Early work associated with the Madison Metropolitan School District’s 2024 facilities referendum has begun in earnest, as discussed at this week's operations work group meeting of the Board of Education.
2024 Referenda
On Monday, June 24, 2024, the Madison Metropolitan School District’s Board of Education voted unanimously to approve two referendum questions, one for facilities and one for operations.
Voters overwhelmingly supported both referenda on the November 5 ballot. The results show that our community continues to be committed to investing in our students. We have important work ahead of us and look forward to engaging with the community to make Madison a destination school district.
- Voters approved the $100 Operational Referendum with an 69% in favor, ensuring vital investments staff and student programs.
- Voters approved the $507 Facilities Referendum with 72% in favor, ensuring vital infrastructure improvements to 10 school buildings.
Operations Referendum
The proposed operational referendum totaling $100 million over four years is equipping our teachers to inspire and educate. This referendum will enable MMSD to offer competitive salaries and benefits, including tackling the escalating costs of healthcare premiums that have outpaced standard increases.
Facilities Referendum
The Facilities Referendum is about equipping our students with the tools and spaces they need to thrive. It's about preparing them to be future-ready and successful in an ever-evolving world. By investing in our middle school buildings, we're investing in the potential of every student and our community.
Additional Resources
Additional resources related to both referendums are available to help provide a deeper understanding of the upcoming decisions. These materials offer valuable information to support informed decision-making and ensure that all stakeholders have access to the facts they need to engage in the process.
About Public School Funding
The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is at a pivotal transition time. Over the past 12 years, MMSD has navigated fiscal challenges stemming from inadequate state resources for public education. As we continue to embark on a journey to transform instruction and enhance school climate, we’re facing ongoing disruptive cuts from the state.
2024 Referendum Updates
Project Schedule
Budget Update
School | Timeline | Budget |
---|---|---|
Malcolm Shabazz City High School/ Sherman Middle School |
Phase 1: 11/2024-10/2027 | $108,300,000 |
Black Hawk Middle School/Gompers Elementary School | Phase 1: 11/2024-10/2027 | $84,200,000 |
Toki Middle School/Orchard Ridge Elementary School | Phase 2: 11/2025-10/2028 | $90,800,000 |
Cherokee Heights Middle School | Phase 2: 11/2025-10/2028 | $70,600,000 |
Sennett Middle School | Phase 3: 11/2026-10/2029 | $89,000,000 |
Renovations | ||
Milele Chikasa Anana Elementary School | Phase 3: 11/2026-10/2029 | $31,900,000 |
Crestwood Elementary School | Phase 3: 11/2026-10/2029 | $32,200,000 |
Total | $507,000,000 |
Exciting things are happening…
Thank you, Madison voters, for supporting our students, our community, and public education this Election Day. We are very grateful to you.
Aeronautical engineer-turned-middle school teacher, Jesus Cortez uses his love for problem solving to empower students in his special education math class by building their confidence in math and themselves.
Though MMSD is set to receive an increase in its amount of state general aid, those funds do not lessen or eliminate the need for an operations referendum.
Dr. André Small, a business education teacher at East High School, shares his extensive career experience to engage students in personal finance and career exploration, preparing them for life beyond high school.
Pam Ziemlewicz, math teacher at Toki Middle School, creates a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment that helps students succeed academically, emotionally and socially.
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction released its estimates of general school aid for the 2024–25 school year, earmarking a projected $51.4 million for MMSD. Though $1.4 million more than anticipated, that aid is short of what's necessary to fully fund things like curriculum, classroom supplies and staff wages.
Margaret Jenks has performed at Carnegie Hall, conducts for the Madison Youths Symphony and coaches music teachers across the country. She recently earned a residency with opera soprano Kiena Williams to create an impactful experience for Hamilton middle schoolers.
Twenty teachers and staff members from MMSD have been selected to join a new leadership preparation program with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, thanks to funding from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Fast Forward Industry Sectors Worker Training grant program.
Students like Vel Phillips Memorial High School senior Guadalupe Perez are ready for a future career in the automotive industry, thanks to hands-on learning and a youth apprenticeship.
In celebration of Better World Day, students at Leopold Elementary took the lead in promoting literacy and spreading joy through storytelling.
West High School “Amigos” foster meaningful interactions with Spanish dual language learners at Midvale Elementary. These young learners improve their Spanish proficiency by working with new, older friends.
Results from a poll commissioned by the Madison Public Schools Foundation, and the district's Long Range Facilities Plan were shared at a May 6, 2024 special meeting with the Board of Education.
Students received hands-on experience from mentors in architecture, construction, and engineering fields through site visits, guest speakers, and a final design project.
Multiple roles work within MMSD’s Office of Multilingual Programs and Services to support the district’s growing multilingual education offerings.
In the Madison Metropolitan School District, bilingual programs are offered in 23 schools. Bilingual education opens doors to enhanced communication, cultural understanding, and broader career opportunities.
Middle school students can participate in cross country, wrestling, volleyball, cheerleading, and pom/dance at their future high school.