GPS Named 2024 School of Distinction by Association for Middle Level Education

The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) recently recognized 17 middle schools nationwide as AMLE Schools of Distinction for 2024, including Girls Preparatory School. 

GPS completed a rigorous review process that measured implementation of middle school best practice and continuous improvement plans. After advancing from the initial application, the school community participated in a series of stakeholder interviews that included staff, students, and families. 

“It is a privilege to recognize Girls Preparatory School as an AMLE School of Distinction. They are truly worthy of this prestigious honor, and I’m excited for AMLE to be able to share their story,” says Stephanie Simpson, CEO of AMLE. Following the review process, GPS was recognized as the first all-girls school to receive this designation as well as being the only school in Tennessee. 

“We are thrilled to be named by the AMLE as a Middle School of Distinction, and to be the first all-girls school to be nationally recognized is a huge honor,” says Kathryn Outlaw, Head of Middle School and Director of Student Support Services. “Throughout the evaluation process, we were able to highlight our unique and outstanding programs that cultivate relationships, community, and the well-being of middle school girls. While I knew from the beginning of the process that we have an outstanding school and environment for middle school girls, being able to celebrate this success with our faculty who care so deeply for their students every day is incredibly special.”

Outlaw and colleague Dr. Ralph Covino, Humanities Coordinator and history teacher, will present on behalf of GPS at AMLE24: The 51st Annual Conference for Middle Level Education this November in Nashville, Tennessee, where GPS will be recognized and presented with a plaque and banner.

"Those who work at GPS know that there is something magical about the place and how we have built an environment where each girl can cultivate her talents and achieve excellence,” Covino says. “It is heartening to know that external assessors can see it as well. I am greatly looking forward to presenting our story and the GPS way to the rest of the Association in Nashville at the conference.”

AMLE’s Schools of Distinction program recognizes exemplary schools while supporting them through a process of strategic vision setting to help foster ongoing growth and success. The program’s evaluation criteria are anchored in AMLE’s landmark position paper on best practice in the middle grades, The Successful Middle School: This We Believe, now in its fifth edition and 42nd year of publication.

“The AMLE Schools of Distinction Committee extends its heartfelt congratulations to Girls Preparatory School. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their achievement at our annual conference in November and learning about their exemplary middle school practices,” says Katie Johnson, Chair of the AMLE Schools of Distinction Committee. “I deeply appreciate the support and collaboration of all school stakeholders, committee members, and AMLE staff in this year’s selection process.” 

Schools are selected as AMLE Schools of Distinction on an annual basis after a rigorous review process. Recognition is awarded on a four-year cycle. Schools must reapply after each cycle to maintain their Schools of Distinction Status and are expected to maintain continuous improvement work throughout their recognition.