Marsteller Middle School Prepares for School Year; Still Faces Overcrowding

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While students have been sleeping in and lounging at the pool, the administration at Marsteller Middle School has been actively preparing for the upcoming school year.

Even as early as June, the administrators were at the National School to Watch conference in Washington, D.C., speaking about successful endeavors with other middle school educators from around the country.

The school has also been recognized as a "School to Watch" for the third time on the basis of academic excellence, developmental responsiveness and social equity.

"This philosophy guides all we do at Marsteller and allows us to provide our students with the best possible middle school experience," said Principal Roberta Knetter.

Despite this accolade, Marsteller will keep its enrollment of 1,600 students this fall. The opening of Ronald Reagan Middle School in Haymarket will not have a significant effect on Marsteller's student population.

"The opening of Reagan Middle School did not impact the numbers at Marsteller," said Knetter. "However the new middle school boundaries shifted a small number of students to other middle school locations."

With a consistent student population, the school must keep its facilities consistent as well, meaning that the two modular buildings (trailers containing five classrooms) that have been at the school for about six years will still be on campus.

"We have had the two modular buildings in place since the 2006-2007 school year and will continue to utilize these structures." said Knetter.

Despite the manageable overcrowding, Marsteller will still feature its unique math/science specialty program.

"Our math/science specialty program continues to offer students an opportunity to study, collaborate and learn with peers who possess a keen interest in math and science," said Knetter.

With this in mind, Knetter is optimistic about her school's ability to provide for its students.

"I look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence at Marsteller as we ensure a quality educational experience for our students," said Knetter.

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