A Message from Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard: Strengthening Our Schools, A Shared Responsibility

Dear MMSD Families, Staff and Community,

Thank you for your “yes” vote in the November referenda. Your vote of confidence in MMSD was critical, enabling us to build sustainable revenue streams and move away from relying on one-time funds to balance our budget. This financial stability allows us to better plan for the future. We are incredibly thankful for your investment in the future of MMSD.  

However, even with this strong foundation, public education continues to face significant financial challenges due to persistent underfunding at both the state and federal levels. Our public schools have long been underfunded, and now, more than ever, it’s critical that public education, which welcomes all students, is prioritized.

From a state funding perspective, we appreciate the recent budget passed by the State Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Evers. However, significant concerns remain about the long-term financial health of public education in Wisconsin.

• Since 2020, the State of Wisconsin has had extra money in its fund balance. The most recent state budget process began with approximately $4.2 billion in surplus funds. Although the state budget continues to reflect a surplus, no new state general aid has been provided to help offset rising inflation costs. 

• Madison is expected to see a $12 million loss in general aid compared to last year, resulting in a $12 million increase in property taxes. While that increase in property taxes has been reflected in MMSD’s current budget, meaning no additional taxes to local property owners for 2025, it will have future impacts. The per-pupil revenue limit increase of $325 per student, which would normally be partially funded by state aid, shifts to local property owners. 

• Although the increase in special education reimbursement to a potential 45% represents a positive step forward, considerable work remains to be done to ensure adequate funding for public schools. For example, public school districts statewide had originally advocated for a 90% special education reimbursement rate. Even with this increase, MMSD faces a $64 million shortfall for the upcoming school year.  

In addition to these state-level challenges, public schools are now facing unexpected and significant financial impacts due to the withholding of federal funds – dollars we had counted on. These potential cuts will affect real people–our students, families, educators, staff and the wider community. 

Specifically, programming provided by Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) sites awarded 21st Century Community Learning Center grants are immediately impacted. Students and families, many of whom work in Dane County, depend on these wraparound care services to help provide essential afterschool support. 

Despite these funds being withheld, our dedicated team is working diligently to ensure we continue to provide support and continuity for our stakeholders who rely on these services. 

However, the financial implications are severe:

• MSCR Afterschool Programs: More than $1 million of federal funds is being withheld from MSCR, directly impacting afterschool programming at 11 MMSD schools. Should these funds remain withheld, afterschool programming and student transportation could be significantly reduced, or property taxes increased to cover the loss. These federal funds for 21st Century Community Learning Center grants provide students safe spaces for afterschool enrichment and wraparound support for working parents. 

• Critical Instructional and Support Programs: In addition, approximately $1.9 million in federal funding is also being withheld, impacting programs critical to supporting our students and teachers:

  • Title II Part A ($800,000): These funds are essential for improving teaching and learning. In MMSD, these dollars are used explicitly for mentorship and professional development opportunities for teachers newer to the district, providing guidance, training, and supportive connections that enhance instructional quality for all students. 

  • Title III Part A ($600,000): This funding focuses on supporting English learners and immigrant students in achieving English language proficiency and meeting state academic standards. In MMSD, these funds are specifically used for student instructional materials and staff professional development to better support our diverse multilingual learners. 

  • Title IV, Part A ($500,000): This funding helps provide students access to a well-rounded education, ensures safe and healthy learning conditions, and promotes the effective use of technology to improve academic achievement. 

The sudden withholding of these federal funds creates immense uncertainty as we plan and budget. Many districts, including ours, had already made staffing decisions and planned programs based on the expectation of receiving these allocated funds. The potential loss or delay of this funding could force us to make difficult choices about staffing levels, program offerings, and the very services that support our most vulnerable students. Those most impacted by these cuts are, unequivocally, our children.

MMSD will continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and closely monitor our projected revenue as always. However, even with our best efforts, should funding continue to decrease, or unexpected holds be placed on funds, difficult decisions will inevitably need to be made regarding programming, staffing, and resources. We remain steadfast in our commitment to preparing students for college, career, and community. 

Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we navigate these evolving financial challenges. Together, we can ensure all our students learn, grow and thrive.

In partnership, 

Joe Gothard, Ed. D.
Superintendent

MMSD also held a press conference regarding this topic on July 9, 2025. A recording is available below.