMSA. Pauline provided a list of items needed for parent, school, and association communications.
• Author of "Parents as Educational Partners," from Middle School Journal, Volume 8, 1977. L'Anse Creuse district's view of how a school district can encourage parent participation and mutual respect in our partnership for a better education by recruiting and involving parents in the educational planning of schools.
• Board of Directors, 1978 (first parent to hold Board status).
• Conference Chairperson - The first parent to chair a National NMSA Conference. The organizational structure of the 1979 conference established by Pauline was a model for future conferences. The 1979 conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dearborn, MI, October 31-November 3, 1979, which was the most luxurious and impressive conference site of all past NMSA conferences and had the second highest attendance to date, a total of 1,636 participants.
• Elected vice-president, 1980, and served as membership coordinator.

Pauline Pavlick has impacted the lives of thousands of students and the community. Her contributions are appreciated and admired. Middle level education is forever indebted to Pauline Pavlick for her dedication, creativity, commitment and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Rick Wormeli
One of the first Nationally Board Certified teachers in America, Rick brings innovation, energy, validity, and high standards to both his presentations and his instructional practice, which include 39 years teaching math, science, English, physical education, health, and history, as well as coaching teachers and principals. Rick's work has been reported in numerous media, including ABC's Good Morning America, Hardball with Chris Matthews, National Geographic and Good Housekeeping magazines, What Matters Most: Teaching for the 21st Century, and the Washington Post. He is a columnist for AMLE Magazine and a frequent contributor to ASCD's Educational Leadership magazine. He is the author of the award-winning book Meet Me in the Middle as well as the best-selling books Day One and Beyond, Fair Isn't Always Equal: Assessment and Grading in the Differentiated Classroom (second edition), Differentiation: From Planning to Practice and Metaphors & Analogies: Power Tools for Teaching any Subject, all five from Stenhouse Publishers, as well as Summarization in any Subject: 60 Innovative and Tech-Infused Strategies for Deeper Student Learning published by ASCD. His book, published by AMLE, The Collected Writings (So Far) of Rick Wormeli: Crazy Good Stuff I Learned about Teaching Along the Way, is a collection of his published articles, guest blogs, and more through 2013. His classroom practice is a showcase for ASCD's best-selling series, At Work in the Differentiated Classroom.

With his substantive presentations, sense of humor and unconventional approaches, he has been asked to present to teachers and administrators in all 50 states, Canada, China, Europe, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, Korea, Australia, the Middle East, and at the White House. He is a seasoned veteran of many international webcasts, and he is Disney's American Teacher Awards 1996 Outstanding English Teacher of the Nation. He won the 2008 James P. Garvin award from the New England League of Middle Schools for Teaching Excellence, Service, and Leadership, and he has been a consultant for National Public Radio, USA Today, Court TV and the Smithsonian Institution's Natural Partners Program and their search for the giant squid.

Because of his motivating, practical ideas, he has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of middle schoolers across the world. His dedication to advocating for middle level youth and those who serve them is appreciated and admired. Middle level education has benefited from his dedication, creativity, and commitment.

Sherrel Bergmann
Dr. Sherrel K. Bergmann, recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award in 1999, is widely recognized for her advocacy for young adolescents and their educators. Her dozens of publications and presentations focus mainly on young adolescent social and emotional development and educational programs that directly address the needs of students.

Sherrel studied and worked with Dr. Gordon Vars at Kent State University where she earned her doctoral degree. She went on to teach in and chair the Education Department at Lake Forest College, and in 1978 she moved to National Louis University where she served as associate dean of the graduate school and director of the Middle Level Curriculum Center. She established middle level teacher education programs at both Lake Forest and National Louis, and at National Louis she designed and taught middle level courses for masters and doctoral students.

Sherrel was a co-founder and president of the Association of Illinois Middle Schools (AIMS) and was the organization's representative to the NMSA Board of Trustees in 1978. She received the AIMS Robert Knight Award in 2001. She also served NMSA as co-chair of the Research Committee, member of the Professional Preparation Advisory Board, member of the Critical Issues Committee, and member of the Revision Task Force for This We Believe.

When NASSP developed a Middle Level Council, Sherrel joined Don Eichhorn, John Lounsbury, Conrad Toepfer, Al Arth, and Howard Johnston as the first female representative. In 2001, NASSP presented her with the Gruhn-Long-Melton Award for her distinguished service and leadership in improving middle level education.

The following are her most recent published books, which she co-authored with Judith Brough (published by Eye on Education).

• Teach Me, I Dare You!
• Lead Me, I Dare You!
• Teach My Kid, I Dare You!
• Reducing the Risk, Increasing the Promise: Strategies for Student Success

Her NEA publication, Decision-Making Skills for Middle School Students (1985), and NASSP's Discipline and Guidance: The Thin Line in Middle School (1989) advised countless educators in meeting young adolescent needs. And in 1994, Conrad Toepfer asked Sherrel to author his story for the Middle School Journal's Founders Series, "Conrad F. Toepfer, Jr: The Jazz Man of Middle Level Education."

For more than 30 years Sherrel served as a long-term consultant to middle schools, state middle school associations, universities, summer middle school institutes, health publications for middle school students, and community organizations that serve young adolescents. Upon her retirement, she volunteered as a counselor at her local middle school.

Dr. Bergmann's work has positively impacted scores of young adolescents, their middle level schools and their educators.

Bruce Bailey
Bruce Bailey has been the legal counsel for the Association for Middle Level Education since its earliest days and has consistently been of invaluable help and service to the growth and development of the association and to the advocacy of young adolescents. His many contributions over the years have contributed to the growth and success of the association, going well beyond the typical work and time commitment of legal advisors.

Since its beginning, AMLE (formerly National Middle School Association) has gone through two major governance restructuring phases and several more minor adjustments. In each case, Bruce worked diligently with the committees tasked to develop the new plan and the Board as it considered its implications and made recommendations to the membership for their consideration and vote. Each restructure reflected the growth and needs of the association at that particular time. Bruce's ensured the association met the legal requirements of a non-profit organization as well as its original purpose and goals. His historical knowledge of the association brought important insights to those discussions and plans.

As the association grew so did its staff and the need for increased office space. Bruce's experience and knowledge of the greater Columbus area was of great help as the headquarters relocated to several different locations. Bruce was an integral part of the negotiations and lease contract development in each instance.

The AMLE Foundation exists today in large measure because of Bruce's leadership. He was the person who introduced the idea of a foundation to the Board of Trustees and he has volunteered many hours working with a task force to ensure its successful development and implementation.

Over the years Bruce has held the publications and professional development initiatives of the association in high regard. While he had obvious involvement in various publication and professional site location contracts from a legal standpoint, he supported both areas by personally providing scholarships for the attendance of Westerville schools staff and administration to attend AMLE conferences as well as providing them with publications he felt would be of help. Bruce regularly attends the annual conference and has hosted gatherings for AMLE/NMSA past presidents.

AMLE/NMSA has benefited from the dedication, commitment, and involvement of Bruce Bailey. Bruce fully understands the association's mission and has worked tirelessly over the years to help the association meet the needs of members and the young adolescents they work with on a daily basis.

J. Howard Johnston
Dr. J. Howard Johnston is widely recognized and respected for his commitment to young adolescents as well as his leadership in middle level education. He is a sound researcher and author of more than 100 journal articles, research reports, book chapters, books, and other professional publications. He has delivered keynote addresses and provided professional development at middle level conferences in all 50 states as well as in Europe, Asia, South America, and other regions of the world. His interests include school achievement and productive behavior of learners, the diversity of the American population, the need to structure schools for success, and the use of technology in challenging environments. Johnston is a brilliant teacher, a much sought-after mentor, and an eloquent speaker. He has been recognized for his manifold and valued services to the cause of young adolescents and their education, whether expressed in writings, oral presentations, consultations, research studies, scholarly treatises, or classroom teaching, all emanating from a personhood of decency and quality.

Selected Accomplishments and Contributions to Middle Level Education

• Founder of the column What Research says to the Middle Level Practitioner in the Middle Level Journal (1979)
• Member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Council on Middle Level Education (1981–1996)
• Lead author for NASSP's An Agenda for Excellence at the Middle Level (1984)
• Received the NMSA Presidential Award (1985)
• Member of the NMSA Board of Trustees (1987–1989)
• Received the NASSP William Gruhn-Forrest Long Award for distinguished service and leadership in middle level education (1996)
• Charter member of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform (1997–2000)
• Team Leader for the High School Principals' Partnership sponsored by Union Pacific (2001–2011)
• Received the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (2003)

Middle level education is forever indebted to J. Howard Johnston for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Jack Berckemeyer
A nationally-recognized presenter, author, and humorist, Jack Berckemeyer, began his career as a middle school teacher in Denver, Colorado. After two years of teaching he was named as an outstanding educator at his school, and shortly thereafter he was identified as one of the outstanding educators in the district. In 2003, he received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the Falcon School District. Jack brings his energy, humor, and expertise to all staff development as he helps teachers and administrators remember why this job makes a difference. Jack has presented in conference and school district settings both nationally and internationally. Jack served as a judge for the Disney American Teacher Awards and served on the selection committee for the USA TODAY All-Teacher Team.

Jack Berckemeyer is known for his motivating, practical ideas communicating a message of hope, laughter, and insight into education.

Jack was also the Assistant Executive Director for the National Middle School Association for 13 years and is the author of Managing the Madness: A Practical Guide to Middle Grades Classrooms. He is also the co-author of H.E.L.P. for Teachers. His most recent publications are Taming of the Team: How Great Teams Work Together and Deliberate Optimism: Reclaiming the Joy in Education, co-authored with Dr. Debbie Silver and Judith Baenen.

Jack is the Owner and Director of NUTS and BOLTS – Ready to Lead, Teach, and Learn Conference located in Destin, Florida and Denver, Colorado.

Jack lives in Denver, Colorado and has no pets or plants.

Suzette Johnson to Jack C Berckemeyer January 9, 2019 "It was great to talk to you today. You've truly transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of middle schoolers across the world. I'm forever grateful for how you've changed and shaped my practice!"

Lisa Cushman Assistant Principal - Brunswick Junior High School "Jack is one of the few educational 'gurus' that can truly deliver on the promises. He is what any school who is striving to meet the needs of every student through the development of highly functional teams needs."

Because of his motivating, practical ideas Jack has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of middle schoolers across the world. His dedication to advocating for middle level youth and those who serve them is appreciated and admired.

Middle level education is forever indebted to Jack Berckemeyer for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Louis G. Romano
Dr. Louis G. Romano is the founder of the Michigan Association of Middle School Educators (MAMSE). He served as the executive director from 1972 until 1995. He also was part of the Midwest Middle School Association, which later became National Middle School Association, and served as the president of National Middle School Association (now known as the Association for Middle Level Education) in 1978–79. Dr. Romano was a professor at Michigan State University and taught one of the nation's first graduate programs in middle level education. He gave of his time and energy to enlighten educators and the general public about the most developmentally appropriate methods for teaching young adolescents.

Dr. Romano has impacted the lives of thousands of middle level youth, the profession, and the community. He was part of the golden age of middle schools. His dedication to advocating for middle level youth and those who serve them is appreciated and admired.

Dr. Romano funded the scholarship that bears his name in 1992. He retired as MAMSE's executive director in 1995. To date, 37 students in Michigan middle schools have benefited from Dr. Romano's generosity.

Louis Romano, professor emeritus at Michigan State University, passed away September 30, 2013, at the age of 92.

Writings by Dr. Romano:

• The Middle School Distinction Louis G. Romano, Nicholas Peter Georgiady Phi Delta Kappa Educational Foundation, 1997 –
• The Middle School: Selected Readings on an Emerging School Program Louis G. Romano, Nicholas Peter Georgiady, James Eudean Heald Nelson-Hall Company, 1973
• Building an Effective Middle School Louis G. Romano, Nicholas Peter Georgiady WCB Brown & Benchmark Publishers, 1994
• Filmstrip and cassette presentations, "Changing a Junior High to A Middle School," with Georgiady, and "The Middle School: A Humanizing Effort," with Addie Kinsinger.
• Focus Papers on a variety of topics published by Michigan Association of Middle School Educators
• 125 children's books
• Link to other writings https://eric.ed.gov/?q=Louis+G.+Romano

Middle level education is forever indebted to Louis G. Romano for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

April Tibbles
AMLE's publications have played a key role in the development of the association. They have been a major means of spreading the middle school message, not only to our members but to the profession at large and the public. In addition, their contribution to the income of AMLE has been critical and indispensable. April Tibbles has been instrumental in growing the global reputation of our publications.

Just like the students we serve, April experienced the tremendous growth spurt of AMLE which was accompanied by social emotional and physical changes. From a house with three employees to a huge office with more than thirty; from a mom and pop operation to a multi-million dollar business.

April Tibbles started her career at AMLE at the headquarters that was a house in Columbus. She worked in the mail room (dining room) and general office (living room) and the upstairs that was used for storage of all NMSA publications and supplies. She helped prepare the journal for mailing and fill book orders as well as making trips to the UPS office several times per week. As the association expanded so did April's duties. From 1986 through 1997 she held several positions with the following responsibilities:

• Oversaw production of all association printed materials including periodicals and marketing pieces
• Supervised design and editorial staff
• Contracted with vendors for printing and photography
• Art directed photo shoots
• Planned, purchased, and facilitated development of all advertisements

April serves as Chief Communications Officer as well as editor of AMLE Magazine and AMLE Newsletter. Other responsibilities since 2003 include:

• Publish two peer-reviewed journals, a quarterly magazine and books
• Manage off-site editors, planning publication themes and messages, determining cover and internal layout, proofreading, research and contracting with vendors
• Market AMLE books and other products – develop 4-5 printed catalogs per year, Web messages, and semi-monthly e-mail messages
• Write Web content and advise on social media content
• Serve as staff liaison and ex-officio member of three advisory boards

Accepting fully the association's mission, April works vigorously and loyally. She gives her best efforts to meet the needs of our members and of middle level education generally.

Middle level education is forever indebted to April Tibbles for her dedication, creativity, commitment and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Bev Cook
Bev Cook began her service to AMLE in 1982 when headquarters was a house in Columbus, OH. Her work area was the reception and general office in the living room and the dining room served as the mail room. She maintained the membership records on file cards alphabetically by state. She prepared journals for mailing, filled book orders, maintained membership files, and also did accounts payable and receivable, conference registration, newsletter production, phone coverage, picking up the mail at the post office box, general maintenance and cleaning, and any other task that might arise.

She expanded her skills and productivity when a computer system arrived in 1985 so membership records could be stored and labels and lists could be produced. The original card file was maintained and had to be used several times to restore files after the computer crashed. Many computerized functions considered marvels of technology would come later and Bev's skills continued to multiply.

As membership grew so did the staff and Bev was involved with helping with the selection, renovation and expansion of the Evanswood Drive offices as well as moves to Corporate Exchange Drive and Executive Parkway. Although individuals began to become devoted primarily to certain jobs everyone worked on the annual conference and pitched in where ever there was a need. The teaming concept prevailed in headquarters with staff members organized in teams according to major focus of service. Staff members communicated constantly, supported one another, and produced high quality products and services, all done in an atmosphere that is both caring and business-like.

Bev became more specialized serving with the Professional Development Team in several capacities eventually becoming Assistant Director of Professional Development. She worked with selecting conference locations, hotels, exhibitors; meeting with local committees; handling conference registrations both at the office and on-site at the annual conference; and organizing the process for presentation selection. Other professional development activities such as weekend workshops, regional workshops and special topic workshops were also offered both in the US and abroad.

Just like the students we serve, Bev experienced the tremendous growth spurt of AMLE which was accompanied by social emotional and physical changes. From a house with two employees to a huge office with more than thirty; from a mom and pop operation to a multi-million dollar business.

AMLE has benefited from the dedication, creativity and commitment of Bev Cook. Accepting fully the association's mission, she has worked vigorously and loyally, and has given her best efforts to meet the needs of our members and of middle level education generally.

Middle level education is forever indebted to Bev Cook for her extraordinary work ethic and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Nancy Doda
Widely recognized for her devotion to improving the lives and education of young adolescents, Dr. Nancy M. Doda has provided middle level consulting services in all 50 states as well as in Canada, Europe, the Far East, and Australia She has conducted thousands of workshops, professional development experiences, and institutes. Well known for her engaging and inspiring speeches, Doda has also contributed significantly to professional literature including the Teacher to Teacher column in the Middle School Journal form 1976 to 1980, co-authoring NEA's long-time bestseller, Team Organization: Promise, Practice and Possibility, and a similarly long-standing publication of the National Middle School Association (NMSA)., Treasure Chest. In addition to publications suited for practitioners, she has written several research publications including an anchor essay on Middle School Equity in The Encyclopedia of Middle School Education, as well as a case study collection, Transforming Ourselves: Transforming Schools. Numerous articles and forwards complement her written contributions. Dr Doda is a well-known and highly regarded consultant who is in great demand as a conference speaker and workshop leader. In recent years, while Nancy continues to address large groups, and offer traditional workshops, she frequently works directly with school staff (eg; teachers and administrators) customizing professional development to address curricula and instructional improvement. The focus of this recent work has been on achieving powerful student learning through superior curriculum design and development, empowering students as a central focus of powerful learning, and coaching teachers in the design and implementation of student-centered instruction.

Her passion for teaching, her love of children, and her commitment to the improvement of middle schools has made her a household name among middle school educators.

• Delivered the first keynote address given by a teacher at NMSA Annual Conference in 1977 and gave keynote addresses in 1984 and 1989
• NMSA Board of Directors (1987 – 1992)
• Received the New England League of Middle Schools Distinguished Service Award (1989)
• Received the Connecticut Association of Secondary School Principals Special Recognition Award (1990)
• Received the Virginia Middle School Association Distinguished Service Award (1996)
• Charter member of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform (1997 – 2002)
• Received the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (2001)

Middle level education is forever indebted to Nancy M. Doda for hers leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Paul George
Paul George is widely recognized both nationally and internationally for his expertise in and passion for middle level education. Starting his career as a junior high and high school teacher, Paul has spent more than 40 years as a teacher, trainer, and professor in public schools, universities, human service organizations, and corporations. He has volunteered as a public school teacher one week each semester for the last 35 years. In his role as a consultant, Paul has worked with education groups of all kinds in nearly 50 states and in 15 countries: Bermuda, China, Greece, Germany, France, The Netherlands, Canada, Czech Republic, Japan, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Tanzania, Turkey, Kenya, and the NATO organization. He has served as a consultant to 50 of the 150 largest school districts in America. As a public speaker, he has addressed a total audience numbering more than 100,000 people at state, national, and international conferences, workshops, and meetings, including guest lectures at 26 universities in America, Canada, France, and Japan in the last 30 years.

Paul has conducted research in Japan on educational productivity through a grant from the Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science. Identified by Middle School Journal as the "number one ranking scholar" in the field of middle school education through a survey of 241 American university professors and deans. Paul has published 10 books and approximately 150 monographs, book chapters, journal articles, and multimedia materials. His books have been adopted as textbooks in dozens of universities and school districts, three of which were described by Middle School Journal as "classics in the field." The American Association of School Administrators referred to Paul George as "the foremost expert on middle schools in the country." Additionally, Paul is one of the recipients of the Association for Middle Level Education Lounsbury Award for lifetime achievement in middle school education.

John Swaim
While Dr. John H. Swaim was president of National Middle School Association (NMSA) in 1980, he realized the need for having a comprehensive clarifying document that defined this new middle school.  He, therefore, appointed an NMSA committee to develop a position paper.  The work of this committee led to publication of the first This We Believe in 1982.  This historic and influential document has since been revised and released in 1995, 2003, and 2010.  Swaim was also a pioneer in the advocacy for specialized middle level teacher preparation and middle level teacher certification/licensure. The middle level teacher preparation program he developed at the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley (UNC-G), was one of the first middle level teacher preparation programs in the nation and served as a model for many other early preparation programs.  During his tenure as professor at UNC-G, Dr. Swaim provided leadership for establishment of the first campus organization for prospective middle level teachers.  This lead to the development of the Collegiate Middle Level Association, which became an affiliate member of NMSA in 1989. He also served on the NMSA task force that wrote the first national standards for middle level teacher preparation – The National Middle School Association/National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education Approved Middle Level Teacher Preparation Standards. As a professor at Otterbein College in Ohio, he helped design and implement successful middle level teacher preparation programs and provided leadership in the establishment of middle level teacher certification in the state of Ohio before his retirement in 2007.  Swaim's strong commitment to middle level youth and those adults who work to guide and teach them have impacted the lives of thousands.

Sue Swaim
During her 14 years of service (1993-2007) as executive director of National Middle School Association (NMSA), Sue Swaim provided distinguished leadership that saw the association gain new heights of national and international prominence and influence.  Her tenure was highlighted by many notable events and achievements including the establishment of a satellite office in Washington, D.C., the initiation and continued celebration of October as the Month of the Young Adolescent, and the establishment of collaborative relationships and joint projects with other national organizations.  She also provided leadership for the relocation and expansion in facilities and personnel of NMSA's headquarters, a doubling of membership, and the development of Success in the Middle:  A Policymaker's Guide to Achieving Quality Middle Level Education, a major policy statement based on This We Believe.  Swaim instituted the development of the second and third editions of This We Believe and was one of the writers in the development of the third and fourth editions.  During her tenure as executive director of NMSA, the number of state and provincial affiliate organizations expanded to include nearly every state, Canadian provinces, and several other countries.  Upon her retirement, the NMSA Board of Trustees recognized her contributions by granting her the status of executive director emeritus. Ms. Swaim is a popular speaker who has made keynote addresses and presentations across the nation and in Canada, China, and New Zealand.  She is the author or co-author of more than 70 professional publications and a sought after consultant who remains active in middle level education.  Sue Swaim is a great role model and mentor for showing how well the middle school philosophy can be put into practice.

Thomas "Tom" O. Erb
As editor of the Middle School Journal from 1994 to 2009, Dr. Thomas Erb took National Middle School Association's (NMSA) flagship publication through expansion and improvement. He is also author and co-author of more than 90 professional publications including journal articles, book chapters, books, research reports, monographs, occasional papers, and columns. Much of his published work focuses on middle level teacher preparation, interdisciplinary teaming, and middle school curriculum. He has also presented at several hundred national and international conferences and served as consultant to more than 200 school districts, higher education institutions, policy-making groups, agencies, and other groups. A scholar, researcher, writer, philosopher, advocate, curriculum specialist, administrator and foremost, a teacher, Tom Erb's dedicated service to middle school education and the NMSA has been both extensive and significant. Dr. Erb will be greatly missed by his friends at AMLE.

• Member of the NMSA Board of Directors (1983 – 1986), Ex-Officio member of the NMSA Publications Committee (1994 – 2009)
• Editor, The Journal of the Kansas Association for Middle Level Education (1987 – 1994)
• Chair of the NMSA Professional Preparation Advisory Board (1990-1994)
• Edited The NMSA Founders Series for the Middle School Journal (1990 – 1994)
• NMSA Manuscript Review Board for Research in Middle Level Education Online (1991 – 2011)
• Honored by having KAMLE establish the Thomas O. Erb Award for Excellence in Teaming (1993)
• Received the John Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (2008)
• Member of the AMLE Foundation Fund Committee (2013 - 2015)

Middle level education is forever indebted to Thomas O. Erb for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Alfred A. Arth
Dr. Alfred A. Arth has carried the message of the importance of developmentally responsive middle schools to a wide range of audiences since the beginning of the middle school movement.  Arth was a prolific speaker and author, having published more than 100 books and articles. He taught in teacher preparation programs at York College, the University of Wyoming, the University of Virginia, and the University of Nebraska. In Nebraska, Arth developed one of the first doctoral level middle school programs, organized summer middle level academies (Kids on Campus), and instituted many other special activities. He was a support and inspiration to many aspiring teachers on their paths to becoming great middle grades teachers.  Dr. Arth will be greatly missed by his friends at AMLE.

• Chaired the committee that wrote the first edition of the NMSA publication This We Believe (1982).
• A founding member of NASSP's Middle Level Council ( 1981-1995).
• Received the Distinguished Professional |Service |Award, NASSP (1981-1995).
• NMSA Board of Trustee member (1988-89), chaired a national committee for NMSA (1988), member of the Research in Middle Level Education Editorial Board, NMSA.
• Received the NASSP Gruhn-Long-Melton Award for distinguished service and leadership in improving middle level education (1997).
• Co-authored Agenda for Excellence at the Middle Level for NASSP (1998).
• Received the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (2007).
• Received the Network Publication Award:  Middle Grades Network, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (2007).
• Consultant to Native American tribes in Nebraska.

Middle level education is forever indebted to Alfred A. Arth for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

C. Kenneth "Ken" McEwin
Dr. C. Kenneth McEwin is recognized as the leading authority in middle level teacher preparation.  He has conducted many research studies on teacher preparation and written extensively about the importance of specialized professional preparation for teachers of young adolescents.  Dr. McEwin is author of more than 150 books, monographs, book chapters, journal articles, and other publications focusing on middle level education. For more than 20 years he has served as the Association for Middle Level Education (previously National Middle School Association) coordinator for the national review of middle level teacher preparation programs seeking national recognition as part of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education accreditation process.  McEwin provided leadership for the development of specialized middle level teacher preparation programs at Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina, and in 1975 the undergraduate and graduate programs there were among the first middle level preparation programs in the nation.  Dr. McEwin served as the coordinator for undergraduate and graduate middle grades education at Appalachian State University for 22 years.  He is currently (2011) Professor of Curriculum and Instruction and Coordinator of Graduate Middle Grades Teacher Preparation at Appalachian State University.
McEwin's abiding hallmark has been his persisting concern about "what is good for kids and improving life and education for young adolescents.”  His honest humility about the lasting impact of his work is respected.

• A founder of the North Carolina Middle School Association (NCMSA) (1981).
• First Executive Director of NCMSA.
• First editor of NCMSA Journal.
• President of NMSA (1983).
• Received the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (1989).
• Member of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Committee that wrote the first Early Adolescence Generalist Standards\Member of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform (1997-2008).
• Member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals National Task Force on Middle Level Leadership (2005-2008).
• Presented at many professional organization conferences including the Association for Middle Level Education, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, National Association of Secondary School Principals, and the European League for Middle Level Education.

Middle level education is forever indebted to C. Kenneth McEwin for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Kathy Hunt-Ullock
Kathy Hunt Ullock has been involved in middle level education since 1973 as a math teacher, team leader, curriculum coordinator, assistant principal, director of staff development, and a consultant based in Ohio, Florida, Colorado, and Washington State.  She was a true BELIEVER in middle level education.  She was a champion of teachers and administrators on their paths to becoming great middle grades professionals with her support and inspiration.  Kathy Hunt Ullock will be greatly missed by her friends at AMLE.

• Member of a ten person team to plan the philosophy, program, and physical plant of an exemplary middle school in Broomfield, Colorado (1982).
• Member of a six person team from the United States to present at the first European conference on middle level education held in Brussels, Belgium in 1987. Kathy made a return visit in 2001 to keynote the same conference held in Budapest, Hungary.
• Consulted for the National Resource Center for Middle Grades Education at the University of South Florida in Tampa. A result of this affiliation led to her assisting the American Department of Defense schools in Germany and England with their conversion to middle school philosophy, programs, and practices.
• Received "The Award of Distinction' 'from the College of Education at The Ohio State University for her work with middle level students and teachers (1997).
• Well known for her humor and practical "hands-on” approach, Kathy has presented at schools and conferences in 48 states and 16 foreign countries.
• President and founder of Creative Solutions, which specializes in innovative programs and practices at the middle level.
• Featured presenter on teaming in two CDs published by AMLE (NMSA).
• Coauthored two books, Because You Teach and Middle School Matters with Debbie Silver, Rick Wormeli, and Monte Selby.

Middle level education is forever indebted to Kathy Hunt Ullock for her leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Conrad F. Toepfer, Jr.
The contributions that Conrad F. Toepfer, Jr. has made to middle level education are manifold and profound. He is a distinguished scholar, visionary educator, and long-time proponent of middle level programs, practices, and schools that recognize and respect the rights and educational welfare of young adolescents.  He is a staunch advocate of social justice, children's rights, and all aspects of authentic middle level curriculum reform. Since the inception of the middle school idea, Toepfer has been a powerful voice for human rights and the need to help young adolescents develop enduring positive attitudes about themselves and others. Human rights, equity, and democracy are themes that prevail throughout Dr. Toepfer's life and career. He believes that one of the most important central challenges to middle level education is educating moral citizens who can responsibly participate in a democratic society.

• Recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (1985)
• Instrumental in the founding of NMSA
• President of NMSA (1987-88)
• Chairman of the Middle Level Council of NASSP
• Edited the Quarterly Journal The Journal on Emerging Adolescents
• Edited the Journal Dissemination on the Middle Grades
• Recipient of the William Gruhn-Forrest Long Award for the National Association of Secondary School Principals (1986)
• Influential leader in New York State Middle School Association
• Recipient of the Louis E. Raths Award from the New York Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Middle level education is forever indebted to Conrad F. Toepfer, Jr. for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Donald H. Eichhorn
Donald H. Eichhorn provided a distinctive leadership role in the middle school movement. He was a pioneer in the implementation of developmentally responsive middle schools in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania, where he spent the first 26 years of his career. While serving as Assistant Superintendent, he worked with the principals of Fort Couch Middle School and Boyce Middle School to create middle schools that were multi-aged, with young adolescents grouped for instruction based on developmental readiness. These two middle schools served as early models for other school districts that were planning to create new middle schools.  In his 1966 book The Middle School, the first middle school book written, he used the term transescence, which he had coined, to give an identity to this level or stage of development which begins prior to the onset of puberty and extends through the early stages of adolescence.  A theme that always ran through his publications, professional presentations, and consultancies was the uniqueness of the age group and the need to base decisions about middle school curriculum, instruction, and schooling on that uniqueness.

• Provided distinctive leadership in the middle school movement
• Helped develop middle schools to serve as early models for others planning to implement middle school.
• Superintendent of the Lewisburg Area School District, Lewisburg, PA
• Author of The Middle School, the first middle school book written (1966)
• Recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award (1983)
• NMSA dedicated its 1991 Annual Conference to him
• PMSA established the Donald H. Eichhorn Award for Excellence in middle level education in his honor
• Lewisburg, Pennsylvania School District named an award-winning middle school in his honor, the Donald H. Eichhorn Middle School

Middle level education is forever indebted to Donald H. Eichhorn for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

Gordon F. Vars
Gordon F. Vars was a lifelong middle level education leader and friend of the Association for Middle Level Education.  He helped form the Midwest Middle School Association, which later became National Middle School Association (now AMLE), and served as its first president. He was a leading proponent of core curriculum, a person-centered, democratic approach to education, and helped form the National Association for Core Curriculum. Dr. Vars was on the writing team for the first edition of This We Believe, published in 1982, and he helped draft the first national standards for middle level teacher preparation. Of great importance to Dr. Vars was keeping in contact with young adolescents throughout his career. He originally taught eighth grade, but continued to teach in the middle school through his university career and in Sunday school classes. He was a prolific author of articles, books, and chapters and won several state and national awards.

• Involved in the creation of the Midwest Middle School Association and in its later conversion in 1973 into the National Middle School Association
• First President of National Middle School Association
• One of the authors of the first edition of This We Believe
• Recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (1987)
• A member of the Professional Preparation Advisory Board that wrote the first national standards for middle level teacher preparation
• Recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (1987)
• Played a significant role in the founding of the National Association for Core Curriculum 1954
• Recipient of the Ohio Middle School Educator Award which in 2001 was named in his honor.
• Author of many middle level articles, research reports and books

Middle level education is forever indebted to Gordon F. Vars for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

John H. Lounsbury
Throughout his long and distinguished career, John H. Lounsbury has been a constant, committed advocate for young adolescents as well as for those who teach and serve them in other ways. His leadership in middle level education spans a period of more than 60 years and includes exemplary teaching, mentoring, leadership, writing, editing, research, and professional service. He has significantly influenced the nature of contemporary middle level education. Because of his special contributions, values, and integrity, he has been referred to as the "conscience of the middle school."

• Edited the Middle School Journal (1976-1990)
• Chair of NMSA's Publications Committee (1985-2002) and Editor, Professional Publications (2002-present)
• Co-author of This We Believe
• Founder of the Professors of Middle Level Education, an affiliate organization of NMSA.
• Board of Directors, ASCD
• Co-Director of the Georgia Lighthouse Schools-to-Watch Program
• First recipient of an Award for Distinguished Service to Middle Level Education which became the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award (1978)
• Georgia State College and State University named the school of education the John H. Lounsbury School of Education (1997)
• Cited in the Congressional Record for his contributions to the field of middle level education

Middle level education is forever indebted to John H. Lounsbury for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.

William M. Alexander
Because of his pioneering work in the conceptualization and establishment of the middle school, Dr. William (Bill) M. Alexander is widely recognized as the "father of the middle school." He proposed the creation of middle schools in 1963 and conducted the first comprehensive national study of middle schools in 1968. Dr. Alexander's visionary research effort provided the baseline for subsequent studies of the implementation of middle school organization that provided a critical measure of the growth and implementation of programs and practices in middle schools over four decades.

• Senior author of one of the first books on middle school education
• World-renowned curriculum expert
• Co-authored The Emergent Middle School (1968)
• Co-authored The Exemplary Middle School (1981)
• Recipient of the John H. Lounsbury Distinguished Service Award from NMSA (1981)
• Helped develop the first This We Believe
• President, ASCD
• Member of NMSA's Critical Issues and Publications Committees

Middle level education is forever indebted to William M. Alexander for his leadership and lifelong efforts on behalf of young adolescents and those who teach them and serve them in other ways.