Madison Metropolitan School District

Dr. Joe Gothard

Dr. Joe Gothard is a dedicated educator grounded in his community and committed to supporting students, staff and families through a people-centered approach to education. He has championed numerous initiatives that boost academic success, expand opportunities for diverse learners and advance inclusion.

In an interview with EducationInsider Magazine, Gothard discussed how meeting each child’s unique needs, balanced technology use, and his commitment to support every learner guide his leadership.

Leadership Rooted in Experience

I was born and raised in Madison and spent over two decades in the school district, rising through the ranks from educational assistant to assistant superintendent. In 2013, I moved to Minnesota and served four years as superintendent in Burnsville–Eagan–Savage, followed by seven years in Saint Paul Public Schools.

Serving as a superintendent at Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is deeply meaningful to me. Being an MMSD alumnus, my connection to this community remains central to how I lead.

Commitment to Student Growth

MMSD student enrollment is expected to rise over the next two decades, offering us the opportunity to become a destination district serving children from 4K through their entire educational journey. To advance this ambition, we have envisaged a strategic plan, 'Excellence Together' and an operational plan, 'Building for the Future'.

2023 Wisconsin Act 20 requires teachers to be trained in the science of reading, and many of our educators have already completed this training or are currently enrolled. Our Board of Education reduced early-grade class sizes to strengthen literacy instruction, recognizing that reading proficiency by third grade is essential for lifelong success. We place particular emphasis on students of color, students with disabilities and multilingual learners to close opportunity gaps.

Well-being and academic development are intertwined and must be integrated while still meeting each child’s unique needs. I have long valued our commitment to serving every student consistently and effectively in ways that best support their growth.

Navigating Technology for Balanced Learning

The opportunities presented by digital platforms are substantial, while at the same time, there is increasing discussion about restricting cellphone and online use. It is essential to ensure that students have safe, purposeful access to online tools, whether social media or artificial intelligence, that can accelerate learning prospects. A clear distinction must be made between technology that supports education and the one which detracts from it.

" My motivation stems from being present in our schools, learning directly from educators and students while fulfilling my role as superintendent. "

We acknowledge that every classroom contains learners with diverse needs and preferences. Some students may avoid technology, others may thrive with it, and some may use it only when it helps them access specific resources not available in print or the library.

Maintaining vigilance around technology use is essential while supporting students’ readiness to engage fully and positively with school and peers. In response to the new cellphone ban, MMSD will implement a compliant policy by July 1, building on existing policies that already limit improper use.

Motivation Rooted in Meaningful Engagements

My motivation stems from being present in our schools, learning directly from educators and students while fulfilling my role as superintendent. During designated times, I stop by schools for unplanned walkthroughs, allowing me to observe daily experiences and hear genuine perspectives from principals, teachers, staff, parents and students.

I aim to understand what is working well, what motivates the school community and what obstacles they feel are limiting their success. Students with clear futures and those still exploring their venues inspire a commitment to strengthen the system so all can succeed. Questions about the superintendent’s role and decision-making are always welcomed to maintain accountability. The insights gained inform recommendations presented to the Board of Education to enhance MMSD’s educational quality and success.