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Alternative Education

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) offers several options to support graduation for students facing challenges in completing credits who are at risk of not graduating.

All MPS students who meet qualifications are eligible. City of Milwaukee residents who do not attend MPS should call (414) 475-8159 to discuss placement and enrollment.

Program Options for High School Completion

Competency-Based Program

Select MPS high schools offer project/activity-based courses so students can show proficiency and earn credit. Students retain all previous credits earned and work at their own pace to complete graduation requirements. Successful completion results in a high school diploma. Daily attendance in either a morning or afternoon session is required.

Qualifications

  • Students who demonstrate a reading level of 4.5 to 8.9
  • Students who are 17 years of age and behind in credits 
     

Credit Recovery

Credit recovery is built into a student’s daily schedule to allow for on-time graduation. Students must be enrolled in an MPS high school during the traditional school year to take part. Students who need to complete more than four courses for credit recovery should consider one of the other alternative education programs.

Qualifications

  • Students in grades 9–12 who have earned a D or U in up to three courses
  • Students who need to catch up to graduate on time
     

GED Option #2 (GEDO #2)

GED Option #2 allows students to take exams instead of earning high school credits. Students retain any earned credits and work to pass GED tests for subjects in which they lack credits. Students complete a career readiness portfolio to help transition to life beyond high school. Program completion results in a high school diploma. Daily attendance in either a morning or afternoon session is required.

Qualifications

  • Students who can demonstrate a ninth-grade reading level
  • Students who are 17 years of age and behind in credits 
     

MATC Emerging Scholars Program

The Emerging Scholars Program is an alternative education option that allows students to accelerate on credits, graduate from high school, and take coursework as preparation for certain technical careers. Instruction takes place at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).

Qualifications

  • Students in grades 9–12 who are age 16 or older and meet program criteria
  • Specific program criteria and career areas
     

Wisconsin Challenge Academy

Challenge Academy is a live-in program at Fort McCoy (near Tomah, WI) that lasts five and a half months. In a structured environment, students focus on academics, physical fitness, leadership, life skills, citizenship, and more. Students return to their MPS school to complete high school and graduate. Sessions begin in January and June.

Qualifications

  • Students who are between 16.5 and 18 years old at the time of enrollment
  • Students who are one year or more behind in credits