Thanks to Arlene for keeping us informed!
MMSD Board of Education Progress Report – March, 2009
It is a busy time for the School Board as we embark our new governance structure, participate in the strategic planning process, advocate for equitable school funding/budgets and prepare for our budget. Highlights for February are below.
4 Year Old Kindergarten (4K): The district has begun putting together projections for the financial requirements associated with starting a 4K program in the MMSD. 4K is a program that would benefit the MMSD community but there are many aspects of this program that need to be fully evaluated such as facilities, transportation, budget, collaboration financial commitments, and staffing. To show our commitment to continue the evaluation of this program, the Board authorized the Administration to begin community-based planning for the future of a 4-year-old kindergarten in the MMSD. We will be updated on a monthly basis as evaluation and planning progresses.
Dual Language Immersion Programming: There are a number of things happening in the district with respect to dual language immersion programming. The Board approved the renewal of the Charter School contract with Nuestro Mundo, Inc. concerning the operation of the Nuestro Mundo Community School for a five-year term. We are also looking at the expansion of dual language immersion programs in the district. We have hired a Program Support Teacher to collaborate with district, school staff and principal to develop a long range plan for expansion of dual immersion in the district. In the 2009-2010 school year we will begin an immersion program in kindergarten at Leopold. We are also evaluating middle school programs as well.
Superintendent Contract: The Board unanimously approved a one-year extension of Daniel Nerad’s employment contract as Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Nerad has demonstrated his commitment to the district and his leadership skills in many ways. The Board is very happy with the time Dr. Nerad has spent visiting our schools and engaging our community.
Meadowood Community Center: February marked the opening of the new Meadowood Community Center. The center opened in the space previously occupied by Jacobsen Bros. Meats & Deli on the city’s southwest side. It is a collaborative pilot project funded by the City of Madison and the Madison Metropolitan School District. The center will provide programming for community members of all ages and has after school programming for students living in the area.
Legislative Informational Community Session: We are holding a special Board meeting to focus on legislative issues on Wednesday April 1 at 6:00pm at Wright Middle School. At this session we will provide updates on school funding and state budget issues that affect the MMSD. We will discuss and share strategies on how the community can get involved in advocating for our schools. Mark your calendars. We need as many voices as possible in an advocacy role.
Thanks for all you do for our children. Please let us know if you have any questions or comments at comments@madison.k12.wi.us .
Arlene Silveira (516-8981)
