Grades 6 - 8

Rufus King International Middle School

Grades 6 - 8

Rufus King International Middle School

Grades 6 - 8

Rufus King International Middle School

Families

Resources

MPS Forms
MPS Family Academic Resources
MPS Parent/Student Handbook
Milwaukee Area Guide to Community Resources (PDF)
Parents and caregivers are a child’s first teacher, and Rufus King International Middle School depends on your partnership at every stage of your child’s learning journey.

In fact, research shows that when family members are involved in their child’s school — as decision-makers, volunteers, and advocates — school performance and culture are stronger.

We implement Milwaukee Public Schools Family & Community Engagement framework so families and staff can collaborate to support individual student achievement and overall school progress.

Parent and Family Resources

Parent Coordinator S. Hullum Martin runs the Rufus King International Middle School Parent Center and our School Engagement Council. Parents and family members can connect with our parent coordinator at hullumsc@milwaukee.k12.wi.us or (414) 616-5226. The Parent Center is in room 100B and is open 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on school days.

Parent and Family Engagement Opportunities

Scholars shine and families connect through school traditions and awards events. We celebrate our International Baccalaureate (IB) scholars during twice-yearly award galas and honor breakfasts. Open house events every fall and spring, our annual IB Math and Literacy Night, and annual Black History Program also welcome current and future Rufus King families.

School Engagement Council (SEC)

Join our SEC to learn about Rufus King International Middle School attendance, budget, and academic goals. Families and staff meet at 2 p.m. the final Thursday of each month — unless otherwise noted — to review our school’s progress. SEC members make decisions and revise plans to support students as they work toward their goals.

District Advisory Council (DAC)

Families can stay informed on and share ideas about the district’s Title I programs and priorities during monthly council meetings. Each school sends two delegates to meetings; alternates may attend as well.

Communicating with Your Child’s Teacher

Students feel extra motivated when teachers and parents work together to reinforce high expectations and positive learning strategies.

Rufus King International Middle School teachers send progress reports home and hold parent-teacher conferences — one each fall and spring. Teachers and staff are ready to help with extra meetings or reports.

Here are some tips for building a strong parent-teacher relationship and staying up to date on school news and family events.

  • Collect current school and teacher contact information at the beginning of each school year. Gather this information from teacher handouts, during open-house events, or visit our staff directory.
  • Sign up for Campus Parent Portal to receive real time updates on your child’s progress in school.
  • Join SchoolMessenger, a digital communication app we use to easily, quickly communicate with families.
  • Attend parent-teacher conferences. If conference days and times don’t work for you, ask your child’s teacher if you can schedule a virtual appointment or phone call.
  • Sign up for the MPS Family Friday Newsletter and our Rufus King International Middle School Newsletter.

Supporting Your Child During the School Day

Family involvement can lead to better grades, better attendance, improved test scores, higher self-esteem, and better behavior for children. Supporting your child’s success at Rufus King International Middle School includes:

  • Making sure your child arrives at school on time every day (9:05 a.m.).
  • Calling the attendance line when your child will be absent, at (414) 616-5200. We must be sure every student has arrived safely and follow up with any who are absent. We must also record absences correctly.
  • Completing your Milwaukee Public Schools volunteer application to become a Rufus King International Middle School volunteer.

Supporting Your Child’s Education at Home

Routine and structure at home can keep your child focused on learning and can be enriching for the entire family. By caring for your child’s physical, emotional, and mental health, you are ensuring that your child is ready to succeed in school.

  • Help your child with homework. At home, have a quiet time and place for homework.
  • Encourage your child to read every day.
  • Ensure your child gets the proper amount of sleep every night.
  • Make sure your child is eating right. It is important that our students be prepared to take on their day.
  • Reach out. We collaborate with parents and families to build a strong support network for our students. If you would like to talk to a school counselor, psychologist, or social worker, please let us know.