Mineola Middle School is set to transform its grading system, emphasizing transparency and student engagement, following a recent government meeting. The new approach, which aligns grades directly with student work, aims to eliminate confusion around grading and enhance accountability among students. This initiative was met with enthusiasm from parents during the recent "Meet the Teacher" night, indicating strong community support.

The school is also fostering innovation through hands-on learning experiences. Last year, students participated in a fifth-grade hackathon and engaged in robotics competitions, showcasing their skills in the First Lego League. Additionally, seventh graders explored artificial intelligence, even debating against an AI, which sparked excitement and curiosity among the students.

Central to the school's educational philosophy is the development of a strong learner identity. This year, Mineola Middle School is focusing on social problem-solving as part of its social-emotional learning (SEL) initiatives. The school has implemented community circles and agency hours to help students build self-awareness and navigate social situations effectively. Feedback from surveys indicates that students feel supported by their teachers and have a strong sense of safety within the school environment.

As Mineola Middle School continues to innovate and adapt its educational practices, the emphasis on student work and community engagement is expected to yield positive outcomes for learners. The school community looks forward to further developments and the impact these changes will have on student success.