Welcome

Welcome Students and Families,

As principal of James Madison Academic Campus (J-MAC), my staff and I want to welcome you to our new, comprehensive high school! By implementing the First Things First (FTF) reform framework, we are constantly improving the atmosphere and academic programs at our campus. At J-MAC, we have four Small Learning Communities (SLCs): Law, Criminal Justice & Government; Health Sciences; Performing Arts; and New Technology & Entrepreneurship. Upon enrollment, students choose a specific community based on their personal interests and continue with their chosen SLC for all four years at J-MAC. A high school education with meaningful learning and the application of academic concepts in the real world helps prepare students for graduation and future success. The implementation of the SLCs provides students with independence as well as support and coaching. The SLCs also promote stronger relationships and collective responsibility among students and staff.

In order for students to reach their full potential, academic success at J-MAC is impacted by a variety of factors. The staff is improving teaching and learning by focusing on three research-based goals – engagement, alignment and rigor – in every classroom, every day. We believe that when all students are engaged in their work, they can better understand the need to participate in certain activities and how they relate to real-life situations. We also believe that the curriculum at J-MAC should be aligned to district Learning Targets and the Wisconsin State Standards, providing students with the education required to succeed in college or work. Finally, students receive rigorous instruction that challenges them to use creativity and determination. A program of high academic expectations is implemented at J-MAC and is reflected in the materials used, work assigned, discussions held and mastery demonstrated by all students. We prepare students for high school graduation from their first year until this goal is achieved.

At J-MAC, we have put the Family Advocate System in place to create a bridge between the school and students’ families. This system calls for each staff member to serve as an advocate for 15-19 students throughout all four years of their high school experience. This enables a strong bond to develop between the student, their family and the designated staff member – building a strong support network for each student. By incorporating the Family Advocate System with the involvement of community and business partners, the school’s environment is enriched and students are mentored and empowered by a group of successful adults.

At J-MAC, we envision improved relationships in order to foster success and achievement. The following poem serves as a foundation for success at J-MAC.

Relationships

“I dreamed I stood in a studio…and watched two sculptors there.
The clay they used was a young child’s mind and they fashioned it with care.
One was a teacher, the tools she used were books and music and art.
The other was a parent with a guiding hand and a gentle loving heart.
Day after day, the teacher toiled with a touch that was deft and sure
While the parent labored by her side and polished and smoothed it o’er.
And when at last their task was done, they were proud of what was wrought.
For the things they had molded into the child could never be sold or bought.
And each agreed they would have failed if each had worked alone,
For behind the parent, stood the school
And behind the teacher, the home.”

--Author Unknown

On behalf of the entire J-MAC staff, I encourage you to ask questions, visit our school and enroll at James Madison Academic Campus by calling (414) 393-6100 and talking to one of our friendly staff members. We are looking forward to successful high school education for all of our students and families!

Sincerely,

Z. Cistrunk, Principal