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.

Maxwell Street Days Happening July 17-20

Hot Deals During the Hot Days – Maxwell Street Days Summer Sidewalk Sale returns with the biggest and best shopping event of the year! 50 years of great bargains on clothing, jewelry, gifts, artwork, sporting goods, books and more, plus fabulous food from State Street and Capitol Square shops and restaurants.

“We always enjoy connecting with the community as we showcase our unique offerings at reduced prices for this outdoor annual event. It’s also a great way for us to highlight our historical downtown shopping district.” shared Amy Moore, owner of Little Luxuries.

The community is invited to enjoy deep discounts, expanded outdoor café dining experiences, live music, special activities and much more on State Street. State Street will be closed to all bike and bus traffic. This community event is hosted by the GSSBA.

2025 Event Information

Thursday, July 17, 9am-6pm
Friday, July 18, 9am-6pm
Saturday, July 19, 9am-6pm
Sunday, July 20, 10am-5pm

Entertainment

Friday, July 18, 4-6pm
Lisa Link Peace Park, 452 State Street
Angela Puerta Trio

Sunday, July 20, 12-2pm
Lisa Link Peace Park, 452 State Street
FREE face painting by Funny Faces

2025 Maxwell Street Days Participating Businesses

As of 6/26/25

Anthology – 230 State St. Stop 1
Art Gecko – 510 State St.
August – 414 State St.
Azara Hookah – 429 State St.
B-Side Records – 514 State St.
The Botanist Social – 206 State St.
Cask & Ale – 212 State St.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream – 468 State St.
Double Tap – 347 State St.
Fair Trade Coffee House – 418 State St.
Fontana Sports – 216 N. Henry St.
Four Star Vido – 459 W. Gilman St.
Freedom Skate Shop – 512 State St.
Goodman’s Jewelers – 220 State St. (In store Specials)
The High Crowd Cafe – 115 State St.
Himalchuli – 318 State St.
Ian’s Pizza on State – 100 State St.
Insignia – 639 State St.
Izakaya Kuroyama – 419 State St.
Jazzman and Duet by Jazzman – 307-309 State St.
Jewelers on State Street – 550 State St.
Kilwins Madison – 208 State St.
Knuckleheads Tobacco & Vapes – 520 State St.
Little Luxuries – 230 State St. Stop 2
Little Sweet – 313 State St.
Luchador Tequila & Taco Bar – 558 State St.
Mackesey’s Irish Pub – 317 State St.
Madison Modern Market – 310 State St.
Metric Forrest Studio – 330 State St.
Michelangelo’s Coffee House – 114 State St.
Mochi – 631 State St.
Okashi – 542 State St.
Overture Center for the Arts – 201 State St.
The Park Hotel and The Post Restaurant – 22 S. Carroll St. (15% off sleeping rooms or dining in The Post)
Parthenon Gyros – 316 State St.
Paul’s Club – 204 State St.
Pricked Piercing – 521 State St.
Princess of India Imports – 306 State St.
Puffin Pass – 511 State St.
Ragstock – 329 State St.
Rethreads Madison – 410 State St.
Roxxy – 327 W. Gorham St.
SEE Eyewear – 437 State St.
Singlestitch Madison – 124 State St.
The Soap Opera – 319 State St.
Studs – 629 State St.
The Stuffed Olive
Sunshine Daydream – 619 State St.
Tropic Jewel – 449 State St.
Turtle Island – 444 State St.
University Book Store – 711 State St.
Wake N’ Bakery – 517 State St.
Wisconsin Design Team – 417 State St.
Zodica Perfumery – 133 W. Johnson St.

About Maxwell Street Days

For 50 years, Maxwell Street Days has provided bargains, culinary delights and music for more than 30,000 annual attendees. This annual Summer Sidewalk Sale on State Street in downtown Madison, Wis., takes place the 3rd weekend in July. Why is there a “Maxwell Street Days” on State Street? Maxwell Street in Chicago, Ill., was home to a famed outdoor market and “urban bazaar” from 1871 to 1994. In 1975, Martin’s, a Madison, Wis., clothing store and tailor shop, founded an outdoor sidewalk sale to showcase the State Street shopping district, starting Madison’s very own “Maxwell Street Days” tradition.

Greater State Street Business Association

Greater State Street Business Association (GSSBA) membership is open to all businesses and property owners located on State Street, the Capitol Square, and one block off in either of these two areas. Businesses must be inline, storefront businesses to be GSSBA members and to participate in Maxwell Street Days.

Maxwell Street Days Application

You must be a member of the Greater State Street Business Association to participate. Membership is open to all businesses and property owners located on State Street, the Capitol Square and blocks that have frontage on these areas. See more details on the application.

Register Your Downtown Business Here

Maxwell Street Days Sponsor

EQT By Design Seeking Input on Economic Development Plan survey

Take the survey here: http://bit.ly/CityEDD

We invite you to participate in an important community initiative focused on transforming our approach to economic development. This project aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable economic future by putting community members’ needs at the forefront.

Your input will help us:

• Shape community-centered planning with measurable outcomes
• Create a future vision for our economic landscape
• Improve city programs and services
• Develop practical strategies for implementation

Your feedback will contribute to a comprehensive 5-year Economic Development Work Plan that addresses four key areas: 

• Improving Economic Mobility and Building Generational Wealth
• Empowering Madison’s Workforce 
• Supporting Local Capital Circulation and Small Businesses
• Investing in Existing and Emerging Industries to Create Good Jobs

Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more inclusive economic future for our community. Questions? Please email Engagement@eqtbydesign.com

MMSD Welcomes Tyson Jackson as New Director of Family, Youth and Community Engagement

MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has named Tyson Jackson as its new Director of Family, Youth and Community Engagement (FYCE). Jackson brings more than a decade of experience in equity-driven leadership, youth mentorship and community empowerment to this critical role.

Throughout his career, Jackson has demonstrated a commitment to cultivating environments where students and families are seen, heard and valued. His leadership style, rooted in cultural responsiveness, collaboration and authentic engagement, aligns closely with MMSD’s values and strategic vision.

“Tyson Jackson is exactly the leader we need to deepen our connection with families, youth and community partners,” said Dr. TJ McCray, MMSD’s deputy superintendent. “He understands that real progress happens when we engage authentically with those most impacted by our work. His passion for equity, and his ability to lead with both head and heart, will be instrumental in helping every student thrive.”

As Director of FYCE, Jackson will lead MMSD’s efforts to engage families as essential partners in student success, with a particular focus on historically marginalized communities. His responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the implementation of MMSD’s family engagement strategy.
• Leading programs like the Family Leadership Academies and “Read Your Heart Out.”
• Supporting youth leadership development and community-based equity initiatives.
• Strengthening district-wide coordination and capacity around family engagement practices.

“Tyson brings both vision and action,” Dr. McCray added . “He has a proven track record of listening deeply, building trust and inspiring confidence in those around him. We’re excited to see how his leadership will help us advance our commitment to fairness and inclusive excellence.”

Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Carthage College. Outside of his professional work, he leads a local youth sports league and contributes to several community advisory boards. His combination of grassroots experience and strategic leadership makes him a powerful advocate for students and families.

To learn more about FYCE and its programs, please visit the Department’s page 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.

Kyle George joins Lake Ridge Bank as Vice President and Relationship Manager

July 7, 2025 (MADISON, Wis.) – Kyle George has joined the Lake Ridge Bank Wealth Management team as a Vice President and Relationship Manager. He will serve clients throughout South Central Wisconsin, working out of the bank’s Bridge Road location in Monona and Atwood Avenue location in Madison.

Kyle has been in banking for 14 years, advancing through various roles from personal banking to lending to financial planning and wealth management. With degrees in economics and philosophy from Augustana College, Kyle went on to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and is currently working on the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) credential. For the last decade, his primary focus has been on businesses, nonprofits, endowments, and high-net-worth individuals with complex estate planning needs.

“I really enjoy looking at a complicated financial puzzle and to provide clarity and direction in the context of [their] goals and aspirations,” he explains. “It’s such an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to craft a plan that gives a sense of stability while also moving families, organizations, and causes toward fulfilling their ultimate goals.”

Kyle has also expressed an affinity for civic and community engagement, with a strong commitment to support local economic development and wellbeing for his neighbors. He has served as an election official for the City of Madison for the last five years, as well as serving on the Boards of the Clean Lakes Alliance, the REAP Food Group, and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.

“I have seen a lot of examples of Lake Ridge Bank reinvesting in our community, and it just felt like a natural fit for my own priorities and values,” he says. “It’s important to me to find ways to nourish my local neighborhood culturally and financially.”

For more information about how Lake Ridge Bank can help you organize and advise your complex financial planning needs, contact Kyle George at KGeorge@lakeridge.bank or call (608) 826-3530.

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Lake Ridge Bank’s mission is to “build prosperous communities, one relationship at a time.” For more than 100 years, this has meant getting to know each of our clients to offer personalized services to meet their specific financial goals. Lake Ridge Bank offers a full line of financial products and services. We focus on offering products and services to make your banking easy. Our business banking and mortgage lenders are trusted leaders in their field with the expertise to provide the right loan at the best rate possible for our clients. As a community bank, we are dedicated to reinvesting in, and making our communities great places to live, work and raise a family. Visit lakeridge.bank to learn more about how we can help you.

Investment Products: Are Not FDIC Insured | Are Not Bank Guaranteed | May Lose Value

Lake Ridge Bank. Go Far. Go Together!

For additional information, please contact Mark Schellpfeffer at mschellpfeffer@lakeridge.bank.