Dear Madison Community,
Welcoming back students is one of the most exciting times of the year. From cleaning spaces to organizing classrooms, teachers and staff worked diligently to prepare for students’ arrival. We look forward to our buildings coming alive with the sounds of more students echoing throughout our schools…their voices in hallways and classrooms, their footsteps during a game in the gym, songs in music rooms, and laughter on the playground. Their energy and excitement can be felt in our schools.
That energy is a powerful reminder of all the potential our young learners hold. School isn’t only a place that prepares students academically, it’s also where they can discover their interests and explore their strengths. Whether it’s academics, the arts, athletics, music, or any other school activity that motivates them, it’s important that we guide and inspire them to learn and grow.
The Madison Metropolitan School District provides many opportunities designed to help all our students excel. Most recently, we launched a five-day, full day 4K program at Olson Elementary School. Additionally, we’ve expanded full day 4K offerings at Huegel, Lapham, Midvale, and Muir elementary schools as well as at a number of Head Start sites.
The increase in these programs helps meet some of the strong demand from families who need access to these high-quality learning options. It also reflects Madison Metropolitan School District’s (MMSD) strong commitment to building a solid educational foundation for our youngest learners through a well-rounded early learning experience. These investments will continue to be a priority because they are key to ensuring all students have equitable access to the early learning and early literacy experiences provided by MMSD.
This summer, in partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund, we launched the very first Freedom Schools site in Wisconsin at Mendota Elementary School. Fifty young scholars participated in the six-week program. Inspired by the 1964 Mississippi Freedom Summer, Freedom Schools are designed to uplift students through literacy, cultural identity, and community. Each morning began with Harambee, a Swahili word meaning “let’s pull together,” setting a warm and welcoming environment through songs, affirmations and a guest read-aloud from a community member. Discussions are already underway for next year’s programming, which we are hoping to expand.
As we head into the new school year, I want to say thank you to all who support our students and help them thrive. It takes a village to raise a child, and it’s clear that Madison is committed to our students and their success. Thank you to our families for placing their trust in us to educate and care for their children. Your children are at the center of the work we do. Thank you to our broader community, including neighbors, partners, organizations and businesses, for the support and opportunities you provide to help our students learn and grow.
Together, we are responsible for uplifting our students and providing them with the support, education and tools they need to be college, career, and community ready. Their success is our success because not only will they strengthen Madison, but they will have an impact on the world.
In partnership,
Joe Gothard, Ed. D.
Superintendent
