Photo by Richard Hurd
MMSD Names Permanent Leader for Lori Mann Carey Elementary School
MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has selected Percy Brown, Jr., as the permanent principal of Lori Mann Carey Elementary School (formerly known as Southside Elementary School), effective July 9.
Brown brings more than two decades of experience as a transformational leader, advocate and educator in Wisconsin and across the country. A nationally recognized speaker and consultant, he has led professional learning, developed equity-centered curriculum and empowered students, families and staff to build inclusive and thriving school communities.
“I look forward to partnering with our dedicated staff, supportive families and outstanding students to build on the school’s proud traditions while pursuing academic excellence and the holistic development of each child,” Brown said. “Together, we will ensure that every student at Lori Mann Carey feels seen, supported and challenged to reach their fullest potential.”
Brown currently serves as CEO of North Star Consulting Services, Inc., and has previously held leadership roles in both K–12 and higher education, including as Director of Equity and Student Achievement at the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District. He is the author of “Strength Through Generations: A Black American Family’s Fight for Equality Through Faith, Love, and Education,” which chronicles his family’s journey from the Jim Crow South to Madison’s South Side, and calls readers to continue the work of educational justice.
The selection marks the culmination of a comprehensive, community-informed hiring process, led by MMSD’s Human Resources Department and School-Based Leadership Team, that included stakeholder surveys and the convening of a diverse panel of staff, families and community members to evaluate candidates.
“Listening to and incorporating stakeholder feedback was a critical part of this process,” said Dr. Anu Ebbe, associate superintendent of the La Follette attendance area. “The voices of families, staff and community members helped us identify the leader who could carry forward the school’s mission with clarity and care, and we’re confident Mr. Brown is that leader.”
The announcement is an important step forward for the school and coincides with its new name, which honors the late educator and activist who spent a lifetime working to improve outcomes for students across the city, becoming official.
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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.