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Early Learning

At Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), we develop young minds through our early learning programs, resources, and supports.

The first three years of your child’s life are a critical time when they take the first steps toward developing individual skills, talents, and attitudes. Young children are learning every day—and building the foundation for ongoing achievement throughout their educational careers.

MPS wants your child to become an enthusiastic learner at the start of their education, which is why we promote and provide high-quality programming in our early learning classrooms. Our resources and services are developmentally, linguistically, and culturally appropriate, as well as responsive to the needs of all children and families within our community. MPS is committed to developing the whole child to ensure that every student is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. 
 

Early Learning at MPS: Age Requirements

MPS offers kindergarten enrollment to students beginning at age three. Enrollment is determined based on a child’s birthday and dependent upon the availability of seats in K3 to K5 classrooms.

  • K3: Under state law, children may but are not required to enter K3 if they have turned three years old on or before September 1. There are limited seats available for K3, so signing up during the enrollment window is encouraged. 
  • K4: To enter K4, children must be four years old on or before September 1. 
  • K5: To enter K5, children must be five years old on or before September 1. Children born between September 2 and October 1 can be tested for early admission to K5 only (not K3 or K4). Early admissions information is available at any MPS elementary school.
     

Mandatory Kindergarten Law

The State of Wisconsin requires students to complete K5 before entering first grade. Schools may not enroll a child in first grade unless that child has completed five-year-old kindergarten. This rule applies to all Wisconsin schools, including charter schools.

For more information on MPS kindergarten enrollment or the Mandatory Kindergarten Law, please call (414) 475-8448.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)