MPS/MKE Early Childhood 1,825 Initiative
The first five years—or 1,825 days—of a child's life are the most important when it comes to their education and development, which is why Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) started the MPS/MKE Early Childhood 1,825 Initiative.
Milwaukee is in the most populous county in Wisconsin and has the most children in childcare and in a single school district. Good health, strong families, and positive early learning are important building blocks in ensuring the success of all children. When any one of these building blocks is absent, a child faces an uphill struggle. Because ninety-five percent of their brain development occurs in the first five years of life, the MPS/MKE 1,825 Initiative is focusing on how we as a community can improve outcomes for our youngest learners.
Areas of Focus: Family Engagement | Health and Wellness | Academic Support
Partners and Meetings
Launched in November 2018, the initiative has grown to partner with local community organizations that are making an impact on the lives of young children. Monthly partner meetings offer an opportunity to come together and review supports and resources for Milwaukee families.
- Betty Brinn Children's Museum
- Cardinal Stritch University
- Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)
- Milwaukee PBS
- Milwaukee Succeeds
- Next Door Foundation
- Northwestern Mutual
- Saint A
- Skai Academy of the Performing Arts
- United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County
- University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
- Wisconsin Conservatory of Music
- Wisconsin Reading Corps
During these meetings, various committees meet to discuss how to best support children and families and to identify helpful events. For example, the Family Support and Transition Group is dedicated to identifying community needs, providing resources, and building public knowledge of brain development.
Upcoming Events
MPS Kindergarten Enrollment Fair
January 31, 2026 | South Division High School
Jumpstart Read for the Record
February 23, 2026 | Boxitects
Read Across America Day
March 2, 2026
Week of the Young Child (NAEYC)
April 11–17, 2026
Transition Information
To help children perform better, they need support as they transition—or move—from one school setting to another, such as moving from K4 to K5 or from preschool to elementary school. School transition is a process, and it requires skills, knowledge, and relationships to assist children and families.
MPS is dedicated to supporting this process through our staggered start scheduling. Staggered start consists of smaller class sizes for the first three days of the school year. The purpose of this format is to provide the opportunity for teachers to begin to get to know the students and their needs, as well as to explain and practice school routines and safety procedures. It also allows teachers to offer small-group lessons and activities that focus on working and playing together, following directions, and practicing self-control.
Resources for Families
Children develop very quickly in the first few years of their lives. Review milestones and tips to see what skills to look for and discover how to support your child’s development.
Find More Resources and Supports