About MPS

Milwaukee Public Schools is a diverse district that welcomes all students and prepares them for success in higher education, post-educational opportunities, work, and citizenship.

Milwaukee Public Schools will be among the highest-student-growth school systems in the country. All district staff will be committed to providing an equitable educational environment that is child-centered, supports achievement, and respects and embraces diversity. Schools will be safe, welcoming, well-maintained, and accessible community centers that meet the needs of all. Relevant, rigorous, and successful instructional programs will be recognized and replicated. The district and its schools will collaborate with students, families, and community for the benefit of all. 

• Students come first.  
• Wherever students are learning is the most important place in the district.  
• Educators and school staffs have high expectations for all students and provide the foundation for their academic success.  
• Leadership, educator development, and child-driven, data-informed decision making are keys to student achievement.  
• Equity drives all district decision making.  
• Involved families are integral to increasing student achievement.  
• Student voice is encouraged and respected.  
• Quality community partnerships add value.  
• Increased operational and financial efficiencies are consistently pursued to support learning opportunities for our students.  
• Central Services supports student achievement, efficient and effective operations, and student, family, and community engagement.  
• Public education provides the cornerstone of American democracy. 

From Milwaukee Public Library

“Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) was created in 1846. In its early years, most of the schools in the system were grades 1-8; kindergartens and high schools came later. A Board of School Directors provides leadership and oversight, with a superintendent heading the system. Members for the board were originally selected by the Milwaukee Common Council, but are now publicly elected. The first superintendent was Rufus King, who was chosen in 1859.”