High standards start in weekly planning sessions that connect teachers across grade levels and subjects to review lessons and share strategies that support every child’s academic progress.
Milwaukee Public Schools implement the Ambitious Instruction Plan and Common Core State Standards.
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 masters 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.
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. Learn more about Common Core.
Math Achievement
LaFollette School uses district-wide standards and assessments in every grade. We strive to develop skills and confidence in math so students are prepared for high school. Many students attend our after-school academic enrichment program, where math and STEM opportunities like coding classes, math enrichment, and homework assistance reinforce classroom lessons.
Reading/Language Arts Achievement
Reading has always been a priority at LaFollette School. Through our Comprehensive Literacy Plan, students from K4 through fifth grade receive reading, writing, and oral language instruction for 90 minutes a day. Students in grades six through eight receive instruction for one hour daily. Older students are encouraged to become reading buddies in school and on their own time. Many students attend our after-school academic enrichment program, where literacy coaching, homework help, and family literacy nights help students become proficient readers.
Art, Music, Physical Education
LaFollette School specialist teachers provide weekly art, music, and physical education classes. Specialist teachers create engaging lessons and activities, so students can demonstrate new academic knowledge and skills, express their creativity, and move their minds and bodies.
Special Education
Nearly 20 percent of LaFollette School students receive special education accommodations or support. The school’s special education teachers, regular education teachers, school social worker, school psychologist, school support teacher, speech language pathologist, trauma support specialist, 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.