Stiles Middle School is Leander ISD’s newest middle school. It opened in August of 2012 and is named after former LISD teacher, Florence Wallace Stiles. Since its opening, the student population has nearly doubled. In its first five years, the campus grew from 670 students to its current enrollment of 1,170 sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students.
With bold school colors of green and gold, Stiles MS is home to the Spartans, and the school is known for its Spartan Spirit. As part of the Spartan Spirit, Stiles MS staff members strive to build a culture of support for all learners.
‘We have a culture of collaboration here at Stiles MS,’ Principal Susan Cole said. ‘We care about kids and make decisions based on what is best for them.’
The Spartan Spirit is felt at every level of the school. Micah Brown, a sixth-grade social studies teacher at Stiles MS, said that he is driven every day to be a positive role model for students.
‘Here at Stiles MS, teachers are empowered to be there for our students. They give us the resources and support we need,’ Brown said. ‘I want to be a support for students who may not fit in.’
The Spartan Spirit has created a close community within the student body, too. Students take great pride in their school and encourage their peers. Students cheer for their classmates involved in the nationally recognized Spartan Band, as well as other Stiles MS school programs.
With such a rich and unique school culture, the campus’ leadership is continually seeking out ways to further engage students and staff members in activities that promote support and encouragement.
‘Our staff members work hard to keep our special culture strong, even with all of our growth,’ Cole said.
The school recently received its fourth No Place for Hate banner from the Anti-Defamation League, a symbol of the school’s commitment to eliminate prejudice and promote a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.
Building off of Spartan Spirit, this year, Stiles MS is promoting the hashtag #5fsmsStrong on social media and throughout the school.
Cole and her teachers and staff are challenging students to make this 2016-17 school year their best one yet.