How to Select a School
Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) offers strong academic programs across the city, and your choice of school depends on your child and your family’s needs.
Every school is staffed with dedicated, licensed, highly qualified teachers and administrators who are committed to the personal success of your child. There is a wide array of schools to choose from, and families often consider three main factors: type of school, programs offered, and transportation.
Type of School
- Neighborhood schools (also called attendance area schools) give priority for acceptance to children who live near the school. (Children from other neighborhoods are admitted if seats are available.) A neighborhood school is the best choice for many families since it allows children to walk to school (if desired) and is convenient for daily transportation, school events, and proximity to classmates.
- Specialty schools offer special programs or areas of study, such as the arts, gifted and talented, International Baccalaureate, language immersion, Montessori, and much more.
- Charter schools operate with greater independence than other schools. Some charter schools have their own application or enrollment process.
- Alternative schools offer a path to success for students who may face specific challenges or require more flexibility than a traditional school setting, including students at risk of dropping out.
Specialty Schools and Programs
Specialty schools offer specialty programs. Learn more about some of the programs offered by MPS, then visit a school’s website to discover the specific programs that are available.
- Advanced academics
- Arts
- Career and technical education
- Dual language, English as a Second Language (ESL), and language immersion
- Early learning
- Other programs, including Black and Latino Male Achievement (BLMA), Learning Journeys, PLTW, and much more
Transportation
MPS provides safe, reliable, efficient bus services for students. Transportation is available based on many factors, including a student’s special education status, the type of school, and the student’s home address. School buses may be available for your child depending on their age, services needed, or the distance to their school.
Learn More About Getting to School
School Finder
To best meet every child’s needs, families may select from schools across the district. To search, use our School Finder Map.
This Google Map allows you to look for schools based on available programs, athletic opportunities, and more.
School Visits
You can always call or email any school you are interested in to ask questions, or you can schedule an in-person tour. Visiting the school allows you to meet the principal, see real classrooms, and meet the caring teachers and staff who will help your child succeed. Many parents and guardians bring their children along on these visits so they feel more comfortable and can take part in the decision.
Enrollment
As you explore schools, keep in mind that when you enroll, you will submit your top three school choices. Make sure you've explored multiple options, not just one favorite. This will help the enrollment process go smoothly.
After you’ve selected three schools, you are ready to enroll. This can be done online, at the school, or at district enrollment events or help sessions.