Lincoln Avenue School Updates

Learn about the future of Lincoln Avenue School following a building fire—and discover ways to support the school community.

In the early morning of June 30, 2026, an accidental fire broke out at Lincoln Avenue School. No one was in the building at the time, and we are grateful that no one was hurt. Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is tremendously thankful for the quick response and hard work of the Milwaukee Fire Department and Milwaukee Police Department, who provided additional assistance.

Looking Ahead: 2026–27 School Year

Due to major structural damage to the building, the city has determined that it must be torn down. MPS is currently requesting bids to identify a partner to demolish the building. It is too soon to know whether it will be rebuilt at this time.

For the upcoming school year, the Lincoln Avenue School Engagement Council recommended that the full K3–5 school community move to Casimir Pulaski High School (25th and Oklahoma). This was the closest option (1.5 miles away) that allowed everyone to remain together in one location. Staying together was a top priority shared by families and staff, and this option received positive feedback from both groups during community meetings.

At Pulaski, Lincoln Avenue students and staff will have separate entrances and exits, offices, a cafeteria, and beautiful green spaces. The bell schedule is expected to remain the same, and all programs and supports for students at Lincoln Avenue will be available at Pulaski.

Find More Info for Families

Supporting the Lincoln Avenue Community

The Lincoln Avenue community received an outpouring of donated supplies after the fire, fully meeting the immediate needs for the new school year. While MPS is no longer accepting donated supplies, you can make a direct, tax-deductible contribution through the MPS Foundation (select “Lincoln Avenue Elementary School Fund”). The funds will first be used to support the school’s classroom and teacher needs. Additional areas of need will be determined by school leaders as we work to support the school now and in the future.

For more information about supporting Lincoln Avenue, please contact Christy Stone, director of Strategic Partnerships and Customer Service, at stoneca@milwaukeepublicschools.org.
 

Improving Safety Across MPS

The Milwaukee Fire Department’s investigation determined that the fire began with rags containing chemicals stored in a plastic garbage can. MPS has since updated procedures and provided training to reduce the risk of this happening again:

• Rags containing oils or other chemicals must be placed in approved metal containers at the end of every shift. 
• Application of oil-based chemicals must be limited to days when the temperature is below 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
• All fire doors must be closed, room doors must be closed and secured, and windows must be closed where required at the end of each shift. 

Going forward, MPS will continue to take any necessary actions to keep schools safe.