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Madison school district starts construction on two middle schools slated for 2028
MMSD has begun work on replacement buildings for Sennett and Cherokee Heights, funded through the district’s voter-approved 2024 facilities referendum. Both schools are expected to open for the 2028-29 school year and have received top marks in a county climate-design program.
The Madison Metropolitan School District has broken ground on replacement buildings for Ray F. Sennett and Cherokee Heights middle schools, with both projects expected to be completed in time for the 2028-29 school year.
The Oct. 15 groundbreaking marks a new phase of the district’s voter-approved 2024 facilities referendum. MMSD said the projects remain on schedule and within budget.
Plans call for a roughly 137,000-square-foot building at Sennett and a 148,000-square-foot building at Cherokee Heights. The district says the new facilities are intended to provide updated spaces for students, educators and school communities.
Sennett Principal Jeffrey Copeland said the project will create more opportunities for students to learn and collaborate. Cherokee Heights Principal Roberto Moreno said the new building is intended to support academic growth, creativity and students’ sense of belonging.
Both schools were named 2026 Dane County Climate Champions, earning four stars—the highest designation—in the county’s Building Design category. The recognition highlights the projects’ focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.