MMSD Human Resources Team Strengthens Staffing Stability, Recruitment and Talent Development

MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) continues to strengthen its workforce through strategic recruitment, improved staffing stability and targeted talent development, according to a recent update from the district’s Human Resources team. Together, these efforts support consistent learning environments for students and help schools operate more effectively day to day.

So far in the 2025–26 school year, MMSD has filled more than 700 positions across elementary, middle and high schools, including teachers, educational assistants, custodial staff, food service workers and coaches. Having key roles filled allows for uninterrupted instruction, ensures students have access to essential services and reduces disruptions that can affect teaching and learning. These efforts reflect sustained progress in attracting and retaining staff to support students across the district.

“Our Human Resources team is focused on both meeting immediate staffing needs and building a strong, diverse pipeline for the future,” said Jennifer Trendel, MMSD senior executive director of human resources. “Every hire represents an investment in students, schools and long-term operational health across our system.”

In addition to filling vacancies, the district has made steady gains in workforce retention. Over the past several years, MMSD has seen gradual improvement in employee longevity, reversing trends that intensified during and immediately following the pandemic. When staff remain in their roles, schools are better able to maintain strong instructional teams throughout the year.

An area of significant progress has been the expansion of building-based substitute teachers at 10 MMSD schools. Principals report that consistent, on-site substitute coverage has improved both student routines and staff morale by limiting the need to reassign educators from their primary roles.

The district has also seen strong engagement across multiple recruitment channels, with employee referrals emerging as the leading source of successful hires this year. MMSD continues to recruit through colleges and universities, community job fairs and partnerships with local organizations, while also preparing for additional districtwide recruitment events in 2026.

“Recruitment and retention are strongest when people feel supported, valued and connected to the work,” Trendel said. “We are seeing the impact of intentional outreach, internal referrals and grow-your-own strategies that center our current staff and community.”

Long-term workforce development remains a central priority. MMSD’s Grow Your Own to Associate Degree program and Accelerated Licensure in Special Education initiative continue to create pathways for current employees to become licensed educators, while also helping diversify the district’s workforce. Together, these programs support academic achievement, equity and access, and college and career readiness for students.

For a complete listing of the district’s open positions, please visit MMSD’s careers portal.

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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.