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Pennsylvania Middle

School Association

P.O. Box 7258

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

15213-0258

www.pmsaweb.org

As I sat down to write my final message as the president of PMSA, my thoughts went to our 2006 state conference theme, TEAM – Together Everyone Achieves More.  The growth of our organization that occurred during this school year was due to the dedication of an extraordinary team of educators working together to promote best practices for middle level education. 

 

We began this school year as the host affiliate for the NMSA National Middle School conference in Philadelphia.  A special thank you goes to the Pennsylvania team, led by Gail Heinemeyer and Chas Cognato, who helped NMSA with this event and also facilitated Act 48 credits for Pennsylvania teachers.

 

Our growth continued as the executive board began a new cycle for our Strategic Plan.  Under the direction of our executive director, Len Ference, new and exciting goals were established.  Work has begun on many of the initiatives and we invite you to visit our website, www.pmsaweb.org, to explore what’s new and take advantage of the opportunity to interact with other middle level educators across the state.

 

Another dynamic state team, comprised of representatives from PDE, Duquesne University, Gettysburg College, Lehigh University, and PMSA, was formed.  This team applied for and was accepted by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-

Grades Reform’s Schools to Watch Program.  As your school prepares to apply for the 2007 Eichhorn Award, watch for the transformation as it becomes the Eichhorn Schools to Watch program.  Plan to attend the annual Schools to Watch conference in June.  At the conference you can network with:

 

· educators from recognized Schools to Watch sites

· middle grades teams interested in becoming Schools to Watch

· educators

· education experts

· professors

· policymakers

 

It has been an honor to serve you as president.  I thank the executive board members, our executive director and our membership for the support and guidance that I have received throughout this year.  Best wishes to Karen Jez as she assumes the presidency.  Her leadership skills will undoubtedly advance the mission of PMSA – promoting best practices for middle level education.

 

Do you want to become more involved in PMSA?  Locate a board member from your region on our website.  Send an email asking how you can get involved!  I encourage you to join our team!