For Immediate Release
October 2, 2023
Pike to Receive Distinguished Service Award for Middle Level Education
Columbus, OH – AMLE is pleased to announce that Charlene H. Pike, retired 8th grade social studies teacher, is the recipient of the AMLE Distinguished Service Award. The award was established to recognize outstanding service by an organization or an individual who makes a significant contribution to advancing the work of AMLE in reaching middle grades educators, schools, and young adolescents. It is only the thirteenth time in AMLE’s 50-year history that the award has been bestowed.
Throughout her career, and even into retirement, Pike has been a passionate advocate for middle level education. She spent 30 years as an 8th grade social studies teacher at L’Anse Creuse Middle School South in Harrison Township, MI where she impacted the lives of thousands of students and educators. As just one example of her contributions, she developed a nationally recognized model for co-teaching between regular and special education teachers. Char has also dedicated the past 50 years to advancing middle grades initiatives through her involvement in AMLE and the Michigan Association of Middle School Educators (MAMSE). She has served in a myriad of leadership roles, including AMLE Trustee from 1985 – 1995, member of the Program Committee from 1993 – 2000, and a member of the AMLE Foundation Fund Committee from 1997 to present. She was elected to serve as president of the Association in 1994.
“AMLE is thrilled to recognize Charlene Pike as an AMLE Distinguished Award recipient. She has the true heart of a servant, is dedicated to the success of young adolescents, and is so deserving of this honor,” said Stephanie Simpson, CEO of AMLE, “In particular, through her financial generosity and her years of volunteerism Char has helped establish AMLE’s Foundation Fund as a critical support for the advancement of the field.”
“It is an honor to receive recognition for over 50 years of service to middle level education,” said Pike on her receipt of the award, “I am fortunate to have been hired by a school district whose leaders embraced best practices, were pioneers in middle level education and encouraged and empowered classroom teachers to develop successful middle schools that meet developmental and cultural needs of students of ages 10 to 14. My students, mentors, colleagues and friends all influenced and supported my journey of service. Working with 8th graders, attending and presenting professional development opportunities, serving state and national professional organizations as an officer and volunteer and building lifelong friendships enriched my life. I will cherish the memories and continue to support middle level going forward. It is truly heartwarming to be held in high regard by middle level professionals.”
Pike will be honored in November, 2023 at the 50th Annual Conference for Middle Level Education in National Harbor, MD.
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About the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE)
The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) helps middle grades educators reach every student, grow professionally, and create great schools. A membership association of more than 35,000 members, AMLE provides professional learning and networking opportunities to those who work with students ages 10-15. www.amle.org & www.amle.org/annual
Media Contact
Stephanie Simpson | AMLE | 800-528-6672 | ssimpson@amle.org