Discover Difference
Y o u r D r e a m , O n e T e a m
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R e a l t o r a n d d i v i d e d t h o s e i n t o s e p a r a t e
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a t r a d i t i o n a l R e a l t o r , p l e a s e c o n t a c t u s
W e ’ d l o v e t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t y o u !
6733 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave www SpencerREG com Team@SpencerREG com
There's something so special about Middleton Our community offers the best aspects of living and working in a small city with the dynamic of a larger city Plus, the school district's high level of academic and co-curricular achievements, prominent athletic programs, outstanding staff, and Green Ribbon awards are boast-worthy It's no surprise that Middleton has been named one of the top ten places to live in the U.S. many times over!
When I opened my own real estate brokerage in 2016 after 10 years as an agent, I knew I wanted to be based here in Middleton. While my team and I serve all of Dane County and the surrounding areas, there's nothing like being close to and working with our neighbors Over the last 18 years, we've helped over 700 people buy or sell homes in the area Many of the families we've helped I met within the community Whether it was while dropping my kids off at Northside Elementary and Kromery, attending Middleton Gators swim meets, Middleton United soccer games, or during the 10 years I served as a committee member on the city's Sustainability Committee. I feel fortunate to have met so many amazing folks working and living in this area.
My family and team love being part of the Middleton community We live, work, and play here If you're looking to buy or sell a home, I hope you consider choosing a real estate team that will treat you like a neighbor–because, well, we ARE your neighbor! Why don't you stop in and say hi sometime? My team and I would love to get to know you!
Spencer Schumacher
WELCOME TO THE 2024–2025 SCHOOL YEAR!
A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Dear Middleton–Cross Plains Area Students and Families,
As I embark on my thirty-second year in education and my sixth year serving as your Superintendent, I find it remarkable how swiftly time has passed, bringing us to yet another eagerly awaited first day of school.
This day marks not only a return to familiar routines and faces but also the beginning of new journeys, friendships, and discoveries within our vibrant school community. I am delighted to extend the warmest welcome to each of you, whether you are a returning student or a new student stepping into our halls for the first time. As we stand on the threshold of this new academic year, let us embrace the excitement and promise that the first day of school embodies.
Our mission is clear: We aim to prepare every student to contribute positively to both their community and the wider world. We strive to instill in our students a lifelong passion for learning, challenge them with a rigorous and innovative curriculum, and empower them through practices of inclusion and collaboration. We are committed to offering engaging lessons that inspire a love for learning and to fostering a welcoming atmosphere where everyone is valued and supported. With the ringing of the first school bell, we are reminded of these promises as we begin a new year together.
In preparation for the new school year, please use this backto-school magazine as an invaluable resource to help you, our students and families, prepare for your return and make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Sincerely,
Dr. Dana E. Monogue, Superintendent #WeBelieve @DrMonogue www.mcpasd.k12.wi.us
As we welcome another school year, my experiences over the last thirty-two years remind me of the simple joy found in each student’s journey of growth. Every new school year offers a fresh chapter, and I am eager to see the stories our students and teachers will write. It is in every lesson learned and challenge overcome that we see the true purpose of education. I am here to support and celebrate these moments, big and small.
Dr. Dana E. Monogue Superintendent
2024–2025 STRATEGY MAP GOALS
At the Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District, our mission is to educate all students to become contributing members of our community and to inspire in them a lifelong love of learning. Achieving this mission requires more than just stating it, — it demands a clear strategy and road map.
Since 2016, the District has collaborated with administrators and Board members, and has sought feedback from our staff, families, and community members to develop a comprehensive Strategy Map to guide our work. The process of formulating new goals for the upcoming school year begins in the winter, with the Strategy Map being approved during the summer. This document outlines goals from both the District and the Board of Education centered on our core beliefs, commitments, and priorities to create inclusive, innovative, and inspiring schools where every student thrives.
A DISTRICT WHERE STUDENTS BELONG & THRIVE
Board
Goal
● The District will analyze student achievement outcomes and prioritize a focus area for the next five years to ensure that reading proficiency for all students is at or above grade level.
District Goals
● Every student will graduate with their respective class by the end of the 2024–2025 school year.
● Every educator will use effective literacy practices that are culturally and linguistically responsive so that 85% of our students achieve the following by the 2025–2026 school year:
reading proficiency by the end of third grade as measured by the Wisconsin Forward Examination; reading proficiency by the end of eighth grade as measured by the Wisconsin Forward Examination; ACT reading score of 22.
These practices will be validated through the Educator Effectiveness Evaluation process.
A DISTRICT WHERE STAFF ARE EMPOWERED & SUPPORTED Board Goals
● Increase the number of staff of color in all employee groups until our staff demographics at least match our District demographics.
● Achieve a 90% retention rate in all employee groups.
District Goals
● Increase the percentage of teachers who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) to 7% by the beginning of the 2024–2025 school year.
● Maintain a 95% retention rate of staff who identify as BIPOC by the end of the 2024–2025 school year.
A DISTRICT THAT IS VALUED & TRUSTED Board Goals
● Develop and implement a stakeholder engagement process that provides the Board with consistent, timely, and actionable feedback from families, staff, and students.
● Develop and implement a financial benchmark identification process that provides meaningful comparison data for community stakeholders.
District Goals
● Maintain fidelity to safety and security protocols and partnerships with law enforcement agencies.
● Convene the Sustainability Committee with a charge to develop a comprehensive sustainability plan focused on environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and educational engagement by June 1, 2025.
Scan to explore our District’s Strategy Map. https://loom.ly/AwR2R7Y
BACK-TO-SCHOOL PARENT/ GUARDIAN CHECKLIST
Ready for the new school year? Check your list—not just once, but twice!
SCAN QR CODES TO ACCESS
Create and/or update your Parent Portal account.
https://loom.ly/ejS2kVE
Create and/or update your MyPaymentsPlus account.
https://loom.ly/leqDuA0
Check your school’s website for classroom supply lists.
https://loom.ly/5EaCflo
Check for information about school transportation.
https://loom.ly/tnD6Kg8
Check in with Technology Services for devices or forms.
https://loom.ly/ULzkdmI
Complete the Annual Student Verification (AVS) form.
https://loom.ly/0SWgmbM
IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR FAMILIES
The Annual Student Verification (ASV) process has begun. In late July, we provided the ASV form to all families via email. It is essential that you complete and submit this form for your student in order to confirm their enrollment in our District for the upcoming school year.
SECTIONS OVERVIEW
Privacy & Technology
District Website & Social Media | District Audience
● By marking “yes” in this category, you consent to your student’s image and video presence on the District’s online platforms, such as our website and social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn). This permission covers only Districtmanaged platforms, not public or broader audiences.
District Media Productions | Broader Audience
● By marking “yes” here, you are allowing your student to be featured in various District media, including printed materials (magazines, brochures, newsletters) and video productions. Materials produced here could be distributed widely across the community, reaching a large number of people.
● Our District Communications Team and schools are eager to showcase the wonderful activities within our schools. By marking “yes” in these two categories, you help us share more stories, photos, and videos with the community, celebrating student and school achievements.
Yearbook
● Opt in or out of including your student’s image in the yearbook.
Financial Services
● Fee Waiver: Determine your qualification for fee waivers related to school activities.
● Digital Equity: Assess needs for access to digital resources and the internet.
Please complete and submit the ASV form promptly to prepare your student for a successful school year.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL CALENDAR
NUTRITION SERVICES
DAVID MONTAG JOINS MCPASD AS NEW FOOD & NUTRITION SUPERVISOR
Hello, MCPASD Families,
It’s a pleasure to introduce myself as your new Food & Nutrition supervisor. I am genuinely excited to join you on this journey. My professional path has been filled with unique experiences, including time spent honing my skills in the renowned kitchens of the Pentagon and the White House, and preparing meals for wellknown figures around the world.
I look forward to using my broad culinary experience to continue improving the Food & Nutrition program in our District. I aim to ensure that our breakfast and lunch offerings are both delicious and nutritious, meeting the needs of our students.
David Montag Food & Nutrition Supervisor
2024–2025 Meal Pricing Adjustment
The Board of Education approved meal and milk price adjustments for the 2024–2025 school year in response to rising food and staffing costs. This decision builds on our commitment to fiscal responsibility, ensuring the continued financial independence of our Food & Nutrition program. With these changes, we aim to maintain a balance of offering quality, affordable meals and supporting our dedicated staff.
Ensuring That Every Student Thrives: Nutritional Support at MCPASD
Our District is committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive. We understand that some families may face challenges with meal costs, and we’re here to help.
2024–2025
Need Assistance? Look for application forms for meal and milk assistance to arrive in your mailbox soon. These forms are also available anytime at each school’s office and at the District Services Center at 7106 South Avenue in Middleton. Your information remains confidential, used solely for determining eligibility. Applications are accepted at any point during the school year, ensuring that support is there when your family needs it.
Stay Informed on School Meals with
Nutrislice Families can easily view student meal options through Nutrislice, a comprehensive menu-viewing platform.
Learn more about Nutrislice here.
https://loom.ly/Ndy_SRY
Learn more about Free and Reduced Meals here.
https://loom.ly/OFcTXbE
Free & Reduced Meals
Amy Gundeck
608-829-2344
agundeck@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Student Accounts
Rhonda Kalscheur 608-829-2343
rkalscheur@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Student Health & Allergies | School Menus
David Montag
608-829-2345
dmontag@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
For more detailed information about meal options and nutritional guidance, visit our Food & Nutrition web page. https://loom.ly/HX_TXMY
David Montag Food & Nutrition Supervisor
HEALTH SERVICES
A NOTE FROM OUR HEALTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
On behalf of the MCPASD Health Services Team, welcome to the 2024–2025 school year! Our team of school nurses and health assistants is excited to work with you to provide a safe and healthy environment for your student. We are busy preparing our health offices to serve students and may communicate with you to request further information. Please reach out to us with questions or concerns or visit our web page for more information.
Marcia Moe Health Services Coordinator
Staff Spotlight: Maggie Lowe
Meet Maggie! She is a school nurse who serves multiple school buildings, including Northside Elementary, Elm Lawn Elementary, and the Early Learning Center. Her favorite part of her role is engaging with students and their families to make the school environment a safe and healthy place for them to learn, grow, and achieve goals. Maggie is an avid reader and a coffee lover. Be sure to say hello to her the next time you stop by any of the buildings where she works!
Immunization Information
Before the school year starts, please be sure to fill out the immunization form and submit it to your school’s main office.
Immunization Updates
● Beginning in the 2024–2025 school year, students entering grades 7 and 12 will need to provide documentation that they have received a meningococcal vaccine, containing MenACWY. Please contact your physician for more information.
● All students must provide documentation by a qualified medical professional if they have experienced a chickenpox infection.
SCAN QR CODES TO ACCESS
Immunization Form – English
https://5il.co/2ogwf
Immunization Form – Spanish
https://5il.co/2ogx1
Medication Administration Form https://5il.co/2nm2p
Contact Your School Nurse
https://loom.ly/OTVL4Jk
Health Services Web Page https://loom.ly/Rcdna70
Additional Health Forms https://loom.ly/4DFeUhw
Please complete and submit these forms promptly to prepare your student for a successful school year.
Medications at School
If your student needs to take medication while at school, please complete the medication administration form and submit it to your school office before the beginning of the school year.
Marcia Moe Health Services Coordinator
TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
THE FIRST STOP ON A GREAT DAY!
Help Desk
Bus Pass
A bus pass is a safety measure to help us monitor when students get on and off the bus. Please remember to keep your bus pass to use again for the upcoming school year. If you have lost your bus pass, please submit a help desk ticket.
Meet Daniel and Jose! They are here to help families navigate any questions you have about transportation services or your student’s bus routes.
With the exception of emergencies, if you have a question regarding your student’s transportation, please submit a help desk ticket. A member of our Transportation Services Team will respond as soon as possible.
Did you know that Daniel also helps drive the school buses?
Scan the QR code to submit a help desk ticket.
https://loom.ly/LMrRiKw
STOPFINDER APP
Submit a help desk ticket today to request an invitation to the Stopfinder app! This helpful tool allows you to see when and where your student has been picked up or dropped off by their bus. It also allows you to track your student’s bus routes and much more.
Transportation Services Web Page
The Transportation Services web page is your one-stop shop for all transportation information and forms.
Scan the QR code to learn about the Stopfinder app.
https://loom.ly/pB1VCIg
Scan the QR code to visit the Transportation Services web page. https://loom.ly/tnD6Kg8
INFINITE CAMPUS / MY PAYMENTS PLUS
Scan the QR code to log in to Infinite Campus.
https://loom.ly/LSK89a0
Scan the QR code to log in to MyPaymentsPlus.
https://loom.ly/leqDuA0
INFINITE CAMPUS
Your Student & Family Data Center
Infinite Campus, often referred to as the Parent Portal or Campus Portal, is your one-stop shop for student and family information. A few of the many uses for Infinite Campus include:
● Updating your personal and household information
● Viewing your student’s grades
● Requesting an absence
● Viewing your student’s transportation information, including bus routes
MY PAYMENTS PLUS
School Fees Made Simple
MyPaymentsPlus is your one-stop shop for registering your student for clubs, athletics, field trips, and more! If your student is interested in a particular club or organization, you can search for it in the portal search bar under the “Events and Activities” tab. Here you can complete the registration and pay any club fees. Did you know that you can also manage your student’s lunch balance on the MyPaymentsPlus portal? You can set prepaid amounts on your student’s account and manage low-balance alerts.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
WELCOME TO THE 2024–2025 SCHOOL YEAR
Your Board of Education’s Commitment to Excellence
Dear Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District Community, As we enter the 2024–2025 school year, we, the Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District Board of Education, are excited to renew our commitment to the students, families, and staff of our District. Our team of nine dedicated Board members is here to ensure that we continue to provide the highest standard of education and experiences to the 7,200+ students in our District and that MCPASD continues to be a great place for our 1,200+ staff members to work.
Understanding the significance of our role in the public education system, we constantly strive to fulfill our responsibilities thoughtfully and effectively. Our functions range widely—from ensuring that the superintendent’s leadership aligns with our District’s values to adopting annual budgets that reflect our commitment to progress and equity. We lead with a goal-oriented approach, always concentrating on the broad outcomes we wish to achieve for our community.
Moreover, we pride ourselves on being community ambassadors who listen and engage genuinely with the voices around us. It is through your insights and feedback that we are able to celebrate our collective successes and address the challenges that come our way.
Under the steadfast guidance of Board President Sheila Dahmen Hibner, and alongside Superintendent Dr. Dana E. Monogue and her leadership team, we are dedicated to continuing to position MCPASD as one of the top school districts in Wisconsin. Addressing learning gaps and affirming that every child experiences success and positivity in their educational journey remain at the forefront of our mission.
Maintaining transparency, building trust, and nurturing relationships are the cornerstones of our service philosophy. To this end, we are not only decision-makers but also listeners and advocates who passionately believe that a high-performing school district is the pulse of a flourishing community.
We warmly welcome your stories of triumph, invite your thoughtful concerns, and are eager to address the hurdles you may face. Your engagement is invaluable to us because every child deserves a champion—and together, we have the power to ensure that our District thrives.
Here’s to a year of growth, achievement, and shared prosperity. Let us make the 2024–2025 school year an exceptional chapter in our District’s history.
With gratitude and eagerness to serve, The Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District Board of Education
2024–2025
SCHOOL BOARD
Sheila Dahmen Hibner President - Area I shibner@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Bob Green
Vice President - Area II
bobg@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Catherine Kells
Treasurer - Area II
catherinek@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Tabitha Hansen
Clerk - Area III
tabithah@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Todd Berry Board Member - Area IV toddb@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Marni Ginsberg
Board Member - Area IV
marniashag@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Bob Hesselbein
Board Member - Area IV roberth@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Bartlett Durand
Board Member - Area V
kemperd@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Katie Frank
Board Member - Area IV
kathrynf@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
SAFETY & SECURITY
WELCOME ASHER TORBECK, OUR NEW SAFETY & SECURITY COORDINATOR!
We are thrilled to welcome Asher Torbeck to our team. With a background as a US Army infantryman and working in law enforcement for over 15 years, Asher brings a wealth of expertise in security. His military service, including two tours in Iraq, and his extensive police work inform his deep commitment to safety. Asher has spent the last decade training schools, churches, and businesses in handling active threats, reflecting his passionate dedication to protective services, particularly in educational settings.
Asher’s enthusiasm for contributing to a school environment goes beyond professional duties. It’s a personal passion for him. “I’ve found my true calling working within the school system, guiding and protecting our community’s future,” he states. His experience as a School Resource Officer underscores his commitment.
When not enhancing our security measures, Asher enjoys family life, supporting his children in their various sports and activities. Let’s warmly welcome Asher, who eagerly joins us to create a secure and nurturing school community for all.
Enhancing Safety through Collaboration: MCPASD’s Partnership with Local Law Enforcement
The Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District prioritizes student safety through a strong partnership with local law enforcement, featuring three School Resource Officers (SROs) embedded in our schools. SRO Rodger Siver at Glacier Creek Middle School, SRO Kim Wood at Middleton High School, and SRO Julie Carbon at Kromrey Middle School are not only trained first responders but also vital contributors to a positive school atmosphere. They enhance security, offer mentorship, and provide educational support, bridging the gap between students, staff, and police services. This integration allows for an effective emergency response and fosters a nurturing environment where students feel secure and empowered.
Julie Carbon
Asher Torbeck Safety & Security Coordinator
Kim Wood
Rodger Siver
CRISIS ACTION PLANS: ENSURING A RAPID, COORDINATED RESPONSE
MCPASD has five comprehensive crisis action plans that provide detailed guidance on how to respond to any emergency situation. These plans are regularly reviewed and practiced through drills involving staff, students, and local emergency responders.
● Classroom Hold: Stay in class or outside. Lock all doors. (situation in the building)
● Building Secure: Stay inside. Lock all windows and doors. (situation is outside or near the building)
● Shelter in Place: Stay inside and go to shelter locations. (for threatening weather)
● Evacuation: Get outside and go to short-term rally points with your teacher. (hazard inside building - fire, gas leak, etc.)
● Active Threat: Barricade or escape. If outside, go to rally point for reunification. (immediate threat of active violence)
MCPASD Emergency Reunification Process
If an emergency requires students to be evacuated from their school building, the District will activate its reunification protocol to ensure an orderly process for reuniting students with their parents or guardians at a designated off-site location. The site for reunification will depend on the situation and may include facilities such as another school, a community center, or a church, identified in collaboration with emergency services. Communication about the reunification site will be disseminated promptly through texts, emails, social media, and the District website. It is imperative that parents and guardians refrain from going to an evacuated school building, which could be under law enforcement control.
Upon reaching the reunification site, parents and guardians should:
● Provide a valid photo ID
● Be the student’s recognized guardian or an emergency contact
● Check in and give their student’s name for verification This approach ensures student safety. Only verified adults will be allowed to pick up students.
Remember to:
1. Stay put.
2. Stay informed.
3. Be ready.
Scan the QR code to view our reunification plan. https://loom.ly/BNv2UMQ
TECHNOLOGY
A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Hello, Students, Families, Staff, and Friends, The Technology Services Department has been working throughout the summer to prepare for the first day of school. We are busy preparing personal devices for staff and students, installing new interactive flat-panel boards in elementary schools, and ensuring that the digital infrastructure of the District is in top shape.
In a greater effort to support safe digital learning experiences, the District rolled out a new parent/family app called Qustodio last August. This app allows parents and families to see how students are using District-issued Chromebooks and other school applications. More information about the app can be found at www.qustodio.com and on the MCPASD Technology Services web page, which can be viewed at bit.ly/mcpasdtechnology
The Technology Services web page continues to grow with resources that provide information for staff, students, and families. Be sure to check out the “Families” tab for more information on internet safety, digital citizenship, and other District-supported resources.
We have received many questions about AI (Artificial Intelligence) and how it fits into teaching and learning in our schools. The District has been hard at work this summer creating policies around AI, including expectations for our school community on how to safely use these resources. More information will be shared as it becomes available later this summer and into the fall.
Thank you to our Technology Services youth apprentices! We currently have five youth apprentices (four new to the team this summer) who are helping with summer projects and will then go on to support our student help desk at the high school. We are so thankful for their hard work and dedication to helping support our department.
As we near the end of the summer, Technology Services is excited to welcome students and staff back to school to help support them with all of their technology needs. We look forward to seeing everyone again soon!
Brian Miles Director of Technology Services
Did You Know?
MCPASD Technology Services provides all staff and students with a personal computing device during the school year. Almost 9,000 devices circulate within the District under the support of our amazing Technology Services Team!
Brian Miles Director of Technology Services
CONTACT US
4K / Early Learning Center
608-829-9067
Principal Katie Kavanaugh kkavanaugh@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Elm Lawn Elementary
608-829-9070
Principal Lisa Rust lrust@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Northside Elementary 608-829-9130
Principal Sylla Zarov szarov@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Park Elementary
608-829-9250
Principal Brett Humphrey bhumphrey1@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Pope Farm Elementary 608-826-7700
Principal Jessica Taylor jtaylor@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Sauk Trail Elementary 608-829-9190
Principal Chris Dahlk cdahlk@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Sunset Ridge Elementary 608-829-9300
Principal Brett Wilfrid bwilfrid@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
West Middleton Elementary 608-829-9360
Principal Mandy Harvey aharvey@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Principal Kenneth Metz kmetz@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Kromrey Middle School
608-829-9595
Principal Dom Ricks dricks@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Clark Street Community School 608-829-9640
Principal Jill Gurtner jgurtner@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Middleton High School 608-829-9660
Principal Peg Shoemaker pshoemaker@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
There are many reasons I felt compelled to join MCPASD. My colleagues are amazing, working tirelessly every day to provide an experience that helps all students grow. My students and their families have shown an amazing passion for learning, which continues to energize my love for teaching. The last reason is the community; they continue to show up for one another. This is why I know that MCPASD is the place for me to be.
— Amy Ewy
Third-Grade Teacher
Elm Lawn Elementary
Going through MCPASD for my own schooling taught me to have high expectations and believe that my direct supervisors truly value my thoughts and opinions as a professional. My favorite part of teaching at MCPASD has been the relationships I have built with students, families, and colleagues.
— Emily Sheahan
Special Education Teacher
Elm Lawn Elementary
