Supporting students’ academic performance, classroom engagement, college and career goals, and overall well-being are the focus of Bay View High School’s evidence-based programs.
3DE
2025 BizTimes Media Nonprofit Excellence Award: Innovation in Education
3DE is a competency-based curriculum designed by Junior Achievement to introduce students to the higher-order thinking required for workplace success. In the 3DE model—available in only two MPS high schools—teachers and students are grouped into small cohorts to build a sense of connection and trust. 3DE coursework is interconnected through different subjects and supported by an interdisciplinary team of five to eight teachers.
Through this program, our ninth, tenth, and eleventh graders engage with local and national businesses to work through unique challenges created just for them. 3DE encourages student collaboration through small group discussions and facilitated debates. This approach boosts social and emotional skills, gives students an active role in their learning, and closely mimics the real world to more fully prepare students for a future in the workforce.
Black & Latino Male Achievement
MPS’s Department of Black & Latino Male Achievement works to improve the outcomes of Black and Latino male students at our school. The department challenges systems, structures, and spaces of oppression and also seeks to create conditions that promote greater success. Through this initiative, our students meet to talk about character development and leadership opportunities.
College Access
First Nations Studies College Access Program
The First Nations Studies College Access Program prepares Native American students to transition through high school and beyond. Students receive social and emotional support, enrichment, and guidance. Customized support includes tutoring, college tours, opportunities for career exploration, and more.
PEOPLE
PEOPLE is the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Precollege Enrichment Opportunity Program for Learning Excellence. It is designed to help students progress toward high school graduation and prepare for an enriching college experience. Beginning in ninth grade, accepted students are assigned a Precollege Advisor to assist them throughout their educational journey. Ninety-four percent of PEOPLE high school graduates enroll in higher education.
TRIO & Pre-College at UW–Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s TRIO & Pre-College Programs promote academic excellence in high school and support college access for first-generation, low-income, and other underrepresented students. Eligible MPS students who participate will receive access to educational resources, services, and opportunities, including tutoring, academic skill development, college visits, and residential experiences.
Design
- Computer Applications in Art
- Image Technology
- Video Technology
Bay View’s Design program has grown rapidly in popularity. As freshmen, students begin by taking Computer Applications in Art. This course is designed to introduce them to the creative potential of the computer through the context of art and design, combining traditional and digital design practices. It provides the opportunity to explore media-based software and learn to use a variety of digital painting, drawing, typographic, and desktop publishing programs. Students can go on to take Image Technology and Video Technology classes to further explore their interests in design and prepare for careers in the industry.
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.
Violence Free Zone (VFZ)
Bay View participates in the Violence Free Zone (VFZ) program. VFZ Youth Advisors build relationships with our students, including those who struggle with social-emotional skills like conflict management. Advisors are mature young adults who are from the same neighborhoods and overcame some of the same challenges our students experience today. This allows them to gain students’ trust and respect to successfully serve as mentors, conflict resolvers, and positive role models both in and out of school.