The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District (MCPASD) is proud to announce that Middleton High School ranks first in Dane County and is among the top schools in Wisconsin among public, non-charter schools for 2026 ACT composite scores. Middleton High School’s average ACT composite score is 23.4; it’s the second consecutive year that Middleton High School has led Dane County in ACT scores.
“These strong scores reflect our tradition of excellence at Middleton High School and the dedication of our extraordinary educators, staff, students, and families,” said MCPASD Superintendent Dr. Dana Monogue. “We are grateful for our teachers’ support of our students and for our administration’s focus on the right work to help students succeed academically.”
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) released the results of standardized tests from the 2025-2026 school year on Oct. 1. Full assessment data is available on the DPI’s WISEdash Public Portal.
ACT composite scores represent an average of a student’s English, math, and reading test scores.
“Our educators help students prepare for standardized exams as well as foster meaningful learning on a daily basis,” said MCPASD Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Jan Chynoweth. “Our approach is part of our District’s future-preparedness framework, A Cardinal’s Journey, which helps students develop the skills and mindsets necessary to succeed academically and in the rest of their lives.”
The top ACT scores ranking follows accolades for Middleton High School including recognition as the #1 high school in the Madison Metro Area in the 2026-2027 U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools rankings. In addition, Niche.com recently ranked Middleton High School the #1 Best Public High School in the Madison Area, the #1 Best College Prep Public High School in Wisconsin, the #3 Best High School for STEM in Wisconsin, and the #5 Best Public High School in Wisconsin.
“We continually strive for excellence in academics, arts, athletics, and career and technical education,” said Middleton High School Principal Bobbie Reinhart. “The strong ACT scores demonstrate our students’ college readiness as they prepare for graduation and their post-high school journeys. We’re proud of our scores and also understand there’s room for growth. We remain committed to fostering a learning environment where all our students are empowered to grow into the best version of themselves.”