Saco Middle School math teacher Jessica Hamilton was awarded a 2023 Master in the Middle award from the New England League of Middle Schools. On the left is NELMS director Jeff Rodman and on the right is Saco Middle School science teacher Lindsay Wirsing. Saco School Department Photo

SACO — Saco Middle School math teacher Jessica Hamilton has won a Master in the Middle award from the New England League of Middle Schools.

The award was announced at the organization’s annual conference March 27 and 28.

“Paying attention to the learning needs of young adolescents and recognizing their unique developmental stage can make a significant difference in the lives of 10–14-year-olds,” said NELMS Director Jeff Rodman.

SMS grade six science teacher Lindsay Wirsing said one project Hamilton developed this school year was a school wide composting initiative.

“(She) led the charge and used math to bring it to the next level,” said Wirsing. ” Students on her team quickly took ownership of this project, collecting and counting trash, and creating a system that brought composting to Saco Middle School. The best part was that the students didn’t even realize they were doing math.”