Sauk Trail Elementary School was honored to host Wisconsin Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski for a special visit celebrating investments in school libraries across the state. As Chair of the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands (BCPL), Secretary Godlewski presented a ceremonial check representing $571,237 in funds allocated specifically to the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District (MCPASD) to support libraries and media centers.
The presentation, held in the Sauk Trail Elementary School Library, showcased the impact of the Common School Fund, which provides the primary source of funding for more than 90% of public school libraries in Wisconsin. MCPASD is proud to be among the many school districts benefiting from these critical resources that help enrich student learning and literacy.
Secretary Godlewski was joined by State Representative Alex Joers, Middleton Mayor Emily Kuhn, MCPASD Superintendent Dr. Dana Monogue, Library Media Specialist Betsy Wermuth, and other local leaders and advocates for public education and literacy.
As part of the celebration, Secretary Godlewski read Grace for President to a group of students. The engaging story about civic responsibility and leadership was followed by a student-led voting activity, where young readers cast ballots and proudly received “I Voted” stickers — bringing the themes of the book to life in a fun and meaningful way.
The visit also coincided with National Library Week, making it the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the important role school libraries play in student learning and success. MCPASD extends heartfelt appreciation to all our Library Media Specialists who work tirelessly to create inclusive, engaging spaces for exploration, literacy, and lifelong learning.
A special thank-you goes to Betsy Wermuth, Library Media Specialist at Sauk Trail Elementary, for her leadership in organizing the visit and her ongoing commitment to supporting students and staff. Betsy’s creative energy and dedication are evident every day in the way she brings books to life, promotes digital literacy, and cultivates a love of reading in her school community.
“When students have access to well-resourced libraries, they are empowered to explore, create, and grow,” said Godlewski. “Through the Common School Fund, we’re making a real difference in classrooms and helping ease the burden on local taxpayers.”
This year, the BCPL will distribute a record-breaking $70 million to public school libraries across Wisconsin — the largest amount in the fund’s history. The growth of the fund is the result of responsible investments and a renewed focus on modernizing state government operations.
About the BCPL and the Common School Fund:
The Board of Commissioners of Public Lands manages more than $1.5 billion in state trust funds, including the Common School Fund. Annual distributions from the fund help schools purchase books, technology, and other resources. Wisconsin is the only state in the nation with a fund like this dedicated solely to supporting public school libraries. The BCPL is comprised of Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski (Chair), State Treasurer John Leiber, and Attorney General Josh Kaul.