In this report, La Follette students investigate declining enrollment in the Madison Metropolitan School District and strategies to retain families in the school district.
Summary
This report investigates why families are leaving the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) while the city is growing rapidly. It also compares MMSD to other peer districts in enrollment declines in Wisconsin. This study uses interviews, analysis of social media conversations, and data from the U.S. Census, local school districts, and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to compare, contrast, and understand the key issues affecting MMSD’s retention of Madison families. This report recommends a series of best practices to mitigate enrollment declines in MMSD, such as adopting a marketing strategy aimed at families in Madison with school-age children, enhancing community engagement, and improving the school’s transportation system.
Information
- Course: Workshop in Public Affairs, PA 869, taught by Mary Michaud, Spring 2025
- Authors: Gretchen Allman, Doris Mbaka, Richmond Panford, Muhammad Rehan, Alexander Schultz
- Client: Madison Metropolitan School District