Voices of People. Purpose. Pride.

Getting Literate in Literacy

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 10:10:00 -0500

In this episode, MMSD Senior Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Becky Kundert and Teacher Leader of Literacy Implementation Karine Sloan discuss all things literacy in the Madison Metropolitan School District. They break down topics ranging from the science of reading, to the informed and collaborative process behind policy and curriculum development, to MMSD literacy resources, covering the history of MMSD's ever-relevant journey to positively serve student literacy needs.

This conversation emphasizes the value of understanding the fundamental "whys" behind student needs in school policy, as well as the necessity for continual transparency and collective effort by both educators and families in addressing student needs in an ever-changing landscape.

Whether you're a parent, educator, community member, or you simply value the development of literacy within schools, this episode provides a valuable look at the part we can all play in ensuring student literacy education thrives.

In This Episode:

The history of MMSD's literacy development
Understanding the literacy curriculum building process
Explaining the science of reading
The influence of literacy legislation
How educators and families can encourage literacy
The importance of K-8 disciplinary literacy

Key Takeaway

Literacy development isn't static. It's an ever-evolving process that we must refine and continually work to understand as a district and community in order to best ensure our students are thriving and literate.

Strong Schools, Strong Community

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:25:00 -0500

In this episode, MMSD Legislative Liaison, Victoria Stewart and Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services, Bob Soldner explore the importance of collaboration, communication, and community engagement in shaping positive outcomes for students. From building trust with families to creating meaningful partnerships throughout the community, they discuss how listening, learning and working together can help schools better serve every student.

The conversation highlights the value of transparency, shared responsibility and the collective effort required to create learning environments where students can thrive.

Whether you're a parent, educator, community member, or district stakeholder, this episode offers insight into the role each of us plays in supporting student success.

In This Episode:

The importance of family and community engagement
Building trust through communication and transparency
Creating partnerships that support students
Listening to community voices and feedback
Strengthening connections between schools and families
Working together to improve student outcomes

Key Takeaway

Student success is a shared responsibility. When schools, families, and communities work together with a common purpose, students benefit from stronger support systems and greater opportunities to succeed.

Beyond the Bottom Line: Understanding the Budget

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:10:00 -0500

School budgets can seem complicated, but their impact is felt in every classroom, program, and student experience.

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard and Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services, Bob Soldner take a closer look at the budget process, discussing the challenges, opportunities and decisions that shape how resources are allocated. They break down key financial concepts, explain what drives budget priorities, and share insights into how strategic investments support students, staff and the broader community.

Whether you're a parent, educator, community member, or simply interested in how public dollars are used, this conversation offers a practical look at the decisions behind the numbers.

In This Episode:

Understanding the budget development process
Key factors impacting school district finances
Balancing needs, priorities, and available resources
Long-term planning and fiscal responsibility
How budget decisions affect students and families
Looking ahead: future challenges and opportunities

Key Takeaway

A budget is more than a financial document — it's a reflection of an organization's priorities, values, and commitment to the people it serves.