News
Casey Caldwell Santos ’08 Honored with AMLE Adult Advocate Award for Outstanding Support of Middle School Students
Girls Preparatory School is proud to announce that Casey Caldwell Santos ’08, Middle School Counseling Specialist, has been named a recipient of the AMLE Adult Advocate Award, a national recognition celebrating educators who go above and beyond to support the social, emotional, and academic well-being of young adolescents.
Presented by the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) during Middle Level Education Month in March, the award recognizes educators, administrators, counselors, and staff who serve as trusted advocates for middle school students. Grounded in research that shows how impactful adult mentorship can be during the middle school years, AMLE’s award highlights individuals who exemplify the compassion, connection, and care that help students thrive.
Among this year’s honorees, Casey stood out for her remarkable ability to form deep, personal connections with each GPS middle school student and her unwavering commitment to their growth.
“Casey is truly the heart and soul of the Middle School’s support system,” her nominator shared. “She knows each one of our girls and effortlessly keeps track of who their friends are, which activities they are involved in, and how their classes are going. With unmatched grace and wisdom, she navigates the ever-changing landscape of our girls’ emotions, seamlessly guiding them through the normal complexities of friendships, lunchtime dramas, and those awkward first stirrings of young love. She also helps them handle tougher issues ... Casey is the epitome of a trusted confidante.”
Casey's work goes beyond day-to-day counseling. She fosters a culture of inclusion, builds bridges between students and adults, and empowers girls to better understand themselves and others. Her advocacy, AMLE noted, reflects the essence of its mission: ensuring every student has an adult who believes in them, supports them, and lights the path ahead.
A proud GPS alumna, Casey returned to her alma mater to serve the next generation of GPS girls with the same warmth, wisdom, and empathy she experienced as a student. Her recognition as an AMLE Adult Advocate is a testament not only to her dedication but also to the supportive, student-centered culture she helps nurture every day.
