In 1977, we made history as Wisconsin’s first language immersion program. We build on this legacy by educating young learners and leaders who will thrive in global society, college, and career. MGIS students can read, write, and speak German (and English) fluently when they complete our immersion program in fifth grade.

MGIS’ total early immersion approach makes bilingualism possible for students from many language backgrounds and learning styles. Children adapt and thrive through early, everyday German-language contact and instruction. German is the only language of instruction in K4, K5 and 1st grade classrooms; English-language instruction starts in second grade. Nearly half of our faculty are native speakers, and all of our teachers are required to have both elementary education and German teaching licenses.

MGIS students use their new language in almost every lesson and exceed academic expectations in all subject areas. They expand their communication, critical thinking, and literacy skills in our Library Media Center, home to the largest collection of German-language children’s literature in North America.

As a PASCH Initiative partner, MGIS joins a global network of 2,000 schools that place a high value on German. Fifth graders take the DSD-Level A2 (Deutsche Sprachdiplom), which is a gateway to German university enrollment. Students who complete fifth grade at MGIS can continue their German-immersion education at Milwaukee School of Languages, which educates students in grades six through twelve.

As an MGIS family, you will join an active community of educators, parents, and cultural partners. Our School Engagement Council, Parent Teacher Association, and foundation welcome parents as decision-makers and volunteers. Our redeveloped schoolyard welcomes younger siblings, nurtures our neighborhood environment, and inspires STEM learning, mindfulness, and play at Pause (recess).

Give your child the gift of a world-class public education. Schedule your visit to Milwaukee German Immersion School today.

Before and After School Program

Milwaukee Recreation hosts MGIS KinderCamp, providing fully supervised before- and after-school programming that brings academic support, enrichment, and recreational opportunities to MGIS students. KinderCamp also has a summer camp for our students during the summer months. KinderCamp is now enrolling!