Arts in Community Education (ACE) Program
The Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra Arts in Community Education (ACE) Program advances children’s learning through an acclaimed arts-integrated curriculum. It brings visual and performing arts to Fairview by incorporating engaging arts experiences into core subjects. Each grade level explores a theme—architects, detectives, storytellers, etc.—during artist visits, class projects, and the grand finale: attending a Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra concert just for them.
Flashlight Fridays
Once a month, Fairview students enjoy a special reading experience that fosters connections between grade levels. Older students pair up with younger students and explore books together using flashlights. This is a great way for elementary schoolers to experience the benefits of being read to and for middle schoolers to practice fluency, expression, and other aspects of adding voice.
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 (K3–grade 3) and help them explore potential careers (grades 4, 5, and 8).
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.
PLTW: Project Lead The Way
Fairview School is a leader in STEM education, offering MPS’s first comprehensive K–8 PLTW program. Learn about PLTW at Fairview.
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.