For too long, the middle grades have been racked by a mistaken narrative that this age group is simply too difficult, or that it's a time in life when one must simply endure rather than thrive. The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) rejects that narrative. It is time for a unified policy agenda in support of the middle grades. This Policy Agenda reflects a future-focused set of recommendations that will move our education system toward one in which all students can thrive and positioning all students for success in later life. Accomplishing these aims will provide federal recognition for the middle grades as a distinct educational phase, support a diverse, professional workforce equipped to meet the unique developmental needs of this age group, advance promising, research-based practices that could be replicated across the country, and open new opportunities for middle schoolers to explore their future possibilities when it matters most. Finally, it will address the acute, ongoing mental health crisis, providing students essential supports and resources. [This article was written by The Association for Middle Level Education.]