Oak Bank Welcomes Aeron Polodna as Mortgage Loan Specialist

Fitchburg, WI – Oak Bank, a locally owned community bank committed to exceptional client service and community giving, is pleased to announce the addition of Aeron Polodna as its new Mortgage Loan Specialist.

In this key role, Aeron will execute both secondary market and in-house residential loans, contributing to all stages of the lending process. Aeron’s extensive background uniquely positions her to lead processing efforts, deliver excellent client service, and strengthen relationships with internal and external partners.

Aeron brings more than 15 years of experience specializing in consumer and mortgage lending. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, further grounding her professional expertise with a strong academic foundation.

Aeron shared , “I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting borrowers while working alongside a team that truly values community impact. I look forward to contributing to Oak Bank’s mission and making a positive difference for our clients.”

Living on Madison’s west side with her husband, Patrick, and their Westie mix, Dot, Aeron volunteers as a chef with Lasagna Love, preparing and delivering home-cooked meals to neighbors in need. When she’s not assisting clients or cooking up a batch of lasagna, Aeron enjoys traveling, baking, and catching up on her favorite true-crime podcasts.

Melissa Torres, Vice President – Loan Operations, looks forward to the expertise, energy, and community spirit she brings to the organization noting, “Aeron’s depth of experience and passion for helping others make her an outstanding addition to our team. We are thrilled to welcome her to Oak
Bank.”

About Oak Bank
Oak Bank has been deeply rooted in the Fitchburg community and Madison area for over 25 years, meeting the financial needs of homeowners and businesses by offering top-notch service, quick answers, and creative solutions, all while supporting over 135 local nonprofits each year. Visit oak.bank to learn more.

MMSD Announces Dr. Keona S. Jones as Senior Executive Director of Schools and Learning

MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has hired Dr. Keona S. Jones as its new Senior Executive Director of Schools and Learning, bringing nearly three decades of experience as an educator, administrator and statewide leader to the role.

Jones most recently served as the Assistant State Superintendent for the Division for Student and School Success at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. First appointed in 2019 and reappointed in 2021, she oversaw statewide efforts related to educational accountability, Title I programs, the Wisconsin Urban Leadership Institute and federal Education Stabilization Funds.

Her career includes more than 28 years of service in public, private and higher education settings. Jones has been a special education teacher, assistant principal, principal, early childhood education director, executive director, consultant, district administrator and adjunct lecturer in the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She has also supported doctoral candidates as a dissertation advisor at Alverno College. She was named Administrator of the Year by the Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted for her leadership and commitment to student success.

“Dr. Jones brings a deep understanding of instructional excellence, student and staff supports, and the systems that help schools and students thrive,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, assistant superintendent of schools and learning. “Her experience positions her well to advance our strategic priorities and strengthen the structures that support our school communities. We are excited to welcome her to MMSD.”

Dr. Jones said she is excited to join the district and to continue her commitment to serving students, families and educators.

“I am honored to join MMSD and to partner with school communities that are deeply invested in student learning,” Jones said. “Throughout my career, I have believed in the power of strong relationships, equitable access and high expectations. I look forward to supporting leaders and teachers as we work together to ensure every student is known, challenged and supported.”

Jones earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She holds a master’s degree in educational leadership with curriculum and instruction and a doctoral degree in leadership, learning and service, both from Cardinal Stritch University.

For a complete listing of all available career opportunities with MMSD, please visit the district’s job portal.

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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.

East High School Counselor Honored with Inaugural AVID Global Achievement Award

MADISON, Wis.—Sarah Elmore of the Madison Metropolitan School District’s (MMSD) East High School has been selected as an inaugural recipient of AVID’s Global Achievement Award – Counselor of the Year, a national honor recognizing educators who exemplify AVID’s mission of believing in students and preparing them for college, career and life.

As East High’s AVID counselor, Elmore blends a global perspective with deep care for students. Her background as both a teacher and counselor allows her to support students holistically, helping them build confidence, develop strong academic habits and navigate their paths to graduation and beyond.

“Sarah is an extraordinary advocate for students,” said Patrice Haste, East High School principal. “She believes in their potential, pushes them to challenge themselves and celebrates every step of their growth. Her impact on our school community is tremendous, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognized at the national level.”

At East, Elmore creates supportive structures to help students succeed in rigorous courses and prepare for college and career success.

“Sarah’s work shows exactly why AVID matters,” said Mary Jankovich, MMSD executive director of college, career and community readiness. “She helps students build the skills, confidence and vision they need for life after high school, and she does it with such heart. This award reflects the difference she makes every day.”

AVID, short for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a college and career readiness system used in school districts across the country. The program provides students with academic support, structured skill-building and a strong network of adult advocates, helping them succeed in advanced coursework and prepare for postsecondary opportunities.

Elmore was honored Dec. 11 during AVID’s Global Achievement Awards ceremony at the AVID National Conference in San Diego. Launched in celebration of AVID’s 45th anniversary, the awards highlight educators who turn high expectations into meaningful outcomes and who consistently help students see what is possible for their futures. Elmore’s recognition places East High and MMSD among the first recipients of AVID’s new Global Achievement Awards, celebrating educators who demonstrate unwavering belief in students and act on that belief in transformative ways.

For more information about AVID in MMSD, please visit the district’s 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.

Oak Bank Welcomes Izzy Coughlin as Treasury Management Specialist

Fitchburg, WI – Oak Bank, Fitchburg’s trusted community bank since 2000, is pleased to announce the addition of Izzy Coughlin as its new Treasury Management Specialist. Izzy joins Oak Bank after refining her client service skills at a local community financial institution, bringing with her a passion for building strong relationships and supporting local businesses.

In her role as Treasury Management Specialist, Izzy will play a key part in Oak Bank’s commitment to delivering exceptional service to its clients while continuing to grow its Treasury Management division.

“Izzy brings a great blend of energy and client-first focus to our Treasury Management team,” said Linda Zimdars, Senior Vice President Business Banking. “Her passion for serving others and her strong community roots align perfectly with Oak Bank’s values. I’m confident she will build lasting relationships with our business clients and contribute greatly to their success.”

Izzy shared her enthusiasm for joining the Oak Bank team, saying, “I’m excited to be part of a community-focused organization that truly values its clients and team members. I look forward to helping our business clients find the right financial tools to support their growth and success.”

Izzy lives in Monticello with her husband and enjoys running her photography business in her free time. She also supports the Oregon FFA, where she previously served as Vice President during her time in high school.

About Oak Bank
Oak Bank has been deeply rooted in the Fitchburg community and Madison area for over 25 years, meeting the financial needs of homeowners and businesses by offering top-notch service, quick answers, and creative solutions, all while supporting over 135 local nonprofits each year. Visit oak.bank to learn more.

Capitol Bank Welcomes Theresa Heintz as AVP of Treasury Management & Business Development

Capitol Bank is proud to announce that Theresa Heintz has joined as Assistant Vice President of Treasury Management & Business Development. Theresa joins Capitol Bank with over 20 years of banking experience across a variety of roles and leadership responsibilities.  

“Theresa embodies our People and Relationships first values,” said Justin Hart, CEO. “Adding her business acumen to both our East and West locations presents a tremendous resource for our clients.” 

Outside of the office, Theresa volunteers with the Bed Lady program, providing mattresses to Sun Prairie schoolchildren in need, and serves on a committee with Dane County Habitat for Humanity. She lives with her husband, two sons, and three pets in Sun Prairie. 

About Capitol Bank: Capitol Bank, locally owned and operated, is committed to serving the communities in which we live, work, and do business. We are proud of the partnerships we have established with organizations, businesses, and individuals in the Greater Madison area. Our philosophy of community support is demonstrated at the corporate level, as well as in the time and energy our employees devote to our community each year. Capitol Bank is Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.