Photo by Richard Hurd
MMSD Highlights Homelessness Awareness Month with Community Support Efforts
MADISON, Wis.—Throughout November, the Madison Metropolitan School District’s (MMSD) Transition Education Program (TEP) is recognizing Homelessness Awareness Month by inviting the community to support students and families experiencing housing instability.
For the 2024–25 school year, as many as 1,304 MMSD students and 141 non-school-aged children met the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act’s definition of “homeless”: those lacking a “fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.” That total represents approximately 5% of the district’s total enrollment, underscoring the scope of the challenge within the Madison community.
“Each of our students deserves stability, belonging and a sense of safety,” said Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard. “Homelessness affects every aspect of a child’s well-being and education, and it’s our shared responsibility as a community to ensure every student has what they need to learn and thrive.”
As it does every year throughout November and December, MMSD is accepting donations of clothing and personal care items to help meet the needs of students and families. Requested items include hair and skin care products, laundry soap, body wash, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, toothpaste and toothbrushes, socks (any size), hair accessories, coats, boots, waterproof gloves and snow pants. Donations may be made at the Doyle Administration Building (545 W. Dayton St.) or at individual schools across Madison.
Later this month, MMSD also plans to create a visual representation of the students and families who have experienced homelessness in the past year. The display will be located outside the Doyle building, and will serve as a reminder that housing instability affects children and families throughout our community.
“Homelessness can look different for every family, but what remains constant is the need for care and connection,” said Jani Koester, TEP resource teacher. “The display will represent real students, each with their own story, resilience and hope. Our goal is to make sure every one of them feels seen, supported and valued.”
TEP supports students and families experiencing homelessness throughout the school year. Community members interested in contributing to its ongoing donation center or learning more are encouraged to contact tep@madison.k12.wi.us.
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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.