On a time crunch? Check out this page for all your 'need to know' information this month. We invite you to read further when you are able to check out all of the awesome things happening within our District!
Key Dates
2025 Benefits Open Enrollment Window
October 21, 2024 - November 12, 2024
Learn more here.
Join The Sustainability Committee
Complete the interest form by Monday, October 28, 2024, at 5:00 p m
Learn more here.
Save The Date
Years of Service Recognition Event
Thursday, April 17, 2025
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Pope Farm Elementary School | 816 Schewe Rd, Middleton, WI 53562
Retirement Dinner
Thursday, May 15, 2025
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Holiday Inn & Suites | 1109 Fourier Drive, Madison, WI 53717
Further information has been sent to staff who meet these significant milestones
Review Your Annual Tax Withholdings
Having the correct amount of taxes withheld from your paycheck is very important. The key to paying the correct amount of tax is to update your W-4 and WT-4 regularly, or at minimum, when you have a major personal life change Some of these major personal life changes that affect your taxes are marriage, divorce, having a child/adoption, buying a home, a change in pay, etc.
Learn more here.
aff Stars
Recognizing Excellence in Education
Carla Barbian
Kromrey Middle School
Join us in sharing a round of applause for Kromrey Middle School Head Cook Carla Barbian! She was nominated for her outstanding ability to connect with students “She really notices each student for their individual strengths and interests We are so lucky to have her at Kromrey,” said one of her peers. Thank you, Carla, for making a positive difference every day!
Kathy Spahn
District Services Center
We are proud to recognize District Registrar Kathy Spahn for her amazing work and dedication! Her peers shared how she is always willing to lend a helping hand and her knowledge is a great asset to the District After over 20 years of service, she now looks forward to her next chapter as a retiree this winter. We wish you all the best Kathy!
Give a shout out
There is a lot of invisible work that goes into Take a few minutes to complete our shout-ou form to give someone you know kudos for the work and passion for our students and staff!
The form will remain open all school year, so to give your team some love all year round!
John Becker Releases A Self Produced Music Album
We are thrilled to celebrate John Becker, Sauk Trail Elementary’s dedicated Music Teacher, on the release of his latest album, "Time Flies " This collection of 16 original songs, composed over several years, beautifully captures John's life experiences with a mellow, yet jazzy flair
The album, recorded in August 2024, highlights John's exceptional talent as he plays multiple instruments and collaborates with local Musician Laurie Lang. John’s heartfelt storytelling and passion for music shine through in every track, reflecting his personal journey over the past two decades. We are so excited for John and proud of his continued contributions to the music community "Time Flies" is available now on Bandcamp!
MCPASD Engages Families About School Safety At Recent Event
On October 15, 2024, our District hosted a successful Safety and Security Information Night, bringing together over 60 attendees interested in learning about the measures we have in place to protect our students and staff Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions, asking important questions about our safety procedures, and demonstrating a strong commitment to keeping our schools secure. Local law enforcement officers were also present to welcome families and offer additional insights. This event marked another important step toward empowering families with the knowledge they need to understand their role in crisis situations, ensuring a safer community for all.
Adaptive Sports League Brings New Athletic Stars To The Field
MCPASD is proud to celebrate the launch of its first-ever Adapted Sports League, giving high school students with disabilities the opportunity to shine as varsity athletes. Led by coaches Kevin Bavery and Jessica McIntosh, this program emphasizes inclusion, teamwork, and the joy of competition. Special thanks to the coaches, as well as Special Education Coordinator Nicole Morehouse, Middleton High School Athletic Director Jamie Sims, and Assistant Athletic Director/Activities Coordinator Brad Crandell, for their dedication to making this program a reality With two games already under their belt, the team is off to a great start!
Keep an eye out for their upcoming games here!
Celebrations
October Celebrations
There are always so many awesome things to celebrate in our District! Here are just a few of the many celebrations we shared togther this month.
National Principals Month
We recognize and honor all of the hard work and dedication our Principals give to our schools! They are leaders and friends to all We were excited to take this month to show them our appreciation!
Wisconsin School Board Week
We deeply appreciate the unwavering dedication of the MCPASD Board of Education. Their leadership and hard work help guide our District toward continuous improvement, academic excellence, and an inclusive environment for all.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
We were proud to highlight the Cardinal Academy program throughout the month! The talented team at the CA building always finds exciting new ways to help students develop their skills and get involved in the community at their vocational training sites
Celebrations
National Custodian Day
Thank you to our Custodial team for putting in the time and effort to make our schools a clean and safe place to learn We appreciate all the ways you go above and beyond to help support our District team
National School Lunch Week
Three cheers for our Food & Nutrition Servi
Thanks to their hard work, our students can forward to a yummy and nutritious meal eve We appreciate all the extra time that you pu make sure our students have what they nee
World Teacher Day
We are so grateful for our incredible teachers! Thank you for inspiring our students every day. Your patience, creativity, and dedication are seen and are deeply appreciated!
Celebrations
National Instructional Coaches Day
We are proud to share our gratitude to the Instructional Coaches team for all that they do to make a positive difference in the lives of both our students and staff! Thank you for all of your hard work!
Mathew Border Accepts New Role As Technology Services Operations Coordinator
We are excited to announce Matt Border as the new Technology Services Operations Coordinator! Since joining the Technology Services Team as a Technician in 2020, Matt has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills and technical expertise We congratulate Matt on this well-deserved role and look forward to his continued contributions to our District.
Welcome To The Makers Sp
Join us in sharing a warm welcome to Jenn High School Makerspace
A few of the materials and technology availa
General art supplies (drawing materials, Modeling materials (polymer clay, wood cardboard)
Fiber arts (fabric, sewing machines, croc stitch)
Technology (design software, 3D printin
Engineering (circuitry, robotics, Kinex/Le
Ideation/Planning workshop
We are excited to see the positive changes explore the exciting projects created in this
Reminders
Join The MCPASD Sustainability Committee
The District is seeking three staff members (educators and support staff) to serve on the new Sustainability Committee. If you're interested in participating, please complete the interest form by Monday, October 28, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Selected staff members will be notified by October 31, 2024, with the first meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 2024.
Meetings for the 2024-2025 school year will take place from 6:00 p m to 7:30 p m on the following dates:
November 7, 2024
December 5, 2024
February 6, 2025
March 13, 2025
April 10, 2025
May 8, 2025
MCPASD Board Of Education Recaps
There are so many exciting things happening in our District, and we want to make sure our staff and community feel connected and informed. Stay up to date on decisions, and important information regardi by reviewing the MCPASD Board of Educatio These comprehensive reviews give you an o topics discussed during board meetings in a digestible format. Recaps are shared directly email and are also available on the archive p
Reminders
Edustaff Excellence Awards
Edustaff would like to collect nominations from all faculty and staff members around the District to determine two substitutes who will receive an Edustaff Excellence Award at the end of each semester. The winners will receive a certificate of recognition and a $50 gift card from Edustaff. Click here to review the nomination form.
To qualify, the Edustaff employee must:
• Exemplify excellence in all they do
• Serve wholeheartedly
• Have worked during the month they are nominated
• Have no pending disciplinary action
Nominations will be collected via an accessible online form and are due by the last day of each semester Winners will be announced in January and May 2025
Sharing Our District Story | MCPASD Communications
Our students and staff are doing amazing things, and we want to share the great news! We encourage you to share fun projects, exciting successes, engaging stories, and more with our MCPASD Communications Team. We look forward to including this content in our staff newsletters, school websites, District social media, and more!
If you have an upcoming event or story, please email: rbailey@mcpasd.k12.wi.us svalladolid@mcpasd.k12.wi.us dkruger@mcpasd.k12.wi.us
Throughout the school year, we will be visiting our schools to help collect content and build our relationships with our staff and students If you see us out and about, say hello!
Reminders
Save The Date | Years Of Service Recognition Event | Retirement Dinner
We want to celebrate you! Be sure to mark these dates on your calendar Further information has been sent to staff who meet these significant milestones.
Years of Service Recognition Event
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Pope Farm Elementary School | 816 Schewe Rd, Middleton, WI 53562
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Retirement Dinner
Thursday, May 15, 2025
Holiday Inn & Suites | 1109 Fourier Drive, Madison, WI 53717
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
MCPASD Education Foundation Fall 2024
Inspiration
Grants |
Closes October 31,
2024
All teachers and staff in the District are encouraged to submit requests. Amounts range from $250 to $2,500 and can cover the full cost of a project or partial costs.
The application closes on October 31, 2024.
View the application here
Complete this request form and send it to your principal or administrator for their recommendation.
Complete the Google Form, or E-mail your request and recommendation to:
Kathryn McLeod at kathryn.mcleod39@gmail.com
Amber Kiggens-Leifheit at akiggens-leifheit@mcpasd.k12.wi.us.
Award announcements and funding will be debuted in December 2024.
Financial Wellness Challenge Starts in November
November hosts our thirty-day financial challenge. This challenge focuses on a balance of no spending and knowing what you're spending. Knowing where you spend your money will help you save and be financially well. Thinking about where our money goes and knowing where we can cut back helps us move in the direction we want. To sign up for this challenge (and more throughout the year), click here.
Healthy Minds App
Check out this great app from UW’s Healthy Minds team. With a combination of podcast-style lessons and both seated and active meditations, you’ll learn what science says about the brain while developing skills to tap into these learnings for a healthier, happier you
Save The Date
MCPASD Employee Amazing Race is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025
Awesome Apple Recipes (From REALiving)
Learn more here.
Bollywood Dancing for Beginners | Four Sessions | Starts in November
We’ve added a “Bollywood Dancing for Beginners” fitness class, which will run for four sessions on Wednesdays at Middleton High School, every other week, from 4:15 - 5 p m We’ll determine future classes based on interest and participation Click here for more information and to sign up
Discounted Organic Food Delivered to Your Building
Brewer’s Organic has many organic food options (some local, especially during the Wisconsin growing season). They are extending an offer of 10% off if three or more people from your building order each week. If you’re interested, please complete this short form so we can connect you with others in your building who are interested in participating. View the flyer to learn more.
Protein Bowls Added To Delivered Staff Lunch Options
Three protein bowls have been added to the staff lunch menu.
After creating your account on MyPaymentsPlus, you can place your order through the google order form and your lunch will be delivered to your building. Directions and links with guides can be found below.
Staff Lunch Ordering Information - FAQs
How to create a My Payments Plus account - step-by-step STAFF guide
Staff Lunch Menu
My Payments Plus (How your order will be paid for)
Place your order using the Staff Lunch Order Form (No orders on Professional Development days. Orders must be made by 8:15 a.m. for same-day delivery. Pre-ordering is available.)
If you have any questions, please contact agundeck@mcpasd.k12.wi.us.
Employee Benefits
Benefits Open Enrollment Window | October 21 - November 12, 2024
Open Enrollment is your once-a-year opportunity to make changes to your benefit elections without a qualifying life event. Due to requirements under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), annually each benefit-eligible employee must be offered the opportunity to enroll or make changes.
Who is a benefit-eligible employee?
Employees working at least 30 hours per week or have been determined to be eligible through the ACA look-back period.
Plans that are available during open enrollment:
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts
LegalShield IDShield
Pet Insurance
During open enrollment, you may:
Enroll if you previously waived coverage
Drop coverage
Add or remove dependents
Change plans (this is the only time of the year a plan change is allowed.)
Want more information about the benefits that MCPASD offers?
2025 Employee Benefits Guide
MCPASD Employee Benefits: Open Enrollment
Need instructions on how to complete the open enrollment process?
2025 Open Enrollment Guide (English) | 2025 Guía para Inscripción Abierta en línea (Español)
Video Guide (English) or Vídeo guía (español)
Pet insurance enrollment has a separate process
PetPartners Enrollment Guide
FSA enrollment has a separate process
FSA Enrollment Instructions
If you do not make any changes during open enrollment, your current plans (except FSA) will automatically be renewed for the coming year. FSA participants must re-enroll annually. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact benefitsmailbox@mcpasd.k12.wi.us.
ee Personnel
Payroll Tax Withholdings The Right Form) ane WT-4 (State Tax Form)
rom your paycheck is very important. The key to paying 4 and WT-4 regularly, or at minimum, when you have a jor personal life changes that affect your taxes are ying a home, a change in pay, etc
tatus, follow these steps to view your status: dule
m the ‘Payroll’ menu click ‘W4 Information’
m for federal tax purposes and/or your State of Wisconsin WT-4 for state tax purposes, please see the links below
Please print, complete, and send via interoffice to Payroll at the District Services Center (do not send electronically since this contains your confidential information).
Federal W4 Form
State of WI WT4 Form
ee Personnel
How To View The Estimated Amount Of Your Paychecks After Withholdings Using The Check Estimator In Skyward
Disclaimer: Please note the WRS rate is fixed at 6.9% and cannot be changed.
Touching Base With Teaching and Learning
Student services
Did you know MCPASD has a dedicated Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Team?
Our Universal SEL Coaches are essential in helping schools implement key universal practices that promote student well-being. These practices include Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Responsive Classroom (K-8), Developmental Designs (9-12), Restorative Practices and TraumaSensitive Schools
As leaders, SEL Coaches represent their schools, in District SEL team meetings, and work closely with building and District administration to continually refine and enhance these practices.
Chris Mand Director of Student Services
Each fall, our SEL Coaches guide their school teams through the SEL Universal Practices Fidelity Tool to assess strengths and areas for growth, shaping our action plans.
Thank you to our MCPASD SEL Coaches for your outstanding leadership at both the building and district levels!
MCPASD Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coaches
Melanie Moorehill SEL & Mental Health Coordinator
John Altenhofen West Middleton Elementary
Kari Brezenski Northside Elementary
Kirsten Haag Sauk Trail Elementary
Lindsey Hellenbrand Sunset Ridge Elementary
Taylor Klinzing Elm Lawn Elementary
Joel Phillips Park Elementary
Alexandra Theiler Pope Farm Elementary
Sarah Estrella MHS/ CSCS
Scott Mullee Kromrey
Abbie Hannam Kromrey
Lyndsey Ebben Glacier Creek
Jen Lohr Glacier Creek
Angie Bahl MHS
Genna Shapiro MHS
Heather Messer CSCS
Data and Assessment
We continue to prepare for our launch of 4K-3 Aimsweb+ for the winter assessment window, as required by Act 20 Training for test administration will occur during November Professional Development More information will be forthcoming for staff login information.
Elementary & Secondary Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Andrew Close Data & Assessment Coordinator
Thank you to those of you who are continuing to learn and implement ‘myView Literacy’ and ‘myPerspectives’. October PD was our last PD with the Savvas facilitators. Our PD in November (and beyond) will continue to support our implementation and learning around the new curriculum but will be districtdesigned
The curriculum from Savvas is very robust and has a lot of resources. There is more than you need and have time for. Therefore, teachers should use their professional judgment, in collaboration with their PLC and instructional coach, on which high-leverage practices they want to focus on There isn’t time for everything, especially in our first year of implementation, as things are taking longer to do as we are learning So please give yourself grace.
The public data for the spring Wisconsin State Assessment System (WSAS - Forward Exam, Dynamic Learning Maps, Pre-Act Secure, and State-wide ACT Plus Writing) results are available in the Wisconsin public Wisedash system. We are excited to see the results of our district and the efforts of our staff and students. A presentation on the results will occur at the October 28th Board of Education meeting.
Dr. Jan Chynoweth
Director of Secondary Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Dr. MaryBeth Paulisse Director of Elementary Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
