Dear MCS Family,

Another school year is coming to a close, and next Monday we will celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2026. I am excited for our seniors and the great things ahead for these amazing students. Commencement is Monday, May 18th, at the Von Braun Center (JC at 2 p.m. and BJ at 6 p.m.). All MCS schools will have an e-learning day that day.

The Class of 2026 has performed in a remarkable manner and achieved many accomplishments. This group of 1077 graduates has been offered over 85 million dollars in scholarships. This is an increase of 93% in scholarship funding offers in the past 6 years. This group also has 17 National Merit Scholars, 4 U.S. Presidential Scholars, and 17% that achieved a 30+ on the ACT. These outstanding accomplishments certainly show the dedication that the MCS staff and faculty have for all of our students. It also shows the desire and effort of these students and the incredible support they receive from the community and their families. 

However, not only have we had tremendous achievements in national-level academics, but many of our students have achieved success in dual enrollment and career and technical certifications. After graduation, 63% of the class plans to attend a 4-year university, 22% a two-year college, 10% will enter the workforce, and 5% plan to join the military. While MCS continues to offer the most AP courses, this advancement in technical programs and certifications has been a focus in our expansion of dual enrollment and CTE courses. I certainly appreciate our school and district curriculum leaders and their work to find options for success for all of our students. 

Recently, we have had two MCS employees arrested. Individuals interested in pursuing employment with Madison City Schools—whether for a teacher, support/substitute, or contract position—are required to complete a Madison City Schools employment application. The application includes background questions regarding whether the applicant is currently under investigation, has been named in an indictment, or has had a report of child abuse or sexual misconduct involving a K–12 student or minor filed against them through a school district, state or federal agency, law enforcement agency, or court. In addition, references and former employers provided by the applicant are contacted as part of the screening process. Applicants are also required to complete local, state, and federal background checks through the Alabama State Department of Education. Only individuals who complete all required steps and receive a clear background check are recommended for employment. 

These recent incidents, which are uncommon in our district’s history, have prompted us to reach out to appropriate community agencies, including the National Child Advocacy Center, for assistance in further developing and refining our employee identification, selection, and professional development processes.  

 Please know that we take these incidents very seriously and appreciate the support we receive from the Madison Police Department. I am also appreciative of the 1400 employees who come to school each day and interact with and treat our students with respect, dignity, and professionalism.

Tuesday, May 19th, will be a normal school day across the district, followed by two half-days for students to wrap up the school year on May 21. Students return for the 2026-2027 school year on August 6th.

This has been an exceptional year of progress for Madison City Schools. Our students, teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, and countless volunteers and support organizations are the key to all of our achievements. Every week of the school year, I am amazed by all of our academic, athletic, and artistic successes. Here are just a few examples from last month of student achievements: Click here. 

As our community continues to grow, we’ve taken thoughtful steps through rezoning efforts and the development of Russell Branch Elementary to ensure every student has access to outstanding learning environments. Across the district, renovations are underway for both our high schools to enhance our facilities and meet new and growing course offerings in the arts, CTE, and athletics. Our athletic programs continue to shine with remarkable achievements, and our arts and music programs have inspired audiences with their creativity and excellence. Together, these accomplishments reflect a district committed to growth, innovation, and success for ALL students. 

As many of you have likely heard, I announced at our last board meeting that I will be retiring at the end of June. This was not an easy decision. Serving as your leader in Madison City Schools has been the highlight of my career. While I look forward to the next chapter, I do so with mixed emotions, reflecting on six wonderful years as superintendent and nearly 38 years in education. Like so many of you, our family chose to make Madison our home, and it has truly become the place where we’ve put down roots. I look forward to continuing to serve this community in a volunteer capacity and to watching the future successes of this outstanding school district.

When I came to MCS, I was honored to follow the exceptional leaders who helped shape the district’s brief but remarkable history. Over the past six years, the district has received many accolades—successes made possible by the strong foundation laid by Dr. Henry Clark, Dr. Dee Fowler, Mr. Robby Parker, and Interim Superintendent and now Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Eric Terrell. I also want to express my appreciation to the Board of Education, which has been a strong and guiding force for the development of our district both past and present. 

At the heart of the district’s success, however, are the administrators, teachers, and support staff whose dedication to students is unwavering. Each day, before the sun rises and long after it sets, these committed professionals work tirelessly to provide the children of our community with the very best educational experience.

Lift Off - Empowering All Students

Ed Nichols

Superintendent