Welcome

A teacher and students holding a "We are Luna" poster

About Grissom

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 Middle School is a high-performing middle school in Mishawaka, Indiana, serving grades K-5 as part of the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, one of northern Indiana’s top-ranked school districts.

P-H-M ranks in the Top 5% of ILEARN Spring 2026 ILEARN performance. P-H-M students outperformed the state average again by 21.5 percentage points in English Language Arts (ELA) and 18.2 points in Mathematics. Click here to get more details and performance by grade level.

P-H-M students are consistently outperforming statewide peers across grade levels and subject areas. District Grade 8 ELA pass rate is 71% in 2026, while the state is 44%. That puts P-H-M 27 points above the state. Grade 8 math remains exceptionally strong as well: 58% passed versus 34% statewide, a 24-point advantage. 

Penn High School’s 2025-2026 SAT pass percentage ranks #8 in the state for SAT scores–20% above the state average. Penn High School’s graduation rate is 98%.

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

Special Facilities/Resources

  • 1:1 Technology, every student has a Chromebook to take home
  • WGMS Television studio
  • Annual coffee house which showcases Fine Arts
  • Positive School Wide Behavior program
  • School wide FOCUS instructional program 
  • Advisory Clubs 

Activities

  • Academic competitions program
  • After school club program
  • Athletic teams
  • Fine arts/life management programs
  • Intramural/recreation program
  • National Junior Honors Society program
  • Performing fine arts (band, orchestra, chorus, piano)
  • Student council
  • Boys & Girls Club
  • Riley Club
  • Debate team
  • 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.

Colors:        

Red and white (blue accent) 

 

Mascot:         

Guardsmen