Supporting students’ academic performance, classroom engagement, college and career goals, and overall well-being are the focus of these evidence-based programs in place at Gaenslen School:

Achievement Gap Reduction (AGR) Program

The AGR program provides intensive academic and instructional support to Wisconsin schools working to close the achievement gap between kindergarten through third-grade students from low-income backgrounds and students in the same grade and subject statewide. Milwaukee Public Schools that receive AGR funding implement key strategies in their kindergarten through third-grade classrooms:

• Small class sizes of 18:1 or 30:2
• one−to−one tutoring provided by a licensed teacher
• instructional coaching for teachers provided by a licensed teacher

Danceworks Mad Hot Rhythm (MHR)

Danceworks Mad Hot Rhythm inspires our students to move their bodies and work together to create performing art. Participation in Mad Hot Rhythm helps our students boost their self-confidence and creativity, respect and work well with others, and learn that creative movement feels great!

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

Milwaukee Public Schools uses the evidence-based PBIS framework to promote positive student behavior. After years of use, districts across the country – MPS included – are reporting increases in student achievement, more positive school environments, and fewer classroom disruptions and disciplinary referrals.

PBIS uses a three-tiered approach. Tier one teaches expectations to all students and promotes collaboration and consistency in the classroom: Teachers and students co-design agreements and routines that align with school expectations. Tiers two and three provide structure, interventions and follow up for students who need more support.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Project Lead The Way supports our teachers in incorporating project-based math, science and technology learning, and encourages every child to explore — and believe they can succeed in — jobs in technology and engineering fields. Learn more at mpsmke.com/pltw.

Junior Achievement of Wisconsin

We have a strong partnership with the  Junior Achievement of Wisconsin program, which inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. Junior Achievement of Wisconsin provides activities, guides, thought leadership and other resources to support age-appropriate learning about leadership, jobs, money and more. Lessons are organized according to the Milwaukee Public Schools Social Studies curriculum and are implemented in K5 classrooms, continuing through eighth grade.