As a smaller school, we pride ourselves on building strong relationships—many of our students have siblings, cousins, or family friends who also attended Brown Street and found success here. With consistent staff members and a rich culture of supporting children based on their individual needs, our students feel known, valued, and encouraged every day.

In addition to excellent academic instruction, students are encouraged to develop their creativity and apply their individual talents to their daily work. Our teachers are dedicated to creating a safe, productive learning environment for all. Through a standards-based curriculum and strong PBIS practices, Brown Street ensures students receive supportive instruction while learning positive behaviors and reaching their highest potential. In addition, community volunteers regularly partner with us to support literacy and strengthen student achievement.

Brown Street Academy staff are part of a professional learning community that embraces our mission and shares common educational values. Through grade-level collaboration and ongoing professional development, staff members support one another—and go above and beyond to meet the needs of both students and families. We are proud to offer resources and support for parents, recognizing that strong partnerships help children thrive.

At Brown Street, we prepare students to be productive citizens and lifelong learners. By incorporating families into our decision-making process and fostering school pride, we continue to create a space where students, families, staff, and community members work together to achieve shared goals.

Mission

All learners are equipped with the foundation to attain their full academic and social potential through culturally responsive practices and high expectations in a compassionate and supportive environment.

History

Located at the corner of 20th and Brown, Brown Street Academy is named for the street it calls home—which itself was named after Samuel Brown. Brown’s nearby farm on Fon du Lac Avenue was a stop on the Underground Railroad, the network of secret routes and safe houses that helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom. In August 1842, the farm provided safe haven to 16-year-old Caroline Quarlls, the first documented person to escape from slavery by traveling through Wisconsin. Proudly portrayed in our lobby mural, this history reflects a legacy of courage, community, and opportunity that continues to inspire our school today.

2026 School Improvements

Exciting upgrades are coming to Brown Street! During summer 2026, our school will receive $2.7 million in building upgrades, with a refreshed and improved campus ready to welcome students in fall 2026. Renovations will include fully upgraded student bathrooms, enhanced classroom spaces, improvements to the cafeteria, and updates to outdoor areas. We look forward to a more modern, comfortable, and engaging environment for learning and community.