Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at MMS

At Madison School District, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality learning. A guaranteed and viable curriculum is our promise to make that happen.

Guaranteed means all students are taught the same essential skills and knowledge in each grade level and subject.
Viable means the curriculum is realistic, well-designed, and can be effectively taught within the school year.

This approach supports consistency, fairness, and strong learning experiences for every student. Our curriculum, instruction, and assessment work together to outline the essential skills, knowledge, and experiences that help students grow academically, socially, and personally from one year to the next.

Curriculum

A Structured Process
Madison uses a structured process to design and update our curriculum so all students receive high-quality, consistent learning experiences.

Regular Review Cycle
We follow a routine review cycle that keeps curriculum current, aligned with Michigan standards, and responsive to student needs.

Ready for What's Next
Our intentional approach ensures students are prepared for college, careers, and lifelong learning.

Instruction

High Quality
At Madison School District, high-quality instruction is the foundation of student success. Our teachers use evidence-based practices aligned with the Michigan Department of Education to keep students engaged, thinking deeply, and achieving at high levels. This approach supports diverse learners and ensures all students have access to rigorous, meaningful learning experiences.

MTSS Framework
Madison uses a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to ensure students receive the level of support they need academically, behaviorally, and socially-emotionally. Instruction is based on student needs, ensuring every child gets the right help at the right time.

Assessment

Instruction Connected to Assessment
Teachers use a variety of assessments—formative, interim, and summative—to understand where students are, plan next steps, and adjust instruction in real time. This ongoing feedback allows us to meet students where they are and support their continued growth.

Data = Good Decisions
Assessment information helps guide instruction and provide support for students at every level of our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), ensuring students receive what they need academically and behaviorally.

Helpful Resources

Michigan Academic Standards

Michigan's academic standards outline what students are expected to learn at each grade level and serve as a foundation for curriculum development. Madison uses these standards as a framework while designing our own curriculum, instructional resources, and learning pathways based on the needs and values of our community.

Michigan Department of Education Academic Standards Website

Michigan Merit Curriculum/Graduation Requirements

The Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) is built on the belief that all students benefit from learning opportunities beyond high school. While it is not a curriculum that outlines specific materials or teaching methods, the MMC defines the required content and skills every student must demonstrate to earn a high school diploma.

Michigan Department of Education Curriculum/Graduation Requirements Website

Michigan Merit Curriculum Overview

Madison Course Description Guides

Assessment Calendars

Madison School District is committed to keeping families informed about important assessment dates throughout the year. Below you’ll find links to both the State of Michigan summative assessment calendar and our district assessment calendar, which outline testing windows and scheduling information for students in all grade levels. These calendars help families plan ahead and understand when key assessments—such as M-STEP, PSAT/SAT, and district benchmarks—will take place.

3-Year State Summative Assessment Calendar

2025-2026 Madison Balanced Assessment Calendar

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