Photo by Richard Hurd
MMSD Engages Improve Your Tomorrow to Support College-Focused, Historically Underserved High School Students
MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has contracted with Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT), a national educational nonprofit that specializes in supporting young men of color on their journey to and through college, to provide mentoring, academic supports and culturally responsive programming in select MMSD schools for the 2025–26 and 2026–27 school years.
The organization’s mission is to dramatically increase the number of Black male students who graduate from college. The organization’s model is rooted in building long-term, trusting relationships with students, strengthening their connection to school and helping them see themselves as college-bound and career-ready.
“We see this as a direct investment in a demographic of our high school students who have historically been underserved,” said Mary Jankovich, MMSD’s executive director of college, career and community readiness. “IYT’s approach provides the mentorship and support that help students envision themselves as college graduates and leaders in their communities.”
Through its College Academy program, the nonprofit works with students across multiple years to build a foundation for success. Year one emphasizes relationships and belonging; year two focuses on improved attendance and positive behavior; and year three highlights measurable academic growth. This staged approach helps schools and districts track progress over time and ensures that the work leads to sustainable outcomes.
“We know that students thrive when they feel connected, affirmed and supported,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, MMSD’s assistant superintendent of schools and learning. “IYT’s programming is designed to create those conditions while also addressing key drivers of student success, from attendance to academics. It’s a holistic model that aligns with our district’s goals.”
In addition to mentoring and academic support, IYT also provides enrichment opportunities designed to expose students to college campuses, career pathways and leadership development. These experiences help students build confidence, expand their networks and prepare for life after high school.
The district selected IYT after reviewing its proven success in other districts, where participants demonstrated higher levels of engagement, improved graduation rates, and increased enrollment in postsecondary education. MMSD will work closely with IYT to track outcomes and ensure that the program is meeting the needs of Madison students. All services will be provided at no cost to families, and outcomes will be reviewed annually to guide future improvements.
To learn more about the opportunities available to MMSD high school, including its early college academies, 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.