Emerson Middle School has once again been recognized as an Illinois Horizon School to Watch (IHSTW) by the Association of Illinois Middle-Grade Schools (AIMS). This marks Emerson's sixth redesignation, having previously earned this prestigious honor in 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, & 2021. The award is given on a three-year cycle.
"Being a Horizon School to Watch is great because it showcases the remarkable hard work of our teachers, staff, students, and families," said Emerson Principal Tessa Shulman. "This honor is a direct result of our strong culture and commitment to student success. Emerson is such an incredible place, and I'm so proud of our school community."
What does it mean to become an Illinois Horizon School to Watch? Emerson has demonstrated academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational structures and processes that promote excellence.
As a designated School to Watch, Emerson will be honored at the National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C., from June 26 to 28. Educators from across the country will celebrate their shared commitment to outstanding middle school education at this conference.
"Congratulations to everyone at Emerson on this awesome achievement," said Superintendent Dr. Ben Collins. "Earning this redesignation takes years of dedication, innovation, and deep commitment to student learning and growth. It’s awesome to see Emerson and D64 get recognized!"
The Schools to Watch program is part of a national initiative led by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform. More than 600 schools are part of this network.