Address: 13881 Kern Road, Mishawaka, IN 46544
Phone: (574) 968-9628
Fax: (574) 633-2134
Jen Sinclair, Principal
Greg Stover, Assistant Principal
Eric Spatt, Assistant Principal
Karen Barcome, Treasurer
Ruth Ebright, Office Aide
Christina Johnson, Secretary
Click here for a list of Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation contacts.
History
Grissom Middle School was built in 1968 and serves students from Elm Road, Madison, Moran and Meadow’s Edge Elementary schools.
Academic Programs
Grissom features a distinctive instructional model that emphasizes interdisciplinary teamwork among teachers. In addition to core classes, our curriculum encompasses fine arts, practical arts, physical education, and health education. Students can participate in enriching experiences such as band, choir, and orchestra, ensuring a well-rounded education.
We offer school-wide enrichment initiatives and academic competitions that empower students to push their limits and excel. Our inclusive program caters to students with exceptional learning needs, ensuring that every student receives the support needed to succeed. Additionally, our focused instructional programs are designed to promote achievement across all levels of learning.
Established in 2004, our National Junior Honor Society recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. At Grissom, we are committed to providing a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for future success.
THE IDOE'S GRADUATES PREPARED TO SUCCEED DASHBOARD provides student-focused data to empower Indiana’s educators & families with information on how we are preparing our students for college and career success. Click here to view our GPS Report Card.
For State Accountability purposes, the State Board has placed all schools into the “No Grade” category for the 2022-2023 school year. Therefore, a state report card for 2022-2023 is not available.
Parent Involvement
Grissom has a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) which provides strong support to the school and students. Many volunteer hours are logged by members to assist in activities and special projects. The funds raised by the PTA are distributed to benefit all students at Grissom.
Honors and Achievements
Grissom has been recognized as a Four Star School by the Indiana Department of Education for the 2014-2015, 2013-2014, and 2011-2012 school years. In addition, we earned the prestigious Gold Star Counseling School designation in both 2016 and 2017.
In 2024, Grissom Middle School was awarded the IDOE Educational Excellence in Academic Gains award, with a grant of up to $177,000! The Excellence in Academic Gains Award recognizes an individual school that has made the most progress in improving achievement for all students. One or more of the following must be demonstrated by the award recipient:
- Increased academic achievement for students as indicated by ILEARN English/language arts/Mathematics assessment results
- prioritization of initiatives focused on accelerating learning
- implementation of progress monitoring and evidenced-based practices for students in need of extra support
Our students consistently excel across academic, music, and athletic competitions, garnering numerous awards. During the 2023-2024 school year, Grissom students worked hard to earn coveted awards in various academic and extracurricular areas:
Orchestra: 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Orchestra students earned a coveted Gold Plaque at the ISSMA Organizational Contest during the 2023-2024 school year.
Band: Grissom 6th and 8th grade bands earned a Gold Rating, with 7th grade earning Silver.
Chorus: Grissom’s Treble Choir earned a Gold Rating at ISSMA, with the 7th/8th grade choir earning a Silver Rating.
Grissom’s Spellbowl team ranked 14th in the state, with one perfect speller, Lucy Schmidt!
Academic Super Bowl:
Math team 2nd place
Science team 2nd place
English team 1st place
Social Studies 1st place
Interdisciplinary 3rd place
Grissom Girls 7th and 8th grade volleyball teams made it to semi-finals!
These accolades reflect our commitment to excellence and the holistic development of every student at Grissom.
Robotics Team: Team Circuit Breakers made it to Semi State for the first time in five years!
Facilities/Activities/Resources
1:1 Technology, every student has a Chromebook to take home
WGMS Television studio
Academic competitions program
Student Council
Annual coffee house which showcases Fine Arts
Performing Fine Arts (band, orchestra, and chorus)
Jazz Band
Circle the State with Song
Positive School Wide Behavior program
School wide FOCUS instructional program
Athletic teams
After school intramural program
Boys & Girls Club
Riley Club
National Junior Honor Society
Debate Team
Advisory Clubs
Lego League/ Robotics
Mission Statement
The Grissom Middle School staff and community are committed to inspiring students to reach their potential by encouraging academic achievement, fostering the development of a positive self-concept, promoting life-long learning, and nurturing the development of productive and responsible citizens who can adapt to an ever-changing world.
Grissom students will attend Penn High School.
Colors: Red and white (blue accent)
Mascot: Guardsmen