NAESP Center for Middle-Level Leadership

Center Focus

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The Center for Middle-Level Leadership focuses on providing the exceptional skills and support that middle-level administrators need to lead outstanding schools with high levels of student achievement.

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The Center works to connect aspiring and experienced middle-level leaders with pertinent information and resources that promote their work with young adolescents transitioning from elementary to high school.

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Leaders engaged in the work of the Center for Middle-level Leadership are typically interested in creating learning processes and environments designed to meet the unique needs of young adolescents.

Get Involved

Meeting in the Middle 

NAESP members leading middle schools can connect with peers, discuss challenges, and share resources through the “Meeting in the Middle” series of virtual connections. Held via Zoom, these monthly sessions are designed to help you expand your professional learning network through open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Each meeting provides a supportive, peer-driven space to explore topics unique to middle-level leadership. Please note that to participate, you must have a current NAESP membership.

2025-2026 Meeting Schedule
Join the Community of Practice

Learn, grow, and connect with peers when you join the Center for Middle-Level Leadership Community of Practice.

Sign Up

Meet the Fellows

Katy Kennedy

Katy Kennedy

Principal
Washington Middle School
Glendive, Montana
Christopher Turnbull
View Profile

Christopher Turnbull

Principal
Timberlane Middle School
New Jersey
Now Open: Call for proposals for the 2026 National School Leaders Conference! Submit by Dec. 31.Learn More