Allen Middle School is unique among its sister middle schools in the West Shore School District in that it is a one-story structure located on a large site that permits year round use by students, the community, and the flock of ducks that annually makes the school grounds its home nesting area. The large and inviting landscape encourages community use, and it is not uncommon to find the building bustling with activity from sun up to sun down.
The open construction, boasting large windows and three internal open air courtyards, allows for the easy movement within the building for the roughly 560 students and 45 professional staff and permits us to create a sense of connection with each other and the outdoors. A visitor to the building should not be surprised to find students and teachers actively using these spaces for educational opportunities in lieu of the typical classroom spaces.
Allen is also unique in that it serves a student population that comes from areas in both Cumberland and York counties. This means that upon completion of eighth grade, approximately half the students go to Cedar Cliff High School and the other half go to Red Land High School.
Academically, the students excel and work with a staff of dedicated individuals who are committed to meeting the particular and unique needs of the early adolescent child. With an average daily attendance rate that is above 95 percent, Allen is proud of its efforts to prepare students for the rigors of high school and beyond. Embracing the motto that “We are building responsible, successful citizens every day,” Allen staff members work with students to help them make the good decisions that will best benefit them in the long run and make it possible for them to make these good decisions independently.
Allen students are an active group led by a Student Council that encourages service and involvement. Each year, the students and staff of Allen Middle School organize and participate in a "Fun Run" which raises money for local charities. This is the type of activity that shows the school pride and sense of community that Allen possesses.
Among the other activities and organizations at Allen are the National Junior Honor Society, Academic Bowl teams, Mathcounts, Science Olympiad, Geography Bee, interscholastic teams for 7th and 8th graders, band, orchestra, chorus, and Scholastic writing and art.
Knowing that it is strong communication between home and school that has the most impact on student success, we encourage parental involvement in a variety of ways. Parents are encouraged to attend our Principal’s Coffee meetings, take part in our Parent Advisory Council, or act as chaperones for dances, trips, and other activities. Conferences are encouraged at any time, as are volunteer activities in the classroom.
Parents and community members are encouraged to visit our webpage regularly and to follow us on Twitter @AllenMustings