Madison school board installs new officers, proclaims April autism acceptance month

Savian Castro was elected president of the Madison Metropolitan School District board of education at the board's April 27 meeting following nominations and a secret ballot. The board also elected Blair Moser Falam as vice president, Maya Pearson as treasurer and Ali Moldro as clerk; Natalie Rue was appointed secretary by unanimous voice vote.

The board opened by reading the district's vision and mission statements and then adopted a resolution designating April as "autism acceptance and inclusion month." Board member Nikki Vanderm read the resolution, which emphasizes equity‑centered special education practices, staff training on inclusive and trauma‑informed classrooms, strengthened partnerships with families and autistic self‑advocates, and the use of data to address disparities in identification and discipline.

The incoming president acknowledged the transition and announced the meeting's written submissions and public comment topics, then moved the agenda into public appearances. The board also announced a 30‑day window to accept proposals to rename Chavez Elementary School, as allowed under board policy 6700; an ad hoc renaming committee will be formed at the May 18 meeting.

The new officers will assume their roles as the board proceeds with district work on the 2024 facilities referendum projects, community engagement sessions and upcoming budget deliberations.

The meeting adjourned after routine consent items and committee reports.