Children learn German because our educators teach math, science, social studies, and reading in German. Your child will develop math and literacy skills, acquire knowledge in many content areas, and become a proficient reader, writer, and speaker of German and English.

• German is the language of instruction, K4 through first grade. Students entering MGIS at grade two or above must have prior German-language experience.
• English-language instruction starts in second-grade English Language Arts. German remains the language of instruction in all other subjects.
• Grades 2 – 5 follow either an 80/20 or 90/10 model – learning 80-90 percent of their material in German and the remainder in English.

Immersive, Standards-Based Academics

An MGIS education combines high-quality, German-language instruction, a standards-based curriculum, and art, music, and physical education classes.

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 lives and experiences. Our staff works together to understand each learner and find appropriate ways to assess and improve their progress. We then 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.

Reading Language Arts

Teachers provide 90 minutes of high-quality reading, writing, and oral language instruction per school day. Through Act 20: Milwaukee Reads, students from K5 to third grade receive evidence-based instruction, assessments, and personalized interventions as needed to develop into proficient, confident readers.

Children build literacy skills by exploring texts from diverse genres and cultures using technology and online learning tools. Students develop critical thinking abilities and learn to express complex ideas in their own voice when writing, speaking, or performing.

Act 20: Milwaukee Reads

Teaching students to read requires skill and science. Act 20: Milwaukee Reads takes a science-based approach to literacy from K4 to third grade. Students are screened and receive additional support as needed to strengthen early-literacy skills like combining letters and sounds to create words, building vocabulary, and reading and writing with expression and clarity. Act 20: Milwaukee Reads support includes evidence-based instruction, assessments, and a personal reading plan so students become capable, confident readers.

Math

Educators implement effective teaching practices so students learn, practice, and apply critical math skills in standards-based lessons. Grade-level standards and assessments help students accumulate mathematical knowledge and skills that prepare them for success in middle and high school.

Art, Music, and Physical Education

Art, music, and physical education specialist teachers enrich students’ education. Children at MGIS learn to play a variety of musical instruments. They take part in games and physical activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. Art class is an exploration of other artists’ work and an opportunity to practice various artistic techniques.

Social and Emotional Learning

Educating the whole child means providing equal opportunities so all MGIS students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Teachers develop classroom routines and model healthy communication and calming skills to help students feel secure in school, manage the big emotions of childhood, and refocus on lessons when necessary.

Special Education

MPS serves all children with disabilities, including cognitive, physical, emotional, learning, hearing, vision, and speech disabilities. Our special education teachers, regular education teachers, school social worker, school psychologist, 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.