Together, we pursue an engaging and well-rounded K-8 academic program that follows academic standards, is supported by community partners, and prepares our youth for high school, college, career, and citizenship.

Common Core State Standards

The curriculum in Milwaukee Public Schools is based on Common Core State Standards. These standards were developed with teachers, school administrators, and experts to prepare all children for college and the workforce.

Ambitious Instruction Plan

The Milwaukee Public Schools Ambitious Instruction Plan recognizes and celebrates that our students come from many cultures and backgrounds. This plan focuses on high-quality, culturally appropriate teaching and learning. Our goal is to ensure that every student develops reading, writing, and math skills in ways that are meaningful to their individual life and experiences. Our staff works together to understand each learner, find appropriate ways to assess and improve their progress, and make sure that students can apply what they have learned in productive ways in school and in their community.

Reading/Language Arts Achievement

Literacy is a priority at Holmes School. Students from K4 through fifth grade are taught reading, writing, and oral language for 90 minutes a day, and students in grades six through eight are taught for 60 minutes daily. Partnerships with nonprofits like HeyTutor and Wisconsin Reading Corps can provide one-on-one and small-group tutoring during the school day.

Math Achievement

Teachers follow best practices, academic standards, and bring new teaching-and-learning technologies and strategies into the classroom so students learn, practice, and apply critical math skills. Partnerships with nonprofits like HeyTutor and Wisconsin Reading Corps can provide one-on-one and small-group tutoring during the school day.

Older students access emerging technologies and explore creativity in two STEM laboratories (science, technology, engineering, math) at Holmes School: the Verizon Innovative Learning Lab and Project Lead The Way Laboratory. Founded by national leaders in STEM innovation and education and generously funded by donors, educational experiences in both laboratories align with academic standards and inspire our students to consider STEM careers.

Art, Music, Physical Education

Specialist teachers lead weekly art, music, and physical education classes so students can explore mind-body wellness, find their creative voice and vision — even build on math and literacy skills — and perform at school events and community concerts.

Special Education

Nearly 30 percent of our students receive special education accommodations or support. The school’s special education teachers, regular education teachers, school social worker, school psychologist, school support teacher, and administration work together to meet students’ needs.

If you think your child has special education needs, ask your child’s teacher or principal for an evaluation. For general questions about special education or specialized services, please call (414) 874-8493, or learn more about Specialized Services.