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Madison’s Sennett, Cherokee Heights middle schools get all-electric rebuilds
Madison school officials marked the start of construction on new buildings for Ray F. Sennett and Cherokee Heights middle schools. The projects are part of a $507 million facilities referendum and include geothermal heating and cooling systems.
MADISON, Wis. — Construction is moving forward on new buildings for Ray F. Sennett and Cherokee Heights middle schools after the Madison Metropolitan School District held groundbreaking ceremonies Wednesday.
The projects are funded through the district’s 2024 facilities referendum, a $507 million investment in school buildings. The new Sennett school is planned at about 137,000 square feet, while Cherokee Heights is expected to span about 148,000 square feet.
Both designs have received Climate Champion recognition and are expected to reduce embodied carbon by 15%. The schools will be all-electric, with geothermal systems providing heating and cooling.
Sennett Principal Jeffrey Copeland said the updated building would offer students more opportunities to learn, collaborate and explore their interests. He thanked the community for supporting the investment and said the school is intended to serve future generations.
Cherokee Heights Principal Roberto Moreno said the new facility would provide spaces for connection, creativity and academic growth, while reinforcing students’ sense of belonging.
The district has not provided a completion date in the information released about the groundbreakings.