CAS is proud to announce that New Fairfield Middle School has been selected as the 2014-2015 Middle School of the Year. Chosen from among 150 eligible Connecticut middle schools, New Fairfield distinguished itself as a consummate middle school, employing exemplary practices as defined by the National Middle School Association and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. It was selected, in part, because of its extensive use of twenty-first century skills in all aspects of school life and its commitment to making all students, teachers, leaders, and support staff into “learners.” It was also cited for:
• leadership that empowers all stakeholders as part of the decision–making process;
• inclusion of special-needs students with their peers in all classes;
• support for innovation and academic risk-taking; and,
• emphasis on research and presentation skills by all learners.

New Fairfield Middle School is an extraordinary middle school in every respect. It was formally honored at an all-school celebration in September.

By Earle G. Bidwell, CAS Assistant Executive Director