Middle School Working Group

Elevate’s Steering Committee recognizes that the middle school years are a period of significant change for both students and their families. It is a unique time when students are developing a more independent relationship to school and their families and are creating expectations for their futures. A positive middle school experience that includes appropriate supports and diverse opportunities can have long lasting impacts on social and emotional development, academic success, and educational attainment. Elevate seeks to ensure that every middle school student successfully transitions to a secondary education experience that meets their needs. To help achieve this goal, Elevate launched a Middle School Working Group in January 2021. The Middle School Working Group was given the following agenda, to which they added an equity statement, in italics:

• The Middle School Working Group recognizes the diversity of students and families and strives to create strategies that build on their strengths and remove barriers to success.
• Increase positive connections among middle school students, families, schools, and the community through purposeful communication and engagement.
• Create opportunities that inspire all students and support their successful transition to high school. 

To read the Middle School Working Group Report click here.

In April 2024, Elevate, The STEM Foundation, and Dayton School District launched the STEM Like ME!® program, generating strong interest in after-school STEM opportunities. By September, a STEAM Club pilot program was introduced, focusing on career exploration and activities in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Students connected with upperclassmen and community professionals, learning the importance of continuing STEM education to achieve their career goals. They also gained hands-on experience through center-based learning to broaden interests and promote exploration.  

Stay tuned for what Elevate has planned for 2025 and beyond!