Healthy and Sustainable Schools
To enhance the quality of life for Milwaukee’s students and the entire community, Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has committed to property improvements, sustainable practices, and environmental education that will conserve resources, contribute to a healthier city, and develop students who are aware and proactive about caring for their world.
The true impact of this work is multiplied when coupled with student involvement that develops skills, grows knowledge, and instills a sense of responsibility for the planet. Student participation in recycling, waste reduction, composting, and other efforts is a key component in helping to build a generation of children who are prepared to care for the Earth and find solutions for the future.
Board Resolutions
Since 2020, the Milwaukee Board of School Directors adopted three resolutions to formalize and expand support for green initiatives in MPS:
- March 2020: “Our House is on Fire” (Resolution 1920R-016)
- June 2022: “Uniting with the City and County to Meet Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Climate Justice Targets” (Resolution 2223R-007)
- March 2023: “Green Revolving Fund” (Resolution 2223R-019)
These resolutions are designed to acknowledge the climate crisis, develop an action plan for the district, integrate climate education into our K–12 curriculum, set a carbon emissions reduction target, and establish a mechanism to fund sustainable projects.
Sustainability Action Plan
In January 2025, MPS entered into a partnership with Green Schools National Network (GSNN) to assist in developing the district’s first sustainability action plan. The plan focuses on four impact systems: facilities and operations, curriculum and instruction, leadership, and culture and community. It serves as a roadmap to healthy and sustainable schools and represents a bold vision for our future.
Climate and Energy
MPS acknowledges that the impacts of climate change require urgent action at all levels. The district is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by adopting reduction targets and investigating the implementation of clean energy technologies as well as energy conservation measures.
Green Schoolyards
Playgrounds across MPS are greener and healthier thanks to our partnerships. Each year, we work with Reflo, the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District, the City of Milwaukee, and generous funders to transform five MPS schoolyards. These beautiful green spaces enhance the student experience, improve the community, and mitigate stormwater runoff.
Explore Our Schoolyard Redevelopment Projects
Air Quality
MPS strives to maintain indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools to the highest possible standard. Through several key partnerships, MPS monitors both indoor and outdoor air quality. We also educate students, teachers, and our community about air quality.
Discover Our Partnerships and Programs
Teaching and Learning
At MPS, we provide students with opportunities to connect with the world around them. We believe that all students should have access to learning that fosters environmentally conscious leaders of tomorrow.
Learn About Our Curriculum and Resources
More Information
If you have any questions, please contact:
Chelsea Malacara, Sustainability Project Specialist
Email: malacac@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 288-4725
Heather Dietzel, Sustainability Project Specialist
Email: dietzehm@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 283-4713
Kimberly Talarico, Climate Education Coach
Email: leitzkka@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 267-1896