General Info
Built in 1960, Walter C. Polson Middle School (PKA Hand High School) was originally built to serve as the town's primary high school, with expansive renovations to accommodate growth in the 70s/80s . Today, it serves grades 6 - 8. In 2026, Polson received an HVAC, auditorium, and roof upgrade as the final phase of the Madison Public Schools Renewal initiative.
Walter C. Polson - Dedicated Educator & Coach
Walter C. "Pop" Polson (1902-1987) served as an employee of the Madison Board of Education from 1926 to 1968. During that period, he earned the love and respect of his students and community. He served as a teacher of grades 7 and 8, teaching math, social studies, and penmanship. Polson was very active in the school's athletic program, including soccer, baseball, and basketball, and was instrumental in starting a six-man football team on the shoreline.
During WWII, Polson volunteered for service in the U.S. Army, serving in Africa. After the war, he returned to his teaching duties.
In 1958, he was appointed principal of Island Avenue School (now, OLM Prep), giving him the honor of being Madison's first Elementary School Principal. He retired from that position in 1968, remaining in Madison until his death in 1987.
Al Miller, Class of 1938, recollected in 2008:
"Pop" Polson was my basketball coach and a good teacher. His wife taught here, too. During the Depression, if someone couldn't afford gym shoes, they 'magically' appeared on that family's doorstep. At the time, no one knew the gift was from "Pop".
Adapted from January 30, 2003 memo from Warner Lord, BOE Chairperson, to Superintendent of Schools, H. Kaye Griffin