Awards and Grants

Purpose: VMSA supports innovative classroom projects that benefit young adolescents.

Eligibility: Applicant must be a current VMSA member.

How the grant works:

• Funds are awarded directly to the school for the proposed project.
• Recipients present their project at the VMSA 2028 Conference — registration is covered.

Deadline: February 18, 2027.

Purpose: Honor middle level educators who serve in roles other than classroom teacher and show outstanding devotion to young adolescents and middle level best practices.

Eligibility: Must be a current VMSA member.

Criteria:

• Enthusiastic about middle level students
• An educational leader and role model
• Supports a developmentally responsive school climate
• Seeks equity and access for all learners
• Models effective practices — data use, academic excellence, a safe and healthy environment, authentic interdisciplinary learning, and relationships with students and families

What to submit (Google Form):

• Nominator information
• Nominee's teaching experience and school
• Two letters of support — one from a colleague, one from a student (≤500 words each)
• Nominee narrative (≤500 words)

Deadline: February 18, 2027.

Purpose: Honor a middle level educator with outstanding devotion to young adolescents and middle level best practices.

Eligibility: Must be a current VMSA member.

Criteria:

• Enthusiastic about middle level students
• An educational leader and role model
• Supports a developmentally responsive school climate
• Seeks equity and access for all learners
• Models effective practices — data use, academic excellence, a safe and healthy environment, authentic interdisciplinary learning, and relationships with students and families

What to submit (Google Form):

• Two letters of support — one from a colleague, one from a student (≤500 words each)
• Nominee narrative (≤500 words)

Deadline: Wednesday, February 18, 2027.