The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is continuing to advance the next phase of its voter-approved 2024 facilities referendum, with updated site plans and exterior building renderings now available for Cherokee Heights Middle School and Ray F. Sennett Middle School.
Community members will have an opportunity to view the latest designs and provide feedback during upcoming public input sessions scheduled for this week. The sessions will take place at 5:30 p.m. in each school's library:
- Cherokee Heights Middle School: Wednesday, June 3
- Ray F. Sennett Middle School: Thursday, June 4
Additional community engagement opportunities for the combined Akira R. Toki Middle School and Orchard Ridge Elementary School project are planned for this fall.
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The Phase 2 projects build on the momentum of the district's referendum work and include the construction of new school facilities designed to support modern learning environments, strengthen neighborhood connections and serve students for generations to come. Updated site plans show continued refinement of building placement, traffic flow, outdoor learning spaces, athletic areas and community-use features as the projects move through the design process.
"These sessions are an important opportunity for families, staff, neighbors and community members to see how the projects are evolving and to share their perspectives before designs are finalized," said Scott Chehak, senior executive director of building services. "The feedback we've received throughout this process has helped shape each project, and we look forward to continuing that collaboration as we move toward construction."
The Cherokee Heights project includes a new building positioned to maximize site functionality while maintaining access to outdoor recreation and gathering spaces. At Sennett, plans continue to take shape for a new facility that will enhance learning environments while improving circulation and site organization. The Toki/Orchard Ridge project similarly continues to advance, with updated plans reflecting ongoing design development and coordination.
All three Phase 2 projects remain on schedule to open for students in summer 2029.
"Our goal is to create schools that support high-quality teaching and learning while reflecting the priorities of the communities they serve," Chehak said. "The work happening now will help ensure these facilities meet the needs of students, families and staff for decades to come."
The Phase 2 projects are part of MMSD's long-term facilities strategy and follow the Phase 1 referendum work currently underway at the Sherman Middle School/Malcolm Shabazz City High School sites.
