La Follette Students Earn Honors and Support Community Through Career and Technical Student Organizations

MADISON, Wis.—Students at the Madison Metropolitan School District’s (MMSD) Robert M. La Follette High School are celebrating a strong semester of achievement in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), highlighting the growing impact of career and technical education (CTE) programs across the district.

Senior Ethan Powell earned first place in the Automotive Service Technology competition at the school’s first SkillsUSA event of the year. Powell has been active in CTE courses throughout his time at La Follette and plans to continue competing in the months ahead. 

“Ethan has grown tremendously over the past several years,” said Ben Charles, La Follette CTE teacher. “His work ethic, curiosity and commitment to improving his craft stand out. We are proud of the leader he has become and excited to see how far he will go.”

Beyond individual competition, La Follette students also channel their skills and dedication into service and leadership through DECA, the school’s business and marketing CTSO. This October, the chapter celebrated the school’s annual service month with two major community initiatives:

• Color a Smile: With participation from the entire school community, students created more than 1,500 coloring sheets for Color a Smile, a nonprofit that delivers artwork to individuals in hospice care, memory care, military service and anyone in need of a morale boost. Though final results will not be announced until February, La Follette completed more than 1,500 sheets, besting its 1,100 last year, which was second-most statewide.
• Trick-or-Can: In response to increased need and reduced federal food assistance, La Follette DECA collected more than 500 food items to help stock the school’s City Center Pantry. This effort will support students and families directly within the building.

“We could not be more proud of the hard work, generosity and leadership our DECA students show,” Kurtis Nelsen, La Follette marketing and business education teacher and DECA advisor, said. “They compete academically, they give back and they grow into thoughtful, community-minded young adults. Their dedication reflects what it means to be a Lancer.”

Across MMSD, students participate in a variety of CTSOs, including DECA, SkillsUSA, HOSA, FFA, FBLA and others. These organizations provide hands-on learning opportunities that build real-world skills in areas such as business, healthcare, engineering, agriculture and skilled trades.

“CTE and CTSOs give students the chance to explore their interests, gain confidence and prepare for life after high school,” Meg Filkins, MMSD director of pathways and CTE, said. “We are proud of the success at La Follette and across the district, and we are committed to expanding high-quality career pathways for all students.”

La Follette’s recent achievements come as MMSD continues to strengthen its career and technical education offerings through expanded coursework, stronger industry partnerships and increased opportunities for students to earn professional experience and recognition.

For more information about CTE programs and CTSO opportunities across MMSD, visit the district’s website. For questions and partnership opportunities/inquiries, please reach out via Let’s Talk.

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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.

State Report Cards Highlight Continued Growth in MMSD Schools

MADISON, Wis.—Today, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) released its annual report cards for the 2024–25 school year. The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) earned an overall rating of three stars, with a score of 69.8. 

MMSD is, by far, the largest and most diverse district in Dane County, serving more than 25,000 students (16,559 more than the second-largest Dane County district, Sun Prairie Area). Of those students, 46.1% are identified as economically disadvantaged (compared to 9.3% in Waunakee Area Community and 17.2% in Middleton-Cross Plains Area school districts) and 21.4% are English learners (compared to 14.1% in Verona Area and 2.6% in Oregon school districts). For a complete listing of ratings/scores and demographic information for all Dane County districts, please click here.

The majority of MMSD schools met, exceeded, or significantly exceeded expectations. Notably, all four of MMSD’s comprehensive high schools earned ratings of four stars (“Exceeds Expectations”), with East, Robert M. La Follette, Vel Phillips Memorial and West achieving overall scores of 82.0, 72.0, 78.8 and 78.1, respectively.

High School	Enrollment	Overall Score	Rating (Stars/Performance vs. Expectations)
East	1,643	82.0	4 Stars/Exceeds
La Follette	1,541	72.0	4 Stars/Exceeds
Memorial	2,004	78.8	4 Stars/Exceeds
West	2,222	78.1	4 Stars/Exceeds
Belleville	275	70.2	3 Stars/Meets
De Forest	1,137	76.4	4 Stars/Exceeds
Marshall	281	67.2	3 Stars/Meets
McFarland	727	74.8	4 Stars/Exceeds
Middleton	2,303	86.8	5 Stars/Significantly Exceeds
Monona Grove	1,170	79.0	4 Stars/Exceeds
Mount Horeb	745	81.5	4 Stars/Exceeds
Oregon	1,339	85.1	5 Stars/Significantly Exceeds
Stoughton	834	73.0	4 Stars/Exceeds
Sun Prairie East	1,340	76.0	4 Stars/Exceeds
Sun Prairie West	1,325	78.7	4 Stars/Exceeds
Verona Area	1,820	80.3	4 Stars/Exceeds
Waunakee	1,335	80.5	4 Stars/Exceeds
Wisconsin Heights	238	88.6	5 Stars/Significantly Exceeds

“MMSD continues to make meaningful progress in our students’ academic growth,” said Superintendent Joe Gothard. “We are committed to finding ways to strengthen teaching and learning while supporting all of our scholars, so they can be successful at whatever they choose to do, whether it’s college or career.” 

Because DPI updated how scores are calculated this year, districts are asked to treat the overall scores in this year’s report cards as a new baseline, meaning that they should not be compared to previous years. An exception is the overall score for Growth, which measures student progress on statewide tests, and according to DPI, “uses a value-added model that seeks to control for circumstances beyond the influence of educators.” 

In this area, MMSD improved 1.9 percentage points, or 2.9%, scoring the same or better than 91.8% of other Wisconsin districts, showing that, per DPI, “on average students in the district are progressing more quickly than other, similar students.”

MMSD high school students also outpaced their statewide peers in terms of participation in: 

• Advanced Placement courses (30.8% vs. 20.3%)
• Art and design courses (32.8% vs. 27.0%) 
• Dance (1.2% vs. 0.4%) and theater courses (3.3, vs. 1.8%)

MMSD’s overall scores were as follows: 

• Achievement: 61.0
• Growth: 76.5
• Target Group Outcomes: 63.7
• On-Track to Graduation: 73.4 

Across Dane County, two school districts earned five stars, 11 earned four stars, and two (including MMSD) received three stars. Numerical scores ranged from 69.8 to 84.6. 

“We are encouraged by the demonstrated growth that this report shows, particularly as we move further past the pandemic and our scholars progress in fully readjusting to in-classroom learning,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, assistant superintendent of schools and learning. “With a strong educational foundation and support and guidance from our world-class educators, our Madison students will continue to learn, grow and thrive.”

In total, two MMSD schools achieved ratings of “Significantly Exceeds Expectations”; 19 “Exceeds Expectations”; 19 “Meets Expectations”; six “Meets Few Expectations”; and one “Fails to Meet Expectations.” Six schools participated in the Alternate Rating process, five of which scored “Satisfactory” progress, with one scoring “Needs Improvement.”

Report cards are released each fall under state law, as part of Wisconsin’s school accountability system. Schools and districts receive a star rating, from one to five stars, based on their overall score. Ratings are determined across four priority areas identified by the Department of Public Instruction: achievement, growth, target group outcomes, and on-track to graduation. 

All MMSD report cards are available to view on 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.

ADCI and H&LA Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Innovation in Hospitality Development

New alliance combines ADCI’s design leadership with H&LA’s market intelligence to redefine how hospitality destinations are envisioned, evaluated, and realized.

Wisconsin Dells, WI & Cleveland, OH — Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI), a leading architecture and design firm, and Hotel & Leisure Advisors (H&LA), an internationally recognized hospitality consulting firm, are proud to announce a new strategic partnership that brings together two complementary leaders in the hospitality industry.

This partnership follows ADCI’s acquisition of H&LA, aligning two firms with distinct strengths to deliver a more comprehensive suite of services across the hospitality, leisure, and entertainment sectors. H&LA will continue to operate under its existing brand while leveraging ADCI’s creative and operational resources. The firms will share strategic resources and explore new ways to deliver enhanced value through integrated project planning, feasibility, and design services.

Bringing Together Insight and Imagination

“I look forward to continuing to serve the hospitality and leisure industries through this exciting new partnership, which will provide us with new sources of data, creativity, and facility planning to enhance our work product. As I continue in my role as President of H&LA, I’m thrilled to lead our team forward with the added expertise of ADCI, the world leader in architecture and design for indoor waterpark resorts. We are proud to join them in serving our clients in this dynamic industry!”
-David Sangree, MAI, CPA, ISHC, Founder and President of Hotel & Leisure Advisors

“Combining H&LA’s analytical rigor with our design innovation creates something truly powerful. It allows us to approach every project from both an artistic and strategic perspective, ensuring our clients receive not only a beautiful design but a project concept that is both market-supported and financially feasible.”
-Justin Nagel, Vice President of Business Operations, ADCI

Creating End-to-End Solutions for a Dynamic Industry

With decades of experience in hospitality development, both firms have built reputations for delivering results grounded in innovation, client service, and industry expertise. H&LA’s trusted market research and consulting capabilities will be paired with ADCI’s award-winning design and architecture services to offer clients a seamless experience—from concept to completion.

ADCI has designed more indoor waterpark resorts than any other firm globally, making it the recognized leader in this specialized market. Beyond waterpark resorts, the firm also serves a diverse portfolio that includes hotels, commercial, municipal, senior living, and public spaces. This partnership expands its reach in the hospitality sector, combining H&LA’s data-driven insights with ADCI’s design leadership to better support the development of hotels, resorts, and leisure properties.

A Shared Vision for Growth and Innovation

“At ADCI, we’ve always believed that great destinations begin with great insight. Partnering with H&LA allows us to merge creativity with data-driven precision, delivering not just beautiful designs, but hospitality experiences that perform. This collaboration positions us to help our clients dream bigger and build smarter.”
-Jason C. Sorci, Chief Executive Officer, ADCI

While both companies will continue to serve their existing clients independently, this partnership marks the beginning of a collaborative future focused on growth, innovation, and delivering customized solutions in a rapidly evolving industry.

About Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI)

Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. is a full-service architecture and interior design firm based in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. With over four decades of experience, ADCI has designed award-winning projects across the indoor waterpark resort, hospitality, commercial, municipal, and public sectors. Learn more at www.adcidesign.com.

About Hotel & Leisure Advisors (H&LA)

Hotel & Leisure Advisors is a leading hospitality consulting firm specializing in feasibility studies, appraisals, economic impact studies, operational reviews, and advisory services for hotels, resorts, waterparks, and other leisure properties. H&LA is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, and serves clients throughout the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. Learn more at www.hladvisors.com.

MMSD and Wisconsin Athletics Continue Reading Partnership with Role Model Reading Day at Sandburg Elementary School

MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) and Wisconsin Athletics are launching the second year of their literacy-focused partnership, beginning with a Role Model Reading Day at Carl Sandburg Elementary School on Monday, Sept. 22.

With a shared goal of inspiring a love of reading and closing the literacy gap, MMSD and Wisconsin Athletics are teaming up with the 2nd & 7 Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by head football coach Luke Fickell and his former Ohio State teammates Ryan Miller and Mike Vrabel.

Through the collaboration, UW student-athletes from a variety of sports will visit MMSD schools weekly to celebrate the joy of reading. Each session will see Badger student-athletes distributing free books and spending 30–40 minutes reading with MMSD students, helping foster a love of reading and supporting literacy development.

This year’s program will reach MMSD’s eight full-service Community Schools: Hawthorne, John F. Kennedy, Lake View, Aldo Leopold, Mendota, Orchard Ridge, Carl Sandburg and Lori Mann Carey.

“I’m honored and proud to once again partner our 2nd & 7 Role Model Reading Program with the Madison School District,” said Fickell. “Our goal is to inspire children and foster a love of reading, but it’s also a great way for our student-athletes to connect with the community here in Madison. I’ve heard from countless athletes over the years of the joy they get from visiting classrooms and hopefully the impact we’re having can be felt all over the Madison Metropolitan School District as well.”

The partnership aligns with the district’s Mad for Reading initiative and underscores its commitment to literacy as the foundation of student success.

“When young learners see people they admire taking time to read with them, it sends a powerful message about the importance of literacy,” said Cindy Green, MMSD’s assistant superintendent of strategy and innovation. “Just as athletics and other co-curricular activities build belonging and connection for older students, leading to stronger attendance and academic performance, these early experiences help our youngest learners see themselves as part of a community that values their growth.”

The partnership is coordinated through MMSD’s Office of Strategy and Innovation and its Community Schools, ensuring that it supports school improvement plans and strengthens family-school-community connections.

The 2025–26 Role Model Reading Program runs from Sept. 3 through May 10, with student-athletes scheduled to visit participating schools on Mondays. The program is part of Badgers Give Back, UW Athletics’ community engagement platform.

For more information about the district’s approach to literacy, as well as ways for families and community members to support young readers, 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.

MMSD Leads the State in National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists

MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) holds the distinction of having more semifinalists for the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program than any other Wisconsin district.

West High School has 28 semifinalists, the most of any school in the state. Along with East (four semifinalists) and Vel Phillips Memorial (11), MMSD’s high schools are collectively home to 43 semifinalists, determined based on their performance on the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which tested participants in the areas of evidence-based reading, writing, language and mathematics. 

The registration deadline for this year’s PSAT is Thursday, Sept. 24. In addition to eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program, students are encouraged to take the PSAT to get feedback on their college readiness and give themselves an idea of what to expect when they take the SAT as juniors. 

“These results highlight the incredible talent, perseverance and dedication of our students, as well those who support them,” said Superintendent Joe Gothard. “Achievements like this remind us of the potential within every student and reinforce our commitment to providing rigorous, high-quality learning opportunities for them.”

Each year, National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists comprise approximately 16,000 seniors, out of an eligible pool of approximately 1.3 million. Of those 16,000 students, about 15,000 go on to receive the title of National Merit Scholar finalist, 6,390 of whom are selected as Merit Scholarship winners. The combined value of all scholarships issued by the program is over $33 million.

MMSD’s full list of semifinalists is as follows:

Lauren Alibali (West)	Noah Estrella (West)	Mable Miller (Memorial)
August Andersen (West)	Raena Grainger (Memorial)	Enzo Ng (West)
Seth Banks (West)	Silas Grant (West)	Josh Pierotti (Memorial)
Josemaria Barut (East)	Zijun He (West)	Gabriela Retana (West)
Joseph Beal (West)	Isaac Hessman (West)	Brandon Royalty (West)
Theodore Beilfuss (East)	Oliver Hoeksema (East)	Simon Sellwood (Memorial)
Madeleine Bohn (West)	Anya Isaac (Memorial)	Hunter Shadman (West)
Edward Bradbury (West)	Naomi Jovaag (East)	Kayla Shelton (Memorial)
Alex Byrnes (Memorial)	Tavish Kennedy (West)	Ravi Suryan-Beilin (West)
Michelle Cai (Memorial)	Steven Kuemmel (West)	Beatrice Vaughan (West)
Timon Cantley (West)	Thanish Lankella (Memorial)	Rosemary Walsh (West)
Samuel Carlsson (West)	Eleanor Lawler (West)	Clara Warrick (West)
Angelina Chang (West)	Jason Li (Memorial)	Chase Xia (West)
Christabel Engel (West)	Mae Loewen (West)	Nina Zhu (Memorial)
	Benjamin Mayeshiba (West)

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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.