Arts in Community Education (ACE) Program

The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO)’s Arts in Community Education (ACE) Program brings MSO musicians, fellow artists, lesson plans, and learning materials to Ninety-Fifth Street School. Kindergarteners through fifth graders participate in ACE programming, and they attend an MSO concert just for them at the Bradley Symphony Center.

Band Lessons (Grades 2–5)

We offer lessons during the school day for the following instruments:

• Clarinet
• Piano
• Violin

Danceworks Mad Hot Rhythm

Danceworks Mad Hot Rhythm inspires our students to move their bodies and work together to create performing art. Participation in Mad Hot Rhythm boosts self-confidence and creativity, promotes respect, and teaches children that creative movement feels great!

KidsWrites (Grades 4–5)

At 95th Street School, our fourth and fifth graders can participate in KidsWrites, Skylight Music Theatre’s creative writing program. The program engages more than 1,500 elementary and middle schoolers across the district each year. Students are invited to write original stories and songs inspired by an annual theme. Skylight’s team of professional composers, directors, and performers then brings these imaginative creations to life in a vibrant theatrical revue—written by kids, for kids.

Learning Journeys

Learning Journeys are educational field trips for all MPS students that are designed to take what students are learning in the classroom out into the real world. These annual opportunities aim to expand students’ career awareness (K4–grade 3) and help them explore potential careers (grades 4 and 5).

Neighborhood Environmental Education Project (NEEP) at the Urban Ecology Center

Students visit the Urban Ecology Center (UEC) for field experiences. Through UEC’s Neighborhood Environmental Education Project (NEEP), classes visit local green spaces to learn from UEC educators through hands-on activities. Students may explore local habitats, identify plants, find signs of animal life, or even build forts with classmates! Every trip has a portion outdoors and is engaging for all students and chaperones. All three centers have outerwear available to borrow for all participants to explore in any weather.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

To promote positive student behavior and improve learning, MPS uses a system of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

PBIS is a three-tiered approach that begins by teaching expectations and encouraging collaboration and consistency in classrooms. Teachers and students co-design agreements and routines that align with three districtwide expectations: “Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Responsible.” For students who need more support, higher tiers offer structure, interventions, and follow-up to address specific concerns.

After years of use, MPS and other districts across the country are reporting higher student achievement, improved school environments, and fewer classroom disruptions and student suspensions.

United Nations Schools of International Learning (UNSIL)

UNSIL is a revolutionary curriculum program that combines Model United Nations and World Studies at select MPS elementary and middle schools. Fourth- and fifth-grade students develop research, writing, and presentation skills while studying world affairs and current events. In addition to learning about other countries, cultures, and international relationships, students gain experience in debate, negotiation, and conflict resolution—all of which are transferable to college and career.