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Madison Metropolitan School District

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Mad for Reading

Mad for reading - student listening to a book
Mad for reading - student looking up from a book

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is committed to amplifying the brilliance of all students. MMSD is proud to launch our citywide "Mad for Reading'' initiative to deepen the joy, excitement and fundamental importance of literacy and bi-literacy. Literacy is not only a gateway to understanding and interacting with the world, it is the core of everything we do.

Through this initiative, we highlight MMSD's unwavering commitment to the educational success of our students and Madison's shared commitment to literacy. “Mad for Reading” is a powerful tool that drives engagement and success in the district’s broader educational goals.

In the coming months, get immersed in a world of possibilities. From thrilling reading challenges that ignite your competitive spirit to captivating author visits that bring stories to life, Mad for Reading has something for everyone to enjoy.

  • All-City Reads unites us as we delve into the pages of a shared book, sparking discussions and forging connections across our vibrant community.
  • Or imagine the joy of coming together for lively Book Clubs, where voices are heard and perspectives are valued.
  • Prepare for enchanting evenings filled with wonder at our Family Literacy Nights, where storytelling and creativity intertwine to create unforgettable memories for young and old alike.
  • Embrace the digital realm with our curated Digital Reading Resources and ignite your imagination with just the click of a button. Discover new worlds, learn new skills and embrace the power of community.
  • Mark your calendars for our Community Literacy Events. Join neighbors and friends to celebrate the magic of reading and the boundless opportunities it brings.

So, families and community members, gear up for a journey like no other. Together, let's dive into the wonder of words, the joy of storytelling, and the endless adventures that await within the pages of a book. Get ready to be “Mad for Reading!”

As we embark on this literary adventure, we invite families and community
members to join us in fostering a love for reading that knows no bounds.
Sign Up to be part of the Mad for Reading Movement and help write our next Chapter

Hispanic Heritage Month Book Suggestions

Hispanic Heritage Month Reading Lists

 

The science of reading is a collection of scientifically-based research about how children best learn to read. Learn more about Evidence-Based Reading Strategies as it relates to the 2023 Wisconsin Act 20.

Literacy Opportunities at Madison Public Libraries:

Dyslexia Awareness Month sign

 

Reading Brain Summit: Dyslexia Awareness Month Event

October 22 from 5-7:30 pm | Sequoya Library

Join local experts as we explore the brain science of reading and ADHD (and touch actual brains thanks to UW Neuroscience students!) This event is especially for parents, caregivers, educators, elementary school and older youth, and community members. Presenters will include: Kelly Pickens (Undivided Attention), Kelly Kuenzie (Children's Dyslexia Center--Madison), and the UW-Madison Neuroscience Training Program Outreach Committee. A light dinner will be served at 5 pm and programs will begin at 5:30 pm. 

If you'd like to start learning about the reading brain now, check out Madison Public Library's Learning to Read with Dyslexia - Books and Resources for Families, Educators and Elementary Students booklist online now.

Student receiving writing assistance

 

Chapters Teen Writing Club

Thursdays, 6-8pm | Pinney Library

Middle and high school students can meet other aspiring authors, bounce ideas off one another, share their stories, and feel the creativity flow! Writing club is led by local author Carole Madrzak.

Meets most Thursday evenings. Check Madison Public Library's calendar at madpl.org/calendar

Teen brainstorming writing ideas

 

Youth Graphic Novel Club

first Wednesday of every month, 5-5:50 pm | Pinney Library

Join us at Pinney Library on the first Wednesday of every month to discuss an older kids/tween graphic novel! No reservation needed. Light snacks provided. Get ready for next month's meeting on November 6, from 5-5:45pm. November's selection is Skull Cat. Book 1, Skull Cat  and the Curious Castle by Normal Shurtliff.

Here's a bit about the book: Even though the castle is an eerie place, full of dark secrets, Scully is excited to start his new job and prove himself to be a great gardener. But wait a minute… what happened to all his co-workers? Were they devoured by bloodthirsty vampires? Spooked by a love-struck ghost? Pranked by a comic-reading goblin? Enchanted by a sleepy sorcerer? Will Scully have to become the hero and uncover the truth behind Le Dark Chateau? He never signed up for this!!

 

Skull cat book cover

 

Writing Help for All Ages!

Madison Writing Assistance is for anyone in the community who writes, including children and teens! MWA’s experienced writing coaches can help with reading and writing projects of all kinds, six days a week at neighborhood libraries across the city. Patrons under 18 need to bring a parent along to sessions. Sign up for a session now through December 7! 

You may meet with an MWA instructor on:

  • Mondays 4-7pm at Lakeview Library
  • Tuesdays 11:30am-1:30pm at Goodman South Madison Library
  • Wednesdays 10am-12pm at Meadowood Neighborhood Center
  • Thursdays 4-7pm at Hawthorne Library
  • Fridays 3-6pm at Sequoya Library
  • Saturdays 1:30-4:30pm at Goodman South Madison Library

Make an appointment madpl.org/mwa

 

Literacy in Action…

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A students smiling while listening to instruction

What is the Science of Reading?

The science of reading is the converging evidence of what matters and what works in literacy instruction, organized around models that describe how and why.

Learn More

Three sudents picking out books in the library

Early Literacy and Beyond Task Force

MMSD and the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Education formed a joint task force focused on analyzing the most promising approaches to teaching reading and literacy.

Learn More