$1.2M grant to address MMSD teacher training, diversity

CUNA Mutual Group announces grant Thursday

MADISON, Wis. — A $1.2 million grant from CUNA Mutual Group is aimed at supporting new teachers and diversifying the Madison Metropolitan School District workforce.

“It’s our hope that Forward Madison will represent something meaningful and sustained in the area of educational betterment,” Robert Trunzo, President/CEO of CUNA Mutual Group said.

The grant announced Thursday will fund Forward Madison, which will also provide continued professional development for Madison teachers.

“Together, we are committed to closing the opportunity gaps that produce different results for our students. To do that, we must have the very best educators with the very best support at every school,” Superintendent Jennifer Cheatham said.

Forward Madison begins this fall and is aimed at strengthening the relationship between the school district and the University of Wisconsin School of Education.

“We, and our partners with the Madison Schools, know that effective educators are one of the most important factors in student learning and ensuring that every child has access to a free, high-quality education,” School of Education Dean Julie Underwood said.

Forward Madison is a pilot initiative what could be used as a model for other districts and university partners in the future.