Photo by Richard Hurd
MMSD High Schools to Host Transition Nights for Rising Freshmen
MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) will host a series of transition nights in January for current eighth-grade students and their families as they prepare to enter high school in the 2026–27 school year.
Held at each of the district’s four comprehensive high schools, these events offer incoming freshmen and their families an opportunity to learn more about academic programs, extracurricular activities and student supports available at each school. Families will also have the chance to meet teachers and staff, ask questions, connect with other rising freshmen and become familiar with the buildings where students will spend the next four years of their academic journey.
“High school is a pivotal time in a student’s life, and we want families to feel welcomed and supported from the very beginning,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, assistant superintendent of schools and learning. “These nights help students see themselves as part of a school community and understand the many ways they can grow, contribute and succeed.”
Each event will include information on coursework, clubs, athletics and student services, along with opportunities to engage directly with school staff and administrators.
“Transition nights are an important step in helping students and families feel informed, confident and connected as they move into high school,” said Mary Jankovich, executive director of college, career and community readiness. “They provide a space to explore opportunities, build relationships and begin imagining the paths students can take toward graduation and beyond.”
Event details are as follows:
- East High School
Preppin’ to Be a Purgolder Night
6–8 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026
2222 E. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53704 - Vel Phillips Memorial High School
Vel Phillips Memorial Night
6–7:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 12, 2026
201 S. Gammon Rd., Madison, WI 53717 - West High School
Welcome to West High School
7–8:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 12, 2026
30 Ash St., Madison, WI 53726 - Robert M. La Follette High School
Future La Follette Lancer Night
6–8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
702 Pflaum Rd., Madison, WI 53716
Families are encouraged to attend the event for the high school their student will enter next year. Additional information is available on the MMSD website.
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About the Madison Metropolitan School District
The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving more than 25,000 students across 52 schools. The district’s vision is that every school will be a thriving school that prepares every student to graduate ready for college, career and community. With more than 6,000 teachers and staff, MMSD is committed to ensuring the district’s goals and core values are held at the center of its efforts, so students can learn, belong and thrive. For more information, visit mmsd.org.