5 Reasons John Griffin Middle School Is A National 'School To Watch' (2025-2026 Updates)

John Griffin Middle School (JGMS), located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is currently operating with significant momentum, having recently secured a prestigious national re-designation and celebrating a major leadership award. As of December 17, 2025, the school, known as the "Home of the Pirates," continues to set a high bar for excellence in the Cumberland County Schools (CCS) district, focusing on strong academic growth and developmental responsiveness for its middle-grade scholars.

The school’s commitment to providing an above-average public education for its 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students is evidenced by its consistent recognition on a national level. From its strong performance metrics on state End-of-Grade (EOG) tests to its comprehensive student support programs, John R. Griffin Middle School is a model for middle-grade education, preparing its students to be productive citizens and lifelong learners in an ever-changing world.

John Griffin Middle School: Key Profile and Leadership

John R. Griffin Middle School, often referred to simply as John Griffin Middle, is a vital part of the educational landscape in Fayetteville and the greater Cumberland County area. Its profile is defined by strong leadership and a dedicated focus on student success.

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• Full Name: John R. Griffin Middle School
• Location: 5551 Fisher Road, Fayetteville, NC 28304
• School District: Cumberland County Schools (CCS)
• Grades Served: 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade
• Enrollment: Approximately 1,026 to 1,057 students
• Mascot: The Pirate (School Motto: "Pirate Pride")
• Student-Teacher Ratio: 17:1
• Current Principal (2025): Dr. Latreicia Allen

Dr. Latreicia Allen: The 2026 Sandhills Regional Principal of the Year

A major highlight for the school is the recognition of its leadership. Dr. Latreicia Allen, the current principal, was recently named the 2026 Sandhills Regional Principal of the Year. This prestigious award, which followed her selection as the Cumberland County Schools 2026 Principal of the Year, underscores her commitment to academic excellence and a leadership philosophy centered on the success of every child. Her administration is credited with fostering an environment that has led to significant recent achievements for the school.

Academic Excellence and Student Growth Metrics

John Griffin Middle School maintains a reputation for strong academic performance, particularly in student growth, which is a key metric for North Carolina public schools. The school serves a diverse student body, including a significant population from low-socioeconomic backgrounds, making its achievements even more notable.

Strong Test Scores and Growth Percentiles

The school's performance on the North Carolina End-of-Grade (EOG) Tests provides a clear picture of its academic standing:

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• Reading Proficiency: State test scores indicate that 61% of students are at least proficient in reading.
• Math Proficiency: State test scores indicate that 48% of students are at least proficient in math.
• Student Growth Score: John Griffin Middle School achieved a Student Growth Score of 85.1, placing it in the 72nd percentile of all North Carolina schools. This high growth score demonstrates the school's effectiveness in helping students make more than a year's worth of academic progress in a single school year.
• Average Standard Score: The calculated Average Standard Score in 2025 was 73.49.

This strong emphasis on growth and proficiency is part of the school's tradition of excellence, which aims to prepare students for the rigorous demands of high school and beyond.

Unique Programs and National Recognition

Beyond core academics, John Griffin Middle School has earned distinction through its commitment to a holistic middle-grade education, which includes a wide variety of extracurricular and support programs.

1. Re-Designation as a National 'School to Watch'

One of the most significant recent achievements is the school's re-designation as a national 'School to Watch'. This program, run by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, recognizes high-performing middle schools that demonstrate:

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• Academic excellence.
• Developmental responsiveness to the unique needs of young adolescents.
• Social equity.
• Organizational structures and processes that support the entire school.

This re-designation reaffirms John Griffin Middle School's position as a leader in effective middle-level education.

2. USDA Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)

In a major update for the current school year, John Griffin Middle School was enrolled in the USDA Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This provision is a significant benefit for all families, as it allows all enrolled students to receive free meals, regardless of their household income. This initiative ensures that every student has access to the nutritional support needed for a successful day of learning.

3. Diverse Extracurricular and Enrichment Opportunities

To foster well-rounded students, the school offers a robust selection of clubs and activities, catering to a wide range of interests. These programs help build essential social and leadership skills, reinforcing the school’s "Pirate Pride" spirit.

Key clubs and entities include:

• Art Club
• Battle of the Books
• Chess Club
• Fiddle Group
• Forensics
• The Green Team
• Ladies Academy
• Math Counts
• National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)
• Pep Club

These opportunities, combined with the school’s athletic programs (with eligibility determined by prior semester performance), provide a comprehensive middle school experience.

Conclusion: A Model for Middle-Grade Success

John Griffin Middle School in Fayetteville, NC, stands out as a high-achieving institution within the Cumberland County Schools district. Its recent accomplishments—including the national 'School to Watch' re-designation, the naming of Dr. Latreicia Allen as the 2026 Sandhills Regional Principal of the Year, and the implementation of the free meal CEP—demonstrate a powerful commitment to both academic rigor and student well-being. The school’s strong Student Growth Score and diverse extracurricular offerings ensure that every "Pirate" scholar is well-prepared for their future educational journey.