A program of the National Forum,
run by the California League of Middle Schools
California's 32nd Congressional District
Schools to Watch (STW) is active in 22 states nationwide, creating a vibrant community of middle schools committed to achieving and sustaining success. STW recognizes schools that demonstrate a trajectory toward excellence while fostering a culture of innovation, growth, and continuous improvement.
2026 Highlights
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HighTech Los Angeles Middle School
★ 2025 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Maral Rostami, Principal
818-583-6229
5041 Sunnyslope Ave, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Independent Charter School
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
HighTech Los Angeles Middle School combines collaborative professional learning communities, social-emotional learning, and student leadership to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ PLCs use shared assessments and student data to plan targeted instruction and intervention.
✓ A schoolwide MTSS framework coordinates academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support.
✓ Student leadership and voice shape school activities, decision-making, and community culture.
★ With only three new teachers in 2024—one of whom was added due to the school’s expansion—the team’s collective institutional memory and dedication are the backbone of its success.
Oliver Wendell Holmes International Middle School
↻ 2025 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Susie D'Parker, Principal
818-678-4100
9351 Paso Robles Ave., Northridge, CA 91325
Los Angeles Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Oliver Wendell Holmes International Middle School combines targeted academic intervention, social-emotional learning, and clubs and enrichment to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ Targeted mathematics support uses tutoring, small groups, and progress monitoring to build proficiency.
✓ Counseling and wellness services provide coordinated social-emotional and behavioral support.
✓ Technology-rich learning expands access, collaboration, creativity, and digital skills.
★ The school's outstanding progress was highlighted in an LAUSD research study, "Schools Demonstrating High Success," where staff were one of only two middle schools recognized.
Louis D. Armstrong Middle School
↻ 2023 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Felicia Drew, Principal
818-528-1600
5041 Sunnyslope Avenue, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Los Angeles Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Louis D. Armstrong Middle School, formerly Robert A. Millikan Middle School, combines specialized academies, extensive arts programming, and personalized intervention to engage diverse learners. Rigorous coursework connects with projects, field trips, performance, media, and technology. Restorative justice, peer mediation, inclusive special education, community arts partnerships, and student service opportunities support creativity, belonging, citizenship, and preparation for future pathways.
✓ Specialized academies connect rigorous coursework with projects, field trips, and careers.
✓ Thirteen full-time arts educators support extensive visual and performing arts programs.
✓ Restorative justice and peer mediation provide nonviolent conflict resolution.
★ MilliCON connects artists, families, and community members with career pathways in the arts.