Newport Mill Middle School

Can a middle school whisper tales of revolution? Newport Mill Middle School can. Here, at 11311 Newport Mill Road in Kensington, Maryland, the echoes of history intertwine with the laughter of students. Newport Mill Middle School isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a living testament to the past. Established in 1958, this school carries a name steeped in local lore, borrowed from a gristmill built in 1756. This very mill, the original Newport Mill, ground flour for American soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Imagine the hustle and bustle of those times, the vital role this seemingly simple mill played. Now, fast forward to the present, and picture students walking these halls, learning, growing, and contributing to a new chapter in Newport Mill’s story. Newport Mill Middle School serves grades 6 through 8 and is part of the Montgomery County Public Schools system. The school’s diversity is a point of pride. Its student body reflects a vibrant tapestry of cultures with a significant Hispanic/Latino population, followed by Black/African American, White, and Asian American students. This multicultural atmosphere enriches the learning environment, fostering understanding and respect among students. Newport Mill Middle School is also known for its dedication to academic excellence and extracurricular activities. Students have access to a robust offering of athletic teams, from basketball and cross country to soccer and softball. Clubs cater to a wide range of interests, including the Asian American Lead (AALEAD), drama club, student government association, yearbook club, and the Gay-Straight Alliance club. Newport Mill Middle School also holds a special place in educational history. In 2006, Principal Nelson McLeod received the Distinguished Educational Leadership Award from The Washington Post for his significant contributions to student achievement. A few years later, in 2007, the school was recognized as a National School of Character for its success, diversity, and commitment to fostering respect, responsibility, and caring among its students. More recently, in 2017, Newport Mill Middle School received the National Foundation for Governor’s Fitness Councils DON’T QUIT Award, resulting in a $100,000 state-of-the-art fitness center. And in 2018, the school earned the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools designation for its commitment to environmental sustainability and health. From a historic gristmill to a modern middle school, Newport Mill’s journey is a testament to the power of community, education, and the enduring spirit of progress. As you stand here, consider the generations who have walked this ground, each leaving their mark, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Newport Mill Middle School’s story.