This means students are first instructed in their native language to develop strong literacy skills in Spanish—before they learn English. An English as a Second Language (ESL) Specialist provides support as students begin informal English language instruction.

Individual students learn languages at different rates. Because of this, we believe there is not an approach that fits all students. While one student may be ready for formal English language instruction in the middle of second grade, another may not be ready until third grade. We tailor students’ instruction to match the pace of their language development.

In each of the primary grade levels (kindergarten to second grade), the amount of English instruction increases each year. Students eventually reach a 50/50 level in third grade that continues throughout their time at ALBA. This means they alternate between one week of instruction in English and one week in Spanish.

Our school’s goal is to develop bilingual learners, so students continue to receive reading instruction in both languages. To truly be bilingual, they must maintain their Spanish skills throughout elementary school.

For more information, please see ALBA’s Language Policy.

Ambitious Instruction Plan

The Milwaukee Public Schools Ambitious Instruction Plan recognizes and celebrates that our students come from many cultures and backgrounds. This plan focuses on high-quality, culturally appropriate teaching and learning. Our goal is to ensure that every student develops reading, writing, and math skills in ways that are meaningful to their individual lives and experiences. Our staff works together to understand each learner and find appropriate ways to assess and improve their progress. We then make sure that students can apply what they have learned in productive ways in school and in their community.

Common Core State Standards

The curriculum in Milwaukee Public Schools is based on Common Core State Standards. These standards were developed with teachers, school administrators, and experts to prepare all children for college and the workforce.

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

The International Baccalaureate PYP for children ages 3 to 12 nurtures and develops young students as caring, active participants in a lifelong journey of learning.

Special Education

MPS serves all children with disabilities, including cognitive, emotional, hearing, learning, physical, speech, and vision disabilities. The school’s special education teachers, regular education teachers, school social worker, school psychologist, and administration work together to meet students’ needs.

If you think your child has special education needs, ask your child’s teacher or principal for an evaluation. For more information, please review the ALBA Special Needs Policy. For general questions about special education or specialized services, please call (414) 874-8493.