The Madison Metropolitan School District announced Tuesday an important first step taken by the first cohort of its Grow Your Own to Teacher Program. Participants will earn associate degrees at Madison College as they work toward teacher licensure through the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Education.
The program helps MMSD district employees earn bachelor’s degrees and K-9 teaching licenses.
The inaugural cohort includes eight MMSD employees who graduated from Madison College this spring or summer with University Transfer—Education associate degrees and have been accepted into UW–Madison for the fall 2026 semester. Participants are expected to earn their bachelor’s degrees and teaching licenses in 2028 and then return to MMSD classrooms as licensed educators.
“This program represents the very best of what can happen when school districts and higher education institutions work together to invest in people,” Jen Schoepke, director of special projects for MMSD and the UW–Madison School of Education, said in a statement. “These participants have balanced careers, coursework and family responsibilities while pursuing their dreams of becoming teachers. Their dedication reflects a deep commitment to the students and communities they already serve every day.”
Participants in the program will continue working in their current district roles part time while attending school full time while MMSD supports them with tuition assistance and stipends.
