Dodger families,

I hope that the Thanksgiving weekend afforded you an opportunity to rest and connect with loved ones. This season, I am particularly thankful for the ongoing diligence of our faculty, staff, students, parents, administrators, mental health workers, and first responders in supporting our community members in times of difficulty. I am also immensely proud of the efforts of all the MPS students, faculty, staff, parents, administration, and Board members for their efforts in bringing about the positive outcomes that were highlighted at the 2021 State of the Schools Address on November 17. 

Please take a moment to review these important updates:

The 2021 State of the Schools Address is now available online.

The PDF and video versions of the presentation are available. Please take a moment to view the recording so that you can benefit from hearing the discussion that accompanies the slide show. The Address includes many topics of public concern, some of which are reflected in the following key takeaways: 

  • Our students have progressed academically during the pandemic. Multiple data points indicate that students have experienced meaningful academic growth despite operational challenges.

  • The district is making progress in closing the opportunity gap. Survey responses and local assessment results indicate that our students are experiencing support and academic growth in an equitable manner. 

  • Third party rankings of MPS are based on historic data and are expected to change in the coming year. Much of their source data appears to be from the 2017-18 Civil Rights Data Collection and the 2019 NJSLA administration. 

  • MHS graduates continue to earn acceptance at some of the most selective colleges and universities in the world. The presentation includes a partial list of schools to which our 2021 seniors were accepted. 

Some COVID-related school procedures are being adjusted based on consultation with health professionals. 

Upon recent consultation with our school nurses and the Madison Health Department, the district has identified the following areas of change within our procedures. 

Regional COVID activity levels and MPS case rates have increased, as expected.

Please note that it is still very important that vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals remain mindful of their actions as isolation and quarantining rules continue to be observed at school. Accordingly, all parents and students should ensure that any indoor gatherings outside of school include some combination of mitigation strategies, including ventilation, filtration, distancing, and/or mask wearing. Further, students who are experiencing any COVID-like symptoms should stay home and contact their school nurse. 

Madison Public Schools needs Substitute Teachers and Teacher Assistants.

If you or someone you know is interested in an opportunity to work with students and become a part of our school community, then please consider the important work of substitute teachers and teachers assistants. Our school district is in dire need of reliable individuals to serve in these critical capacities. If you are able to join our team to support our staff and students as a substitute teacher or teacher assistant, please contact Confidential Secretary Jenifer Biondi at biondij@madisonnjps.org.

Thank you for taking the time to read all of this information. Also, please note that the recent school violence tragedy that occurred earlier this week in Michigan weighs heavily on our hearts and minds. In the next Dodger Update, we will provide updated information regarding our ongoing, comprehensive efforts to ensure safety at all MPS schools. In the meantime, may you have a joy-filled a joy-filled holiday season. 

Upcoming Events:

  • Mon, Dec 13 - Superintendent Coffee, 7pm

  • Tues, Dec 14 - Board of Education Meeting, 7pm

  • Tues, Jan 4 - Board of Education Annual Reorganization Meeting, 7pm