"I couldn't have made it through my first two years without the support of other principals—especially my colleagues in the networks. I could never tell anyone in my own district that I didn't have all the answers. But in a network meeting, I could ask the experts and know that I was getting the best possible information and advice." CMGPN Principal, 2002.
"There are very few opportunities for site administrators that are comparable in quality to the professional access and content pedagogy that principals are exposed to through the networks." CMGPN Principal, 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the California Middle Grades Partnership Network (CMGPN)? (See full brochure | PDF (1MB; 2pp.)
- Who can join CMGPN?
- What are the benefits of CMGPN participation?
- I’m interested in joining a CMGPN in my geographic area. How do I find out if one exists?
- If there isn’t a CMGPN near my school, could I start one?
- How can I get more information?
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What is the California Middle Grades Partnership Network?
Started in 1988 with 100 middle schools that had an “uncommon commitment” to middle school reform, the California Middle Grades Partnership Network (CMGPN) is a collaborative, principal-to-principal and school-to-school network sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE). Currently, 27 networks (320 schools) actively participate in CMGPN.
Each local network meets several times during the year to support, visit, mentor, and assist one another with issues and challenges specific to middle grades education and to improve student achievement.
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Who can join CMGPN?
Network participation is open to all middle schools and to elementary schools serving grades six to eight population. Urban, suburban, rural, small, large, and low-performing to high-performing schools are welcomed and encouraged to collaboratively participate in this cost-effective, risk-free program.
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What are the benefits of CMGPN participation?
Benefits of participation in CMGPN include being kept up-to-date on CDE activities and initiatives, state and federal mandates and pending legislation, current middle level research, special state or federal projects, grants or special funding opportunities. In addition, networks provide input on state middle school policy development and share staff development plans and activities, successful networking management strategies, middle school issues, challenges and solutions. Local and state networks pool resources to provide relevant middle-level professional development.
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I’m interested in joining a CMGPN in my geographic area. How do I find out if one exists?
To find out if there is an established Network in your geographic area, click on the CMGPN coordinators' chart with contact information listed for each county. Coordinators are listed by the region of their school location; however, networks may cross over to other regions.
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If there isn’t a CMGPN near my school, could I start one?
Yes. Regional networks (comprised of 8-13 middle schools) identify a fiscal agent from among their partner schools, agencies or institutions of higher education, to handle the receipt and disbursement of funds that will support network activities. One representative from each regional network is assigned to serve as coordinator and primary communication link between the regional network and CDE. Coordinators attend quarterly state meetings and bring vital, cutting edge information back to their networks.
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How can I get more information?
For more information about CMGPN, call the Middle and High School Improvement Office 916-322-1892 or click on the CMGPN brochure (PDF; 1MB; 2pp.) You may also click on the CMGPN coordinators’ chart to speak to someone in your geographic region.
