The National Forum is excited to announce the 2026 National Schools to Watch, recognizing 219 outstanding middle-grades schools from across the country for their commitment to academic excellence, social equity, and the success of every student.

This year includes 85 newly designated schools, 134 redesignated schools, and one new state (Missouri) joining the program. All serve as models of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement in middle-level education. You can visit the website to see the list of the 2026 National Schools to Watch for each state.

Please join us in celebrating these exceptional schools and their dedication to supporting young adolescents at the National Schools to Watch Conference, June 25-27, in Washington D.C.

https://www.middlegradesforum.org/conference2026

Educators, Horace Mann is excited to share something new, created just for you!

The Horace Mann Club™ is a free program that offers access to discounts, wellness resources and practical tools designed to support life both in and out of the classroom. There’s no cost to join and new offerings will continue to be added over time.

Visit https://club.horacemann.com today!

PAMLE was proudly represented at the ELMLE Annual Conference in Prague, January 22-24 by Jen Cort, Sam Abate and Jen Williams! ELMLE is the European League for Middle Level Education, an international affiliate of the Association for Middle Level Education, and the visible presence of middle level education in the international schools of Europe and beyond #elmleprague

You spend your days preparing for what’s next — for your students and your families. Life insurance is one way to help protect the future you’re building in and out of the classroom. Learn how coverage can help provide long-term financial protection for those who rely on you. Visit https://www.horacemann.com to learn more and get a free quote #InsureYourLove #HoraceMannInsurance

Our partner, Horace Mann, is a proud sponsor of Crayola Creativity Week, January 26 to February 1. It's a free, fun-filled celebration that brings imagination and learning to life with daily activities, videos and creative classroom resources. Plus, when you sign up for Creativity Week, you can enter for a chance to win a four-day getaway to southern California to refresh and recharge your creativity and $500 in Crayola art supplies to inspire your students all year long! Sign up today! https://crayola-creativity-retreat.squarespace.com/

Our long-time corporate sponsor Horace Mann’s gratitude for educators runs deep, and during this season of giving, they are showing their appreciation by giving educators the chance to win big. Enter to win today! Winners will be announced on December 2!

Visit https://www.horacemann.com/programs/giveaways

Our long-time corporate partner Horace Mann believes those who dedicate their lives to education deserve more — from their insurance and from the companies they trust. 

That’s why our auto insurance is designed specifically with educators in mind. 

As a trusted partner in education for 80 years, Horace Mann offers: 

• Special educator discounts 
• $0 deductible for vandalism or collisions on or near school property, or at school-sponsored events 
• Up to $1,000 for stolen or damaged work-related items in your car 
• Liability coverage when you’re transporting students 
• Up to $35 in transportation reimbursement if you’re away from school and feel unsafe to drive 
• These are just a few of the ways Horace Mann goes beyond standard coverage, because we know your work doesn’t stop when the bell rings. 

Get a quick quote today and see how much you could save. 

Thank you for all you do to shape the future. We’re proud to support you on and off the road 

Horace Mann Insurance Company and its affiliates underwrite Horace Mann auto insurance. The coverages listed are only a general description of coverage and do not constitute a statement of contract. Additional terms and conditions, as described in the policy, must be met for the coverage to be provided. Not all discounts and benefits available in all states. 

 Horace Mann Service Corporation and certain of its affiliates (Horace Mann) enter into agreements with educational associations where Horace Mann pays the association to provide services aimed at familiarizing association members with the Horace Mann brand, products or services. For more information, email your inquiry to association.relations@horacemann.com. 

Join PAMLE partner American College of Education for this webinar to find out how you can continue your education through ACE’s 100% online advanced degrees. Click here for more information.

Let the the Highmark CHIP team help you get health care coverage for all kids under 19, regardless of household income. Click here for more information.