October 23, 2023 Board of Education Recap
Recognizing Organizations | 2023 Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) Business Honor Roll
In the recent board of education meeting, five organizations were acknowledged for winning the 2023 WASB Business Honor Roll. These organizations have made significant contributions to our district, and we extend our sincere gratitude to them for their exceptional efforts. The organizations recognized are as follows:
WayForward Resources (formerly Middleton Outreach Ministry): WayForward Resources is dedicated to ensuring individuals and families throughout Dane County have access to nourishing food. Their partnership with our social workers and education foundation has been invaluable, providing us with food and personal hygiene items to better support our students, staff, and families. We deeply appreciate their dedication and the impact they make in uplifting and empowering our community.
Bridging Brighter Smiles, Inc.: Bridging Brighter Smiles, Inc. is a remarkable school-based program that offers preventative dental care to students in our district. With their continuous efforts for over 7 years, they have provided free or low-cost dental work, ensuring that our students have access to essential oral healthcare services. We commend their commitment to promoting healthy smiles and wellness among our students.
USI Insurance Services: USI Insurance Services is a highly valued benefits consultant for our district. Their intentional approach to giving back to our community, particularly during the holiday season, is admirable. They have made generous donations to a local food bank on behalf of Public Employers throughout Wisconsin, aligning with our core values and commitment to making a positive impact.
One Community Bank - Middleton: One Community Bank - Middleton has been an incredible sponsor and partner for our district. They have played a vital role in the development of our new stadium complex, enhancing our sporting facilities and providing exceptional experiences for our students and community. We express our deepest appreciation to One Community Bank - Middleton for their continued support and investment.
Lake Ridge Bank: We are fortunate to have the dedicated support of Lake Ridge Bank as a generous sponsor for our district. Their commitment to our community is evident through their sponsorship of our new stadium complex, contributing to its development and success. Thanks to their contributions, our students and community members now have access to an exceptional sporting venue. We are truly grateful for their ongoing partnership.
Superintendent’s Report
In the Superintendent's report, Dr. Dana Monogue highlighted several achievements and updates, including:
Congratulating the Marching Band for placing fourth at the recent state-wide competition and recognizing the Color Guard for being selected as "Best in State" for the second consecutive year.
Extending congratulations to the fall sports teams for their post-season success and appreciating the student athletes and their coaches.
Thanking the staff and families for engaging in family/student conferences, acknowledging the importance of these interactions and the effort put into making them meaningful.
Noting that there will be no school on Thursday and Friday, making it a short week for the district.
Wisconsin Student Assessment System Board Report
Assistant Superintendent Silvia Romero-Johnson and District Assessment Coordinator Nick Wasmund provided an overview of the most recent data release from the Wisconsin Student Assessment on core academic areas. The report highlighted the following key points:
MCPASD students continue to score above state averages on all WSAS assessments, with participation rates approaching pre-pandemic levels this year.
While achievement gaps persist for certain groups like multilingual, economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities, positive growth trends are evident.
MCPASD graduation rates increased to over 98% in 2022-23.
Compared to other Dane County districts, MCPASD ranks at or near the top on WSAS tests.
Click here to read the recent communication sent to all families regarding the WSAS assessment.
Special Education Overview
Director of Special Education Cindy Malcheski and three special education coordinators provided a general overview of special education in the district. The report covered special education law, services, evaluation, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), placement, and data trends.
Key points from the presentation included:
Overall enrollment is declining, but the percentage of students with disabilities has increased.
The rate of students with disabilities in the district is lower than the state average.
Disability categories have remained fairly consistent over time.
Staffing levels are maintained to ensure caseloads align with guidelines.
A comprehensive special education program evaluation is being conducted in partnership with WestEd, and their findings will be presented at a later date.
Official Third Friday Enrollment Update
Deputy Superintendent Sherri Cyra and Assistant Superintendent of Operations Jerrud Rossing provided an update on the Official Third Friday Enrollment information for the district. The update indicated declining enrollment, especially at the 4K and elementary levels. Factors contributing to this decline include a tight real estate market, high housing costs, a decline in birth rates, and some shift to private schools. The enrollment figures for the past few years are as follows:
2019: 7530 students
2020: 7364 students
2021: 7229 students
2022: 7237 students
2023: 7042 students
Items for Approval
The board discussed and approved two items during the meeting:
Adopting the 2023-2024 Budget: The board of education unanimously approved the adoption of the budget for the upcoming academic year and the certification of the tax levy in the amount of $84,080,923.
Recommendation for Athletics Facilities Improvements (Design, Engineering & Construction): The board unanimously approved the district to move forward with the Request for Proposal (RFP) process to hire a firm to perform the design, engineering and construction management services for the high school athletics improvements that include upgrades to existing baseball field, creation of a competition softball field and reconstruction of the tennis courts.
For more detailed information on these agenda items, the board agenda packets can be found here.