2023-2024 Community Connection Magazine by mcpasd

A MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT

To our community,

On behalf of the Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District Board of Education, I want to tell you how grateful I am for your support of our schools. Your dedication to our students and your commitment to education have played a crucial role in shaping the success of our School District.

Over the course of a school year, you rise up every time you are asked. Whether it’s an individual school your generosity is on full display Your willingness to invest in the future of our community enables us to provide the highest quality education to our students. Thank you for your conﬁdence in us!

Funding for public schools in Wisconsin is often challenging, and the support of our community is paramount to ensuring that we can meet the needs of all students and provide them with the resources they deserve Your continued support and advocacy have a signiﬁcant impact on our ability to deliver opportunities for all students.

Sincerely,

Sheila Dahmen Hibner President, Board of Education

Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District

Sheila Dahmen Hibner Board of Education President

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Dear esteemed MCPASD community,

I am thrilled to share the remarkable accomplishments of our students, the extraordinary dedication of our staff, and the steadfast support from you, our incredible community.

Our students are uniquely talented and brilliant. Their determination and commitment to learning inspire us daily and fuel our passion for education.

Behind every accomplished student stands a team of talented and devoted staff members. Their commitment to excellence and their tireless efforts ensure that our students receive a comprehensive education that includes a wide variety of academic and cocurricular options. We truly offer something for everyone, and we are constantly listening to our students to gather ideas for additional programs or opportunities that could benefit them.

Our success would not be possible without the support of our amazing community. Your belief in us and your understanding that high quality schools mean stronger and more vibrant communities propel us forward and help us maintain competitiveness in the region.

Together, we are fostering an environment that nurtures the talents of our students, empowering them to achieve, explore, and excel in every endeavor.

Thank you for your invaluable support. With your continued involvement, we will build a brighter future for our community.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Dana E. Monogue

Dr. Dana E. Monogue Superintendent #WeBelieve @DrMonogue

www.mcpasd.k12.wi.us

Every day, I am driven by the profound responsibility and joy to cultivate an environment where each child can thrive. Success for our students isn’t just about scores; it’s about supporting their dreams, encouraging their interests, and helping them become strong, thoughtful, and capable individuals. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our students grow, overcoming challenges and achieving milestones on their unique educational journeys.

Dr. Dana E. Monogue Superintendent

2023–2024

SCHOOL YEAR

246 HIGHLIGHTS

Inclusive. Innovative. Inspiring. With these values at the forefront, the Middleton–Cross Plains Area School District (MCPASD) looks back at the 2023-2024 school year, highlighting our dedication to fostering quality education and community involvement.

MCPASD was named the #1 school district in Dane County for 2024 by Niche.com.

Pope Farm Elementary School was named the #1 best public elementary school in Wisconsin by Niche.com.

Kromrey Middle School was named the #1 middle school in Dane County for 2024 by Niche.com.

HERB KOHL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Middleton High School seniors Isha Chilukuri and Charlotte Kosek each earned a $10,000 Herb Kohl Scholarship.

60%

of MCPASD employees have a master’s or doctorate degree.

1,676

Middleton High School students took Advanced Placement examinations in 34 subject areas. 78% of these students earned a 3 or higher.

The Food Services team serves over 12,000 breakfasts each month.

Middleton High School was ranked as the #1 high school in Madison by USnews.com.

Sauk Trail Elementary School received a generous $20,000 donation from Weed Man Lawn Care Service.

32 15

Congratulations to our 15 National Merit Scholarship finalists.

Between 2004 and 2023, Middleton High School has had 246 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

MCPASD has proudly achieved 7 consecutive years of clean financial audits.

Middleton High School currently has 32 youth apprentices who are finishing their programs with local employers.

Middleton High School athletics made a historic achievement with 4 state championships in one year.

For 2023, our combined SAT reading/writing and math scores of 1384 exceeded the state average by 334 points.

Dr. Irene Ann Resenly of Kromrey Middle School was named the Middle School Teacher of the Year by the Wisconsin Council for the Social Studies.

Rhonda Veroeven was named a finalist for the esteemed 2024 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

MCPASD earned 2 “Sustainable Middleton” awards from the City of Middleton, recognizing both Kromrey Middle School and the entire District.

grow, learn, thrive.

MCPASD 4K’s Promise to Your Child!

Embark on an exciting journey with us at the heart of early education—the MCPASD 4K program, where your child’s learning adventures blossom from the very start!

We’ve thoughtfully crafted our curriculum to celebrate and nurture every aspect of your child’s growth. Imagine a place where their day is filled with laughter and discovery, balancing social, emotional, and intellectual development through the joy of play-based learning. That place exists right here in our MCPASD Early Learning Center and extends through our partnerships across nine community locations, ensuring that you have access to exceptional early education, right in your neighborhood.

But what truly sets us apart? Not only do we offer a vibrant and enriching start to your child’s educational journey, but we also provide the convenience you need, with many sites offering daycare services before and after our 4K program.

Explore the MCPASD 4K program today. Together we can lay the foundation for your child’s successful future!

Learn more about the program and how to register by scanning the QR code.

MCPASD

Welcomes

Katie Kavanaugh as the New Principal for 4K / Early Childhood Education

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Principal Kavanaugh, who will be joining our District as the new principal for 4K and Early Childhood at the start of the 2024–2025 school year.

Ms. Kavanaugh has over thirteen years of experience in education, having served three years as a school psychologist and ten years in administrative roles. She also holds licenses in Wisconsin for both Director of Special Education / Pupil Services and Principal roles.

Please join us in welcoming Principal Kavanaugh!

Class of

145th Commencement

CLASS MOTTO

Dimidium Facti Qui Coepit Habet

“He who has begun, has the work half done”. -Horace

SCAN the QR code to view all graduation photos.

TRAILBLAZING GRADUATES

Middleton High School Honors the Inaugural Cohorts from the Dual Credit Teaching Program

As the 2023–2024 academic year came to a close, Middleton High School marked a noteworthy achievement: the graduation of the first two cohorts of seniors who had completed dual credit teaching courses in partnership with Madison College. The courses, Education in a Pluralistic Society and Introduction to Teaching, provide a foundation for nurturing future educators. We wish these students good luck in their future endeavors.

Education in a Pluralistic Society:

Abigail Wilson, UW–Whitewater, Elementary and Special Education

Karter Erlandson, UW–Whitewater

Julia Knoke, Madison College then transfer to UW–Madison, Elementary Education

Jadyn Klauser, Gap Year

Rory Rhodes, University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, Elementary Education

Claire Ready, UW–Milwaukee, Criminal Justice

Evelyn Washburn, Madison College then transfer to UW–Madison, Education / Educational Policy

Anna Reinke, UW–Green Bay, Sociology

May Kyaw, Madison College then transfer into either UW–Stout, UW–Madison, or UW–Whitewater; Business and Elementary Education

Introduction to Teaching:

Scarlett Smith, UW–Madison, Elementary Education

Grace Roepsch, University of Iowa, Special Education

Logan Falcon, Lawrence University, Music / Music Education

Pierce Falcon, Lawrence University, Political Science / Pre-Law / Philosophy

Alexa Kalscheur, Viterbo University, Elementary Education

Class President’s Welcoming Remarks: Ria Karthik

Student Speaker: Evelyn Washburn

Student Speaker: Shelley Yang

Introducing Shelley Yang:

The Creative Mind Behind Our Magazine’s Cover Art

We are excited to turn the spotlight on Shelly Yang, an extraordinary artist whose creative work not only graces our magazine’s cover but also embodies the spirit of imagination and artistic expression.

Discover more about Shelley Yang, a student at Middleton High School, through our engaging Q&A.

Q1:

Could you share a bit about your background and your journey into the world of art?

I have always loved drawing and art as a child, but I really discovered my passion in second grade when I began drawing Pokémon to give to my classmates and teachers. Later, I got into Japanese animations and admired the art styles, so I attempted to recreate them. In eighth grade, I encountered the potter’s wheel and the art of ceramics. This opportunity opened my eyes to a whole new world of 3D artwork beyond drawing and painting. During the pandemic, I spent a lot of time creating artwork and developing my skills significantly. Every day, I was either creating art or looking for inspiration for what to design later or tomorrow. I now practice various art styles, from illustration to 3D modeling (e.g., Blender) to ceramics!

Q2:

What serves as the inspiration for your art?

Nature and identity frequently serve as sources of inspiration for my art. I get inspiration to create from a story or perspective I want to showcase, whether the beautiful perspective of nature or the story of growing up. I also seek references and inspiration from Pinterest and Instagram. I think a big part of being able to create something is being able to collect inspiration and effectively collaborate with different references together. My art teachers and instructors have also played a vital role in shaping my art, often guiding me to explore new ideas and mediums in order to better my work.

Q3:

Do you have a favorite piece of art that you’ve created? If so, what makes it special to you?

My favorite piece of art I have created is probably Best Wishes, a 9-x-11-inch alcohol marker illustration depicting a clown blowing out stars. I initially crafted this piece for my AP art portfolio at the beginning of my junior year. Best Wishes holds a special place in my heart, as it reflects my journey of growth and self-discovery. Through this artwork, I aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia and resilience. The clown symbolizes my younger self, with her whimsical yet innocent dreams and aspirations. Each star represents her wishes and blessings for my present teenage self, who navigates through uncertainties and challenges while striving to do her best.

Shelley Yang won the state level competition for the 2024 National Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Contest. Did You Know?

Beyond Academics: How Clark Street Community School Cultivates

Passion and

Belonging

An unexpected shift in perspective has transformed Alena Holland, a junior at Clark Street Community School, from a student on the brink of dropping out to an aspiring meteorologist with a bright academic future. At the beginning of high school, Alena could not have imagined finding joy in the educational journey ahead of her. At Clark Street Community School, she discovered a nurturing environment where her love for science was not only recognized but also encouraged.

Alena credits much of this transformation to her relationship with Heather Messer, a trusted advisor and science teacher whose impact on students reaches far beyond conventional teaching. “Heather helped me change my thinking. I’ve always loved science, and now I want to go to college for meteorology,” Holland shared. In Heather Messer, students find more than an educator—they find a mentor, a guide, and a tireless cheerleader. Heather’s firm belief in Alena’s potential sparked in her a curiosity that expanded well outside the confines of school walls and into personal growth.

Another significant influence on Alena’s high school experience has been the arrival of Nimi Phillips, a firstyear paraprofessional who has quickly made her mark on the lives of students like Alena. Phillips founded a music club, providing an alternative creative outlet that harmonizes with the school’s academic offerings. Through this club, Nimi has extended her reach beyond traditional teaching methods, supporting students’ self-expression and emphasizing the importance of community and belonging. Her passionate guidance has been instrumental in solidifying student connections and fostering a supportive environment within Clark Street Community School. For Alena, the music club has became a sanctuary where she has found her voice and built her confidence, not just musically, but in all aspects of her school life.

It’s not just about learning facts and theories; it’s about igniting passions, encouraging personal growth, and building resilience in young minds.

Heather Messer and Nimi Phillips exemplify how Clark Street is much more than an academic institution. It is a nurturing ground for students. The staff at Clark Street understand that education is not just about learning facts and theories; it’s about igniting passions, encouraging personal growth, and building resilience in young minds. As Alena states, “At Clark Street, you are treated as human, not just as a grade.”

Students participate in a hands-on learning experience to comprehend geometric shapes during the “Math

Moves” seminar.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Where are they now? Q&A with Four Successful Middleton High School Alumni

Shelby Bacus – 2014

What did you do after graduation?

I studied Marine and Coastal Science at the University of California–Davis.

What are you currently doing? I just finished my PhD in Marine Biology from the University of Alaska–Fairbanks. I’m about to start a job as a marine-science professor and scuba diving instructor aboard a college sailing program called SeaMester.

What did you appreciate about MCPASD? I really appreciate the amount of classes that MCPASD offers. I had the flexibility to choose the courses that interested me, which allowed me to explore a variety of subjects. When I started taking classes in college, I already had a sense of what careers interested me and what my major was going to be.

Lucas Kostecki – 2017

What did you do after graduation? I attended Madison College and earned an associate’s degree in web development.

What are you currently doing? I am a full stack web developer at Blend Marketing in Madison, making and maintaining websites for clients in the tourism industry. I also created Lucas K Studios to offer my photography, videography, and aerial capture services.

What did you appreciate about MCPASD?

I appreciate MCPASD because of how encouraging it is to try something new. I had the support I needed to succeed, which allowed me to experience new things. In high school, I experienced being a leader in the MHS Productions video club, tried public speaking and presenting by competing in FBLA, and worked on a team in Ultimate Frisbee.

What did you do after graduation?

I signed to Ford Models, a large modeling agency based out of Chicago, and modeled part-time during high school. After graduation, I moved to Cape Town, South Africa, to model there. It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. When I got back, I had the opportunity to go to New York City to meet with agencies. I was offered a contract by a few but chose to sign to Ford Models in New York.

What are you currently doing? I have worked full-time as a model based out of New York City for the past nine years. I’ve traveled to around fifteen countries and am signed to agencies in LA, Miami, Chicago, and soon London! I’ve had the opportunity to work for some of my favorite companies, like Sephora, Este Lauder, Nike, Vineyard Vines, Fenty, and others!

What did you appreciate about MCPASD? I have profound admiration and gratitude for the Media Club at Middleton High School. My involvement in producing, filming, hosting, and cocreating the 2012 Dane County High School Film Festival, alongside coanchoring our daily announcements, has been immensely impactful. Hosting and conducting interviews on camera has significantly bolstered my confidence and ability to express myself authentically while enjoying the process. These skills continue to serve me well in my daily life.

What did you do after graduation? I attended Madison College for two years. Then I attended Milwaukee Area Technical College and earned an associate’s degree in TV/Video Production. I worked at Hy Cite Enterprises for two years as a video editor and producer, and then I switched careers and worked as a paralegal at a law firm in Middleton from 2021–2023.

What are you currently doing? I am enrolled at UW-Madison to finish my bachelor’s degree in Political Science. I plan to attend law school in 2025.

MCPASD alumni, we want to hear from you! Fill out our quick survey to join our alumni database and get a chance to be featured on our social media!

What did you appreciate about MCPASD? I deeply value MCPASD for its encouragement of exploring and trying new things. With the support I received, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and thrive. From photography class to president of Media Club, these experiences have been instrumental in shaping my personal growth and development.

Allie Redmond – 2012

Fernando Mora – 2012

THE ARTS THE ARTS THE ARTS PRIDE IN MIDDLETON HIGH HIGHMIDDLETONSCHOOL SCHOOL

This school year, our high school’s arts program, spanning music, theatre, and visual arts, achieved impressive accomplishments.

Bo Brothers Win and Perform in Orchestra Competition

Brothers Ethan Bo (grade 11) and Alex Bo (grade 10) won the Middleton Community Orchestra Concerto Competition and performed with the orchestra in February.

MHS Symphony Orchestra Stars at WMEA Conference

The MHS Symphony Orchestra showcased their skills at the Wisconsin Music Educators Association Conference.

MHS Orchestra and Sinfonia Perform at Wisconsin State Capitol

Both the MHS Cardinal Orchestra and Sinfonia performed at the Wisconsin State Capitol in March.

Art Students Donate 50 Portraits to Kids in Cameroon, India

Advanced Art 1 contributed over 50 portraits to the Memory Project, benefiting children in Cameroon and India.

KEEPING THE CARDINAL KEEPING THE CARDINAL KEEPING THE CARDINAL

SPIRIT ALIVE!

An Impressive Year

Historic Achievement for Middleton High School

Athletics: Four State Championships in One Year!

Boys’ Volleyball:

On November 4, 2023, the MHS boys’ volleyball team (33–3) played against Arrowhead High School (38–5) in the finals. The game went into five sets with close scores. This was the first state win for the MHS boys’ volleyball team.

Boys’ Swimming & Diving:

On February 17, 2024, the MHS boys’ swimming & diving team secured back-to-back state championships. They also set a new state record in the 200-meter medley relay, solidifying their status as one of the best in the state.

Boys’ Soccer:

On November 4, 2023, the MHS boys’ soccer team defeated Brookfield East to win their second WIAA Division 1 boys’ state soccer championship.

Girls’ Swimming & Diving:

On November 11, 2023, the MHS girls’ swimming & diving team captured the Division 1 state championship. The Cardinals compiled 212.5 points to win the program’s fourth championship.

SENIOR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR / BOB JOERS AWARD WINNERS

Middleton High School is proud to announce the winners of the prestigious Senior Athlete of the Year / Bob Joers Award for the 2023–2024 academic year. This award recognizes exceptional multisport student athletes who embody dedication, sportsmanship, and academic excellence. To be considered, student athletes must maintain a GPA of 3.4 or above and have no code violations. After careful consideration, the following student athletes have been selected as this year’s winners:

Netra Somasundaram

Sports: Tennis (all four years), Track & Field (sophomore year)

Majoring in Computer Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology

Sports: Cross Country, Swimming & Diving, Track & Field (all four years for all three sports)

Majoring in Engineering at UW–Madison

CONGRATULATIONS

to Netra and Miles for their well-deserved recognition as Senior Athletes of the Year!

ROAR

Let’s Together!

100+ Partnership for Student Success

Kromrey and Glacier Creek Middle Schools

Over the last five years, clubs at Kromrey Middle School and Glacier Creek Middle School have become significant and engaging hubs for students. The two schools formed a partnership, specifically designed to nurture and promote the interests and passions of their students. With help from enthusiastic teachers and students, the schools now offer over 100 different clubs.

Clubs like the Sign Language Club, Plant Club, Dungeons and Dragons, Anime, Green Team, and Fishing Club offer a wide variety of activities. These clubs help students find and make friends with similar interests. Connecting over things they love helps students build strong friendships and makes school more fun.

The great part is that these clubs are not run by just teachers; students have a big say in how they work. Students get to join the clubs they’re interested in and even suggest new club ideas to the school leadership.

At Kromrey and Glacier Creek Middle Schools, over 100 clubs flourish, transforming passions into vibrant communities where students shape their experiences and friendships thrive.

Our many diverse clubs allow students to participate in activities that are important to them. Our clubs inspire teamwork, leadership skills, and cooperation, in addition to building a stronger school community.

— Mary Summerskern, Associate Principal, Glacier Creek Middle School

Every student wants to feel as if they are part of something. By allowing our students to generate club ideas, we give them a voice in what will engage them. Often, many students enjoy the same interests but simply haven’t met yet. We value these opportunities because they connect students with common interests, helping them to be part of something meaningful.

— Eric Engel, Associate Principal, Kromrey Middle School

SPOTLIGHT ON CLUBS SPOTLIGHT ON

Black Student Union and Latino Student Union —

Glacier Creek Middle School

At Glacier Creek Middle School, the Black Student Union and Latino Student Union stand as vibrant beacons of cultural pride and understanding. By fostering a welcoming environment for discussions, events, and education, these unions aim to celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and empower students from all backgrounds to embrace their identities.

Newspaper Club — Kromrey Middle School

The Cougar Den Press, the Newspaper Club at Kromrey Middle School, is a recent addition to the school’s extracurricular lineup. It has quickly made its mark by publishing two editions so far. Eager to inform and engage their fellow students, club members dedicate their talents to reporting on school events, conducting interviews, and providing insightful editorials.

Glacier Creek Middle School

Mascot: Brrrta, the Saber Cat

Kromrey Middle School

Mascot: Cody, the Cougar

LITERACY IN OUR ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Building the Framework for Learning and Fun

MCPASD Adopts New Literacy Curriculum for the 2024–2025 School Year

The power of words is immeasurable. We believe in empowering our students to share their voices, discover new ideas, and connect with their community. This all begins with a strong foundation in literacy.

Throughout the 2023–2024 school year, the Literacy/Biliteracy Committee has worked diligently with our Teaching and Learning team to provide the highestquality curricular materials for our students in kindergarten through eighth grade. This team has carefully reviewed research, analyzed data, and thoroughly evaluated curricular materials for adoption.

The MCPASD Board of Education has placed a strong emphasis on literacy for the school year, citing a focus on reading achievements in the 2023–2024 Strategy Map. The committee’s work also aligns with the new requirements outlined in Wisconsin legislation, Act 20, which includes required phonemic and letter-sound knowledge for 4K students. Act 20 also includes mandatory assessments regarding phonemic awareness, alphabet knowledge, letter-sound knowledge, and oral vocabulary for students in kindergarten through third grade.

On May 1, 2024, after strategic construction and revisions, the Literacy/Biliteracy Committee approved the Savvas myView (K–5) and Savvas myPerspectives (6–8) as our new District core curriculum for literacy and biliteracy. The new curriculum will be implemented at the beginning of the 2024–2025 school year. Professional development opportunities will be provided to educators to ensure successful implementation. The committee will closely monitor

The power of words is immeasurable. We believe in empowering our students to share their voices, discover new ideas, and connect with their community. This all begins with a strong foundation in literacy.

the practices and results of the new curriculum.

It is important to recognize that the success of educational goals and milestones is not solely rooted in the curriculum but also in how it is adopted in the classroom. While the Literacy/ Biliteracy Committee has focused on structuring robust curricular frameworks, the importance of integrating fun and engaging learning experiences cannot be overstated.

A shining example of this approach is the Reading Buddies program at Sunset Ridge Elementary School. Here, the joy of learning is visibly intertwined with the educational process. This program not only supports the District’s literacy goals but also highlights how engaging lessons can significantly enhance achievement.

Reading Buddies at Sunset Ridge

First-grade teacher Lynn Brosious and third-grade teacher Molly Schelitzche work together as part of the program, pairing first-graders and third-graders for community reading sessions. The goal is to foster a love for reading, encourage discussions about books, and promote overall literacy and social development among students. Students improve their reading skills through engaging activities and form lasting friendships with their buddies.

DISTRICT FINANCE

Jerrud Rossing and Erin Wheeler: The Financial Pillars of Our School District

Meet Jerrud Rossing, our Assistant Superintendent of Operations, and Erin Wheeler, our Director of Finance. This team works tirelessly to safeguard our District’s financial health. Jerrud brings a wealth of operational knowledge, helping to keep our financial planning in line with the District’s objectives. His insights ensure that we use our funds effectively to support long-term growth. Erin focuses on financial responsibility and day-to-day financial tasks. She is in charge of building the District’s annual budget, managing precise financial reports, and making sure the District’s financial practices are fully compliant with regulations. Her strict oversight of our financial systems guarantees that we maintain the highest level of financial transparency and integrity.

Learning about Our District Budget

With 1,157 staff in our District, Jerrud and Erin are strategically planning the budget for our next fiscal year. Approximately 80% of it is dedicated to wages and benefits. This vital investment empowers our schools’ backbone—our educators—to provide the lessons and opportunities our students deserve, despite budget constraints.

School funding can be a complex topic, often because what we hear from media headlines doesn’t always match what districts are dealing with regarding their budgets each year.

Scan the QR code to watch a short video that explains how school funding works.

80% of our District budget is spent on wages and benefits.

The state of Wisconsin defines 92% of MCPASD’s revenue budget.

ENR OLLM EN T for the 2024–2025 school year is

now open!

June 10, 2024 – August 19, 2024 Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

reg@mcpasd.k12.wi.us 608-829-9031

Scan the QR code to visit our registration website for more information.

Discover

64 Over 64 languages are spoken by our students throughout the District.

200 + 200 clubs and student organizations

49 49 dual credit courses are available at the high school level

60 % master’s or doctorate degree.

Board of Education

The MCPASD Board of Education is made up of nine members, each representing a speciﬁc geographic area within the District. Board members serve three-year terms, or until their successors are duly elected and qualiﬁed Members of the community can email all Board members simultaneously at board@mcpasd.k12.wi.us.

The Board meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7 p.m. at 7106 South Avenue. Exceptions include holidays, breaks, and special meetings. All meetings are open to the public. If the location or time of the meeting is changed, the details will be listed on the Board Meeting posting and the District website.