How we Built our New Strategic Plan, MMSD: Excellence Together

In this episode, Superintendent Joe Gothard and Assistant Superintendent of Strategy and Innovation Cindy Green take a closer look at the launch and implementation of the Madison Metropolitan School District’s new five-year strategic plan, MMSD: Excellence Together. They break down the origin of the plan rooted in extensive school site visits and community feedback, highlight the role of the newly created Office of Strategy and Innovation and explore how cross-functional teaming and data tracking will ensure long-term success across all facilities. This conversation offers a clear and practical guide to what you can expect from MMSD in the coming years. In This Episode: The origin of the MMSD: Excellence Together strategic plan, built from Superintendent Gothard's visits to 48 school sites and feedback from over 2,500 community members and an 80-person steering committee. How the newly established Office of Strategy and Innovation plans to down operational silos. The five key priority focus areas driving the next five years, ranging from academic achievement to community partnerships. Student performance objectives focused on 4K–12 literacy and math, student belonging and post-secondary outcomes like earning college credits or industry credentials while still in high school. Implementation and tracking strategies, including key performance indicators, annual community updates and a commitment to pivot where necessary. Key Takeaway Partnering with the community to establish clear priorities and accountable tracking ensures that every MMSD school delivers an equitable, supportive and future-ready educational experience designed to empower future generations of students.