Rezoning process begins for new schools in Madison

Site work continues for the new Journey Middle School, slated to open in 2022.

MADISON – Madison City Schools district is in the final stretch of the 2020-21 school year, which means something that fills parents hearts with dread – rezoning.

With a new elementary school set to open in time for the 2021-22 school year and a new middle the year after, school leaders are beginning the process of rezoning to fill the new campuses and elevate overcrowding throughout the district.

Superintendent of Education Dr. Ed Nichols sent an email to parents Friday updating them on the situation.
“We are in the process of creating new zoning maps for our elementary and middle schools. The elementary zones would take effect next year with the opening of Midtown Elementary,” he said. “The middle school zones would take effect in the 2022-2023 school year. Rough drafts of these new zone maps will be sent to all parents in the next few weeks. There will be a link attached to the zone message to provide written input regarding the proposed maps. After reviewing the written input, the Board will hold a public meeting to review the zone plans.”

Nichols sought to ease concerns by saying, “I am aware that any time we experience a rezoning plan, it is a very emotional change for our families. However, we are blessed that all of our schools in Madison are outstanding and provide our students a world-class education.

The $34 million Midtown Elementary is located along Wall Triana next to Kroger. Journey Middle School, which will cost $49 million, will be located behind the district’s central office on Celtic Drive.

Madison residents overwhelmingly approved a 12-mill property tax increase in September 2019 to fund the construction of the schools, plus additions at Bob Jones and James Clemens.