Madison Reporter

Middleton High School has announced that juniors Briana Carson and Sennie Kidau have been named Galin Scholars, the first time students from the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District have received this recognition.

The Galin Scholars program serves students in the greater Madison area who show strong academic potential and come from backgrounds underrepresented in higher education. Over a two-year period, participants receive individualized ACT preparation, college advising, academic tutoring, and access to extracurricular activities in academics or the arts. The program is provided at no cost to families.

“Briana and Sennie’s selection is a testament to their hard work, leadership, and commitment to their future,” said Middleton High School Principal Bobbie Reinhart. “We’re proud to see them take this important step toward college and beyond.”

This year marks the third cohort of Galin Scholars. Six rising 11th graders from Dane County were chosen for the program, including students from Sauk Prairie, Madison East, Madison Vel Phillips Memorial, and Verona Area high schools alongside those from Middleton.

Founded in 2022, Galin Scholars is funded by individual donors, businesses, education grants, and a partnership with Galin Education. The initiative aims to expand college preparation opportunities for students who may face barriers related to economic status or limited resources.

“College access and opportunity should be determined by academic talent and not limited by economic status,” said Chris Gomez Schmidt, executive director of Galin Scholars. “We are confident this opportunity will open new doors for our scholars.”

More information about the program can be found at www.galinscholars.org.