Join us at Thermo Fisher Scientific on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, for the 3rd Annual Schools Make Madison Summit, a powerful gathering focused on improving student attendance and literacy.
Together, we’ll explore how these critical areas shape a student’s sense of belonging and academic success. Hear from MMSD leaders, engage with community partners, and discover ways we can move forward together to create lasting change for our students.
Let’s build a stronger Madison, one student at a time.
7:30 AM | Arrival, Breakfast & Networking
Start your morning with a light breakfast and meaningful connections. Pick up your name badge, grab a cup of coffee, and engage with fellow attendees while enjoying live student performances.
8:00 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks
Enjoy a warm welcome from Mary Romolino, MPSF Board Chair, and a representative from our host, Thermo Fisher Scientific. Learn about the day ahead and hear from our generous sponsors, Horace Mann Education Foundation and Park Bank.
8:15 AM | Engaging Students to Improve School Attendance
How do we ensure every student feels a sense of belonging and motivation to attend school? Gain insights from MMSD’s Lead Attendance Social Worker, Laura Glaub, and hear from a panel of school leaders and community experts tackling attendance barriers head-on. Connect with others through a guided “Pair & Share” discussion and participate in a live Q&A.
9:00 AM | Teacher Support Network: 5-Year Celebration
Celebrate five years of supporting teachers with essential classroom resources. Learn how the Teacher Support Network was created, how it has evolved, and the role EZ Office Products plays in making an impact.
9:15 AM | Break – Refuel & Connect
Take a moment to recharge, grab a snack, and engage with fellow attendees. Continue the conversation with a networking activity designed to spark new connections.
9:30 AM | Literacy: Building Strong Foundations
Literacy is a critical foundation for lifelong success, and it takes a community to support every reader. Discover how Thoreau Elementary is fostering literacy through innovative programs, with insights from Emily Jensen, Principal, and Kelly McCann, Literacy Interventionist. Learn about their Adopt-a-School partnerships with Westminster Presbyterian and American Printing Company, and how these collaborations are creating a supportive system for building literacy. Engage in a “Pair & Share” reflection, participate in a Q&A, and celebrate the contributions of our Adopt-a-School partners.
10:30 AM | Special Remarks & Student Recognition
Celebrate the achievements of MMSD students and hear from key leaders. Be inspired by a student spotlight (TBD), followed by remarks from Dr. Gothard on the importance of community partnerships in student success. We are also hopeful to hear from Governor Tony Evers, who will share his insights on the future of public education and how we all contribute to shaping that future.
10:50 AM | Closing Remarks
Conclude the morning with final thoughts from Foundation President, Melinda Heinritz, reflecting on the day’s discussions and looking ahead to the work still to come.
