President's Message

Tiffany Shaw

Welcome to the Ohio Middle Level Association!

It is an honor and privilege to serve as President of the Ohio Middle Level Association. For almost twenty years, I have had the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated educators and leaders who share a passion for middle-level education. Throughout that journey, one thing has remained constant: Middle school matters, and the educators who serve young adolescents make a lasting difference.

Middle-level education is about so much more than preparing students for high school. It is about recognizing the unique developmental needs of young adolescents, creating environments where every student feels valued and supported, and providing opportunities for students to discover their strengths, explore their interests, and realize their potential. The work we do during these formative years truly matters.

At OMLA, we believe in three important commitments that guide our work: EDUCATE. ADVOCATE. CELEBRATE.

• EDUCATE. We provide meaningful professional learning, resources, and opportunities for collaboration that empower educators to grow, lead, and create exceptional learning experiences for young adolescents.
• ADVOCATE. We champion the unique needs of middle-level learners and ensure that the voices of middle-level educators are heard in the conversations and decisions that shape education across Ohio.
• CELEBRATE. We recognize the incredible work happening in middle-level schools, honor the educators who make a difference every day, and celebrate the successes, innovations, and impact of our profession.

As we look ahead, I am excited about the opportunities before us. My vision for OMLA is one of continued growth, meaningful partnerships, stronger connections among educators, and a renewed commitment to advocating for what is best for young adolescents. We must continue to learn from one another, challenge the status quo when necessary, celebrate the work happening in our schools, and ensure that the unique needs of middle-level learners remain at the forefront of educational conversations and decisions.

Whether you are a longtime OMLA member, a new educator discovering the power of middle-level education, an administrator, or a community partner, I invite you to become involved. Share your ideas, build connections, ask questions, and help us move our profession forward. OMLA is strongest when we work together.

Thank you for the important work you do each day for Ohio's young adolescents. I look forward to serving alongside you as we continue to strengthen middle-level education across our state.

Together, let's EDUCATE. ADVOCATE. CELEBRATE.

With gratitude,



Tiffany Shaw
President, Ohio Middle Level Association