Autism

Burbank School is an autism services site for Milwaukee Public Schools. Our program serves K4 through eighth-grade students in three specialized classrooms that support students’ academic, social, and life skills development.

Every child has the right to learn, grow, and contribute to their community, and transition goals are built into the curriculum to help prepare students for life after school. Lessons focus on functional reading, writing, language arts, science, and social studies skills, and our teaching team incorporates community-based activities to help students practice and apply these skills.

Students in our autism program can also participate in Special Olympics events, such as basketball, bocce, bowling, and track and field.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

The English as a Second Language program at Burbank provides language instruction to students with limited English proficiency. As students become proficient in English and learn more about the United States, they are also guided to preserve and embrace their native culture and heritage.

Milwaukee Art Museum Junior Docent School Program

The Milwaukee Art Museum Junior Docent School Program invites students in grades three through five to explore the visual arts during ten visits to the Milwaukee Art Museum. This personalized, three-year course of study teaches vocabulary and history, and students develop cultural and historical awareness. They earn “Junior Docent” status after selecting, researching, and presenting a favorite item from the museum’s collection!

MPS Learning Journeys

Learning Journeys are educational field trips for all MPS students that are designed to put content-based instruction into practice. Learn more about Learning Journeys, including this year’s programs.

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.

Tutoring

Reading Corps members help Burbank students become stronger readers through daily tutoring sessions. Tutors meet one-on-one or in pairs to provide extra practice, track student progress, and build students’ skills and confidence.