Project STAY offers multiple pathways and programs to help at-risk students reach graduation and prepare for future success.
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.
Alternative Education Pathways
Students at Project STAY can choose to participate in one of three pathways to earn a high school diploma:
1. Traditional Classes
Three options to fit student schedules
8–14 credits per year
Students enroll in classes with Project STAY teachers in order to fulfill graduation requirements. Core subjects include English/Language Arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and world languages. We also offer classes on business and restorative practices for elective credit.
Students can choose from a half-day (morning or afternoon) or full-day schedule.
- Half-Day: 8:00 to 11:13 a.m. OR 12:15 to 3:25 p.m.
6 credits per year - Full-Day: 8:00 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
12 credits per year
In addition, all students can earn up to two (2) credits per year through internships or youth apprenticeships. Credits earned through work programs count as elective credits and do not replace core academic requirements.
2. GED Option #2
GED exams to earn credit
Students who are 17 years old and demonstrate a ninth-grade reading level can participate in GED Option #2. This program allows students to take exams instead of classes to earn high school credit. Students also complete a career readiness portfolio to help transition to life beyond high school.
3. Competency-Based Learning
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Project completion to earn credit
Students who are 17 years old and demonstrate a reading level below ninth grade can participate in competency-based learning. These project/activity-based courses allow students to show proficiency and earn credit at their own pace to complete graduation requirements.
To learn more about these three pathways, contact our school’s counseling department or the district’s Office of Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO).
Career and Technical Education
Students can earn high school and college credit, develop workforce-ready trade and technical skills, and participate in internships and apprenticeships.
Internships
Project STAY students who participate in an MPS internship are employed for a specific period to learn about a particular industry or occupation.
School-to-Work Transition Program
Youth Apprenticeship Program
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
To promote positive student behavior and improve learning, MPS uses a system of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
PBIS is a three-tiered approach that begins by teaching expectations and encouraging collaboration and consistency in classrooms. Teachers and students co-design agreements and routines that align with three districtwide expectations: “Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Responsible.” For students who need more support, higher tiers offer structure, interventions, and follow-up to address specific concerns.
After years of use, MPS and other districts across the country are reporting higher student achievement, improved school environments, and fewer classroom disruptions and student suspensions.
Pregnant & Parenting Youth Program (PPYP)
The MPS Pregnant and Parenting Youth Program (PPYP) is for young fathers and mothers who are currently in school. The program aims to improve the academics, social/emotional well-being, and overall wellness of school-age parents and their children. The goals of the program are to:
- Improve attendance and graduation rates
- Increase teen enrollment in higher education
- Share effective parenting practices
- Provide information about and support healthy relationships
- Enhance coordination of school and community services
Special Education
MPS serves all children with disabilities, including cognitive, emotional, hearing, learning, physical, speech, and vision disabilities. The school’s 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.