Madison Reporter

In the latest episode of "Monthly Update with Monogue," Superintendent Dr. Dana Monogue visited Glacier Creek Middle School to discuss the importance of school libraries. During her visit, she also highlighted the achievements of library media specialists, student clubs, and teachers within the District. Dr. Monogue provided updates on recent hiring decisions and efforts to appreciate staff.

In honor of National School Library Month, Dr. Monogue met with the Library Helpers Club at Glacier Creek Middle School. Christina Makos, the Library Media Specialist, along with students Amaya, Norah, Amelia, Nimer, Eric, James, and Emma, shared insights about the resources and opportunities offered by school libraries.

Amanda Struckmeyer, Library Media Specialist at West Middleton Elementary School, is working toward her Doctorate in Educational Sustainability and is preparing to publish her book, “Inspiring Teens, Tweens, and Families to Make a Difference in the World: Programming to Advance the Sustainable Development Goals,” scheduled for release in June with the American Library Association.

Wisconsin Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski visited Sauk Trail Elementary School on April 7 during National Library Week. Her visit included presenting a ceremonial check for $571,237 from the Common School Fund, supporting the majority of the state's public school libraries. Secretary Godlewski also engaged students by reading “Grace for President” and participating in a voting activity.

Fourth-grade students from the Two-Way Immersion Program at Sauk Trail Elementary School visited the Dane County Humane Society. This trip was part of their persuasive essay project, where students observed their pet adoption posters and learned about different shelter residents, including cats, rats, and guinea pigs. They also made dog treats and read books to the animals.

This April, MCPASD recognized several staff groups for their contributions to the schools, including National Paraprofessional Appreciation Day on April 3, Assistant Principals Week from April 7-11, and Administrative Professionals Day on April 23.

The VEX Chefs, a team from the Kromrey Middle School Robotics Club, have qualified for the VEX Robotics World Championship in May, which will be held in Dallas, Texas. They are refining their robot, named Gordon Ramsay 2.0, after winning the Wisconsin State Championship.

Middleton High School’s Model UN Club achieved multiple awards at the Wisconsin High School Model UN Conference, including Outstanding Large Delegation. Several students also received individual awards in various committees.

Megan Sipiorski, a social studies teacher at Middleton High School, was recognized as the 2025 Wisconsin High School Social Studies Teacher of the Year. Her creative teaching methods in the Legislative Semester Program were highlighted by the Wisconsin Council for the Social Studies.

Jennifer Magee, a fourth-grade teacher at Northside Elementary School, was awarded the 2025 Herb Kohl Teacher Fellowship for her leadership. This award includes a $6,000 personal grant and a matching grant for her school.

The District is set to welcome new principals for the 2025-2026 academic year. Bobbie Reinhart will become the new principal of Middleton High School following Peg Shoemaker's retirement. Nicki Victor will assume the role of Principal at Clark Street Community School and the 9-12 Innovation program at MHS after Dr. Jill Gurtner retires.

Karen Murphy has joined MCPASD as the new District Registrar, assisting families with children from age four up to grade 12. The Registrar’s Office operates throughout the school year and during certain times in the summer.

To commemorate the 60th work anniversary of Park Elementary School’s custodian, Mr. Peanuts, a fundraiser concert featuring musician Mollie B will be held on April 26 at the Middleton High School Performing Arts Center. Admission is free, but donations to support the MCPASD Education Foundation are welcome.

MCPASD received the 2025 Top Workplaces Award from the Wisconsin State Journal, acknowledging the dedication of its employees to the District's students, schools, and one another.