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Letter from the Superintendent

Dear Parents, Guardians and Students:

The right to a free public education — and the responsibilities that come along with that right — are central to everything we do at Milwaukee Public Schools.

We’ve made great strides over the last two years to improve academics, reinforce positive behaviors and reduce suspensions so that our students spend more time learning.

This past year, the president of the School Board and I called the community together to address the issue of violence. The loss of students to street violence begs for a community-wide response. But it also reinforces the need for our schools to be zones of safety for our young people. That requires a commitment to safety from us and an equal commitment from our students and families.

This website outlines what that commitment means for all of us. I invite you to take the time to read it as a family.

Sincerely,

Gregory Thornton, Ed.D., Superintendent

District Vision, Mission, Core Beliefs

Vision: Milwaukee Public Schools will be among the highest-performing urban public school districts in the country, providing rigorous, high-quality learning opportunities for students. Schools will enable lifelong learning among students, families, educators and other staff focused on continuous improvement. Teaching will be child-centered, based on research-proven methods, and aligned to high academic standards; it will meet the learning needs of individual students. The district, its schools, and its employees will be accountable for measurable gains in student achievement.

Schools will be safe centers of community activity that are welcoming, well maintained, and accessible. Children will be provided maximum educational opportunities to become responsible citizens who make positive contributions to their communities. The district and its schools will strengthen partnerships with families and those in the community who influence and affect students and families.

Mission: Milwaukee Public Schools educates all students for success in higher education, careers and responsible citizenship so that MPS is the first choice for families.