Madison Reporter

The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District Board of Education met on August 25, 2025, to discuss a range of topics as the new school year begins. The meeting included a public hearing regarding Clark Street Community School’s request for a waiver from the state requirement to rank students by grade point average. Clark Street uses a competency-based system rather than traditional grades, and the Board approved a resolution authorizing the school to seek approval from the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to use exemplary artifacts for class ranking.

Superintendent Dr. Dana Monogue welcomed staff and families to the 2025-26 school year and thanked those involved in recent district events, including the New Educator Induction and Good Neighbor Festival Parade. She also recognized several board members for their participation in community activities.

Dr. Monogue introduced new administrators joining MCPASD this year, including principals and associate principals at multiple schools. She said she was excited about “the expertise and leadership each new administrator brings to the District” and thanked them “for their commitment to supporting students, staff, and families.”

Athletic Director Brad Crandell and Assistant Athletic Director Tyree Gamble presented highlights from athletics and activities in 2024–25. The Cardinals secured three WIAA State Championships in Boys Soccer, Girls Swim & Dive, and Boys Swim & Dive, along with numerous other titles across sports and activities. Marching Band, Color Guard, Debate teams, FBLA teams (with two national championships), DECA, HOSA students, Dance/Cheer teams all received recognition at various competitions.

Participation data showed that more than three-quarters of Middleton High School students engaged in at least one sport or activity last year. Students who participated had an average GPA higher than non-participants (3.53 vs 3.10). Plans for next year include expanding race and equity initiatives across programs.

Director of Special Education Cindy Malcheski reported on seclusion and restraint incidents as required by law. While seclusion incidents were slightly higher than last year with comparable restraint numbers, Malcheski emphasized that both strategies are used only as a last resort when there is imminent danger: “Malcheski expressed optimism that the use of Ukeru techniques will help further reduce seclusion and restraint incidents in 2025–26.” She affirmed “the District’s ongoing commitment to social-emotional learning” so all students feel belonging.

Shannon Valladolid led an overview of Communications Department efforts during 2024–25 which focused on digital communications upgrades—including moving websites from Google Sites to Thrillshare—and a district-wide branding refresh for elementary mascots with plans for broader logo redesign involving community input: “Valladolid closed by emphasizing that the Communications Department’s mission is to build trust, strengthen community connections, and ensure that all families feel informed, valued, and included.” The department supported major events such as educator induction sessions; local media coverage has increased as a result.

Representatives from McKinstry discussed plans for installing geothermal heating/cooling at Sauk Trail Elementary School due to aging equipment needs. Federal incentives are expected to offset much of the $3.5 million implementation cost; net costs would be $1.5 million after rebates with projected long-term savings exceeding $2 million over twenty years through reduced energy expenses.

Enrollment updates indicated increases since July: Elm Lawn Elementary School and Northside Elementary School added third-grade sections while Pope Farm Elementary continues resident growth but did not offer open enrollment this year; overall district enrollment grew by 121 students since last month.

The Board approved its annual DPI Food & Nutrition contract required for federal/state meal program participation; it also awarded sale of a $1,525,000 General Obligation Promissory Note Series 2025B—part of financing sustainability projects such as energy efficiency upgrades—with favorable terms supported by strong Moody’s AA1 rating.

Finally, board members reviewed/approved agenda items for their upcoming September annual meeting where they will present budget details along with resolutions covering tax levies/capital funds/board salaries/transportation reimbursements.