MMSD board approves three strategic performance objectives for 2026–27 school year

The Madison Metropolitan School District Board of Education on Aug. 25 voted to adopt three strategic-framework performance objectives — belonging, academic achievement and college credit/credentials — that will begin in the 2026–27 school year.

Board President Nichols moved the first motion to approve the belonging objective; Maya Pearson seconded it. The board later approved the academic achievement and the college credit and credentials objectives in separate motions. Each motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: The objectives reframe how the district will report progress. The belonging objective directs the district to increase the percentage of students who report they feel they belong at school, measured primarily by the district climate survey. The academic achievement objective ties required state assessments, early reading readiness measures and GPA into a broader picture of student learning. The college credit and credentials objective focuses on expanding measurable postsecondary value through college credits, industry credentials, work-based learning and the seal of biliteracy.

Measurement and debate: Board member Ali Muldrow asked how student belonging will be…