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Multilingual and Multicultural Education

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) offers diverse learning opportunities that are available for all multilingual and multicultural learners.

The cultural and linguistic diversity of the students we serve is one of our greatest assets. We strive to create quality learning environments that respect, reflect, and strengthen diversity.

What We Offer

Overview

We provide the following services and support:

  • World languages classes in every high school
  • Four language immersion schools (French, German, Italian, Spanish)
  • More than 12,000 English learner students speaking 90 distinct languages as of 2025
  • 21 schools with bilingual dual language and English for multilingual learners (EML) programming
  • 27 schools with EML stand-alone programming
  • District Multilingual Multicultural Advisory Committee, which advises MPS on language acquisition and culturally relevant programs
  • Academic support and cultural enrichment for Native American students (First Nations Studies)
    • K–8 program in seven schools
    • College Access Program in 11 schools
    • Act 31 support and resources for all schools
       

Bilingual Dual Language Program

The Bilingual Dual Language Program (one-way and two-way) prepares students to become literate in English and Spanish through the use of biliteracy practices that promote and facilitate the development of two languages.

English for Multilingual Learners (EML) Program 

Also known as English as a Second Language

This is a program of techniques, methodology, and special curriculum designed to teach English learner students communication skills in listening, reading, and viewing as well as speaking, writing, and representing. Instruction is in English and may include strategic connections to students' native language. The program orients students to the social and cultural aspects of learning in a school setting.

Discover MPS Quick Reference Guides that provide information about cultures of various countries to better support students and families.

First Nations Studies

The purpose of the First Nations Studies program is to meet the unique educational and culturally related academic needs of our First Nations students in MPS so that they can achieve at the same challenging state standards as all students.

Language Immersion Programs

Immersion school programs offer core content taught in the target language during all or part of the day. Students become functionally proficient, master subject content taught in the new language, and acquire an understanding of and appreciation for other cultures.

Lau Compliance Center

Staff members at the Lau Compliance Center enroll children who speak a home language other than English and screen students for ESL services.

Newcomer Program

The Newcomer Program is a special program for students who have just moved to the United States. It is for students who have limited or interrupted schooling, which means they might not have gone to school regularly in the past. Enrollment includes grades six through 12. 

Students in the program get help with:

  • Schoolwork (academics): Getting extra support to catch up in all subjects
  • Language development: Learning English
  • Social and emotional learning: Adjusting to a new place and new school
  • Preparation: Getting ready to join classes with other students

Staff from the Lau Compliance Center talk to families to learn more about the student's school history and language background. Students can join the Newcomer Program only with their parents' permission. If a student qualifies to join, MPS staff tells the family about the International Newcomer Centers for middle and high schoolers. 

Seal of Biliteracy

The Wisconsin Seal of Biliteracy is an industry-recognized credential awarded to students who have attained proficiency in English and one or more additional languages by high school graduation.

World Languages Program

The World Languages Program prepares all students to be multilingual, culturally competent, respectful, and responsible citizens of an interconnected, more peaceful world.
 

More Information

If you have any questions, please contact: 

Sarah Borges, English for Multilingual Learners Specialist
Email: borgess@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 475-8732

Solmaris González Chico, World Languages/Language Immersion Program Specialist
Email: gonzals1@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 777-7827

Alyssa Mussa, First Nations Studies Specialist
Email: unolda@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 902-7313

Dra. Lucía Torres, Bilingual Dual Language Program Specialist
Email: torresli@milwaukee.k12.wi.us
Phone: (414) 475-8093