Photo by Richard Hurd
MMSD Targets Growth in College Credit and Career Credential Opportunities by 2026–27
MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is setting its sights on helping more students graduate with real-world credentials and college credit, unveiling a new performance objective that underscores its commitment to college, career and community readiness.
By the 2026–27 school year, MMSD aims to increase the percentage of students who graduate with credits or credentials that carry postsecondary value, whether through college-level coursework, industry-recognized certifications or work-based learning experiences.
“This focus ensures our graduates leave MMSD not only with options and confidence, but with high-value credentials that open doors to real opportunity,” said Cindy Green, MMSD’s assistant superintendent of strategy and innovation. “We want every student to have meaningful experiences that connect their learning to life beyond high school.”
Approximately 64% of MMSD’s Class of 2025 earned college credit through Advanced Placement, dual credit or dual enrollment courses, the district’s highest percentage in five years. Students across MMSD accessed 33 AP courses, 10 dual credit offerings and 273 dual enrollment opportunities through programs such as Early College Academies and Start College Now.
To continue that momentum, MMSD is advancing several key focus areas:
- Advanced Placement Courses: Mapping AP offerings to specific career clusters so students can see clear links between rigorous coursework and future careers.
- Dual Credit Courses: Expanding college-credit classes taught by MMSD teachers, giving students access to college-level learning without leaving their high school campus.
- Dual Enrollment Pathways: Strengthening partnerships with UW–Madison, Madison College and Wisconsin’s technical college system to provide early access to college coursework and career-aligned academies.
- Work-Based Learning: Creating tiered experiences, from introductory work credit to youth apprenticeships, that give students hands-on experience and real credit for their efforts.
- Industry Credentials: Expanding awareness and access to industry certifications in areas such as health care, construction, automotive technology and culinary arts.
“By linking learning to purpose, we are supporting students in preparing for college while also helping them uncover their passions,” said Mary Jankovich, MMSD’s executive director of college, career, and community readiness. “Our forward-looking efforts guarantee that every MMSD graduate can envision a pathway ahead that is both attainable and motivating.”
These initiatives are designed to create a more seamless connection between what students learn in school and the opportunities available to them after graduation. Whether earning a certified nursing assistant license, a college algebra credit or a youth apprenticeship in IT, MMSD students are gaining tangible experiences that translate directly into postsecondary success.
“This work is about building bridges between schools and colleges, students and employers, and classroom learning and the real world,” Green added. “When students can see a clear line between their education and their aspirations, their engagement deepens, and so does their sense of purpose.”
The district is also focused on ensuring these opportunities reach all students equitably. Data analysis and school-based support systems are being used to identify barriers to access (e.g., transportation, course scheduling, awareness, etc.) and to expand participation among underrepresented student groups.
Ultimately, MMSD’s performance objective serves as a reflection of a broader vision for what readiness looks like in today’s world. By prioritizing college credit, credentials and real-world learning, the district is equipping every student not just to graduate, but to take their next step with confidence.
To learn more about the district’s secondary programs and pathways, please visit 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.