Dane County School Board approves withdrawal from Consortium after effectiveness concerns

The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District Board convened on March 17, 2025, to discuss several key issues affecting local education, including special education funding, upcoming elections, and administrative approvals.

The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of unified advocacy for special education funding. Board members expressed enthusiasm about recent collaborative efforts among various groups to present a consistent message to state lawmakers. One member highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the lack of adequate funding for special education is a pressing concern. The conversation underscored the need for community engagement in the upcoming elections, with members encouraging constituents to support candidates who prioritize public education.

Following this, the board acknowledged the contributions of Erin Wheeler, who provided clarity on complex school finance issues, which have often been misunderstood by legislators. The board members expressed gratitude for the educational support that has helped them navigate these discussions.

The meeting then transitioned to administrative matters, beginning with the approval of an amended agreement regarding the youth center program. The board unanimously passed this motion, demonstrating their commitment to local youth services.

Next, the board reviewed and approved the meeting calendar for the 2025-2026 school year, with a minor amendment to adjust the date of a September meeting to accommodate a holiday. The board also discussed the scheduling of listening sessions for community input, ensuring that candidates for the upcoming election would have access to this information for promotion.

The first reading of policy revisions was presented, with board members noting minor corrections and updates. The board approved the first reading, setting the stage for further discussion and final approval in the future.

Finally, the board addressed the dissolution of its participation in the Dane County Schools Consortium. Superintendent Minogue explained that the consortium's effectiveness had diminished over time, prompting the decision to withdraw and seek alternative collaborative frameworks for career and technical education.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's proactive approach to addressing funding issues, community engagement, and administrative efficiency. The board plans to continue its advocacy efforts and will reconvene to finalize policy revisions and discuss further actions in the coming months.