This article was written for the May edition of the Community Compass newsletter.
The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District is excited to expand its Summer Session programming for Summer 2026, offering students, families, and community members new opportunities to learn, explore, and connect through engaging educational experiences.
While registration for the District’s K-12 Summer Session programming has now closed, MCPASD is excited to welcome students to a summer filled with hands-on learning and enrichment opportunities. Community members can still register for several Adult Learning Opportunities taking place this summer.
This year’s Summer Session reflects the District’s continued commitment to the Cardinal’s Journey, with programming designed to encourage curiosity, collaboration, and adaptability through hands-on, individualized learning opportunities. From early learning and academic enrichment to adult education experiences, MCPASD is continuing to grow and evolve its summer offerings to better serve learners of all ages.
New and Expanded Opportunities for Summer 2026
This summer introduces several new and expanded programs designed to support learners at every stage:
Flying Into Kindergarten
One of the newest additions to Summer Session is Flying Into Kindergarten, a program designed to help incoming 4K and kindergarten students build confidence and become comfortable with school routines before the start of the school year. Through play-based, evidence-based instruction, students will have the opportunity to explore the school environment in a supportive and engaging setting.
Extended Elementary Academy
MCPASD is also launching the Extended Elementary Academy, a flexible afternoon enrichment program for rising 1st through 4th grade students. Running from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, the program emphasizes interactive, hands-on activities that reinforce core academic skills while encouraging creativity and collaboration. Families can customize participation through flexible two-, four-, or six-week enrollment options.
Expanded High School Opportunities
For secondary students, Summer 2026 introduces new Pre-AP course opportunities open to students entering grades 8–12. These courses are designed to strengthen critical thinking, analytical reading, and writing skills while helping students prepare for the rigor of Advanced Placement coursework.
Improved Family Support & Enrollment
The District also streamlined its open enrollment process for Summer Session to make registration easier and more accessible for families this year. Dedicated bilingual staff will be available in school front offices during the first two weeks of programming to assist families with registration, schedules, and transportation support in real time.
MCPASD Introduces Adult Learning Opportunities This Summer
In addition to youth programming, MCPASD is also offering Adult Learning Opportunities designed to help community members explore creativity, wellness, and connection through engaging, hands-on experiences. Registration for these community offerings remains open.
Introductory Watercolor Class: Create, Relax, and Unwind
Looking for a creative way to de-stress and try something new? This 90-minute introductory watercolor class is designed specifically for beginners, with no prior experience needed.
Participants will explore the fundamentals of watercolor painting in a relaxed, supportive environment, including basic techniques, how the medium works, and how watercolor can be used as a tool for mindfulness and relaxation. After guided instruction and practice, participants will complete a step-by-step project to create their own finished piece.
There will also be time to experiment independently, encouraging participants to slow down, explore, and enjoy the process. The focus is not on perfection, but on creativity, relaxation, and personal expression.
Location: Middleton High School Launchpad (Room 1901)
2100 Bristol Street, Middleton, WI 53562
Enter Door 1 (South Entrance)
Date/Time: June 4, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Local Foraging: Discovering Edible Landscapes Around Us
The District is also pleased to offer Local Foraging: Discovering Edible Landscapes Around Us, a unique outdoor learning experience led by Chris Gavin, an experienced outdoor skills instructor based in Cross Plains, WI.
Gavin brings more than 20 years of experience foraging wild foods and currently teaches through Eagle Outdoor Skills, the Natural Resource Foundation of Wisconsin, and Scouting America. His courses emphasize both traditional knowledge and modern safety practices.
Participants will learn the basics of foraging, including safety guidelines, ethical and legal considerations, and how to confidently identify edible plants in the wild. The experience includes a short guided hike through the beautiful Pheasant Branch Conservancy, where participants will observe and discuss local flora in its natural setting.
This hands-on series is designed to deepen participants’ connection to the land while building practical knowledge about the natural world right in our own community.
Location: Middleton High School
Open to all community members
Date/Time: Thursday evenings (6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.)
June 11
June 18
June 25
Questions: Amy Schernecker, Community Outreach Coordinator
aschernecker@mcpasd.k12.wi.us | (608) 829-9028
Whether students are preparing for kindergarten, exploring advanced coursework, engaging in hands-on enrichment, or community members are picking up a paintbrush or stepping onto a local trail, MCPASD’s summer opportunities are designed to help learners of all ages grow, explore, and stay connected throughout the summer.