A Principal Experience FAQ
What is the purpose of A Principal Experience?
A Principal Experience connects community leaders with the heart of our public education system: the schools. Through this immersive experience, Principal Partners gain firsthand insight into the decisions, responsibilities, and challenges that school principals manage every day. The event inspires participants to become more deeply engaged in supporting public education and builds meaningful relationships between school leaders and private-sector professionals.
Why is the Madison Public Schools Foundation hosting this program?
The Foundation exists to enrich the education of all students in Madison’s public schools through private support, strategic partnerships, and community engagement. Since its launch in 2004, A Principal Experience has welcomed more than 1,000 local leaders into our schools. The program provides a powerful way to build lasting relationships between Madison’s public schools and community members who have the potential to support them as Champions, Sponsors, or Adopt-a-School partners.
What will I be doing as a Principal Partner?
As a Principal Partner, you’ll spend the morning of October 30 shadowing a school principal and participating in the life of their school. You’ll receive a list of suggested activities in advance to help you and your host principal tailor the visit to your interests. The day will be collaborative, insightful, and inspiring — with preparation and communication ahead of time ensuring the most rewarding experience.
How will I be matched with a school principal?
The Principal Partner application includes space to indicate preferences, such as a specific school or level (elementary, middle, or high school). While we can’t guarantee every request, we’ll do our best to honor them. Principals also share what they hope to gain from the experience, and we consider those goals when making matches. Factors like your professional background, interests, and stated goals help us make thoughtful pairings.
Note: Due to high interest, some schools may host more than one Principal Partner. We’ll let you know in advance if you’re paired with others.
What happens once I’m matched with a principal?
In early October, both Principal Partners and school principals will receive their “Matchpack” containing key information about their pairing and guidance for the day. We strongly encourage you to connect with your host principal via phone or email ahead of October 30. This early connection helps set the tone for a productive and engaging visit tailored to your shared goals and interests.
What are the logistics for October 30?
The day begins between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m., depending on your assigned school. You’ll spend the morning shadowing your host principal and experiencing the school day alongside them.
At 12:00 p.m., all Principal Partners and MMSD principals will gather at the Alliant Energy Center for lunch and facilitated discussion. This culminating session is essential as it’s where the day’s insights turn into action and community leaders reflect on how they can support Madison’s schools moving forward.
The event concludes by 1:30 p.m.
Can Madison support A Principal Experience next year?
Absolutely! The previous success of A Principal Experience demonstrates its value to both school leaders and community participants. Many leaders return multiple years, often choosing to visit different schools to broaden their perspective. Several local organizations have even sent multiple employees over time, recognizing the long-term impact the program has on their staff and the community at large.