Coastal Middle recognized as School of Distinction for second time

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Coastal Middle School has once again earned national recognition for its approach to educating and supporting middle school students.

The Association for Middle Level Education named Coastal Middle a 2026 School of Distinction. The school first received the designation in 2022.

The program recognizes schools that demonstrate best practices in middle-level education and work toward continuous improvement.

Coastal earned the honor following an extensive review that included a school-wide assessment, improvement planning and interviews with staff members, students and families.

Evaluators highlighted the school’s inclusive, supportive and student-centered culture. Curriculum, instruction and assessment were also identified as areas of strength, with students describing their learning experiences as engaging and accessible.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and commitment of our entire Seahawk family to creating a school where every student is known, valued, challenged, and supported,” Coastal Middle School Principal Paul Sidney said.

Chris Woodside, CEO of AMLE, said Coastal’s commitment to building a thriving middle school community sets an example for educators elsewhere.

Coastal Middle will join a network of recognized schools featured in AMLE’s online database. School representatives will also present their achievements during AMLE26, the organization’s annual conference in Nashville.

For more information about the Schools of Distinction program, visit here.