Disrupt and Lead: A Summer Institute for Middle Level Leaders
New England League of Middle Schools are leaders in promoting middle level best practices by providing collaborative learning experiences that support students’ intellectual, academic, social, and emotional growth and success.
In today’s school climate, where students and staff are navigating increased social pressures, mental health challenges, and a rapidly changing world, simply maintaining old systems is not enough. Schools must evolve to remain relevant and responsive, and leaders play a critical role in driving that evolution from within.
Disruption is not about chaos or rebellion; it is thoughtful, student-centered change driven by curiosity, courage, and a commitment to improvement. To “disrupt” as a middle school leader means choosing not to accept the status quo when it no longer serves students or the school community. It is the intentional act of challenging routines, mindsets, and systems that limit belonging, engagement, or growth, and replacing them with practices that better reflect what students and staff need to thrive.
Disruptive middle school leaders:
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Ask hard questions and listen deeply to student and staff voice
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Take strategic risks to build a more inclusive, positive, and empowering school culture
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Inspire creativity in a world of fidelity
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Create environments where all students and staff feel seen, valued, and motivated
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Maintain their mental health by establishing strong habits of self-care
Featured Presenter Bios
JACK BERCKEMEYER
A nationally recognized presenter, author, and humorist, Jack Berckemeyer began his career as a middle school teacher in Denver, Colorado. After only two years, he was recognized as the outstanding educator at his school and in his district. Then in 2003,
Jack received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the Falcon School District. Jack has also served as a judge for the Disney American Teacher Awards and has served on the selection committee for the USA TODAY All-Teacher Team. Jack has a master’s degree in Middle Level Education as well as an administrator’s degree.
For 13 years, Jack served as the Assistant Executive Director for the National Middle School Association. He is the owner of Berckemeyer Consulting Group, through which he has presented in hundreds of school districts and conference settings both nationally and internationally. Jack is known not only for his keynotes and workshops but is also highly regarded as one of the best long-term professional developers in the country. Jack’s presentations and instruction are best-practice focused and research-based. He is in high demand and enjoys working with educators and schools. Jack was presented the 2012 James P. Garvin Distinguished Service Award from the New England League of Middle Schools.
Jack's recent release (summer of 2025) of Elements of Effective Teaming is a comprehensive, online, subscription-based curriculum and is a companion piece to Successful Middle School Teaming (released in 2022). He is also the author of Managing the Madness: A Practical Guide to Middle Grades Classrooms and has written numerous educational articles for AMLE.org. In addition, he co-authored Deliberate Optimism: STILL Reclaiming the Joy in Education, with Dr. Debbie Silver (released in 2023).
Jack lives in Denver, Colorado, and has no pets, plants, or people.
JENNIFER STANCHFIELD
Jen Stanchfield, M.S., of Experiential Tools, inspires educators worldwide with her engaging, informative, and empowering workshops and books. Emphasizing relationships and connection, Jen blends neuroscience with experiential learning, and community building to foster engagement, reflection, and belonging. With three decades in the field, her work spans K12 education, clinical mental health, universities and colleges, and community organizations, offering practical tools that make learning meaningful and inclusive.
She is the author of Tips and Tools for The Art of Experiential Group Facilitation and Inspired Educator, Inspired Learner: Experiential, Brain-Based Activities and Strategies to Engage, Build Community, and Create Lasting Lessons. In addition, she is the creator and regular contributor to the Inspired Educator Blog at experientialtools.com. Her participant-centered approach supports social-emotional learning and builds resilient, reflective communities.
In 2026, Jen was named the recipient of James P. Garvin Distinguished Service Award by the New England League of Middle Schools.