Friday, January 10, 2025
Join us to learn about kindergarten options in Milwaukee Public Schools! MPS will host two Kindergarten Enrollment Fairs in February!
- Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at South Division High School, 1515 W. Lapham
- Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at North Division High School, 1011 W. Center St.
At the fairs, families will be able to learn about the many programs and offerings in MPS schools including arts, bilingual programs, language immersion, Montessori, International Baccalaureate (IB), and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs.
More than 100 schools—all MPS schools that offer kindergarten for ages 3, 4, and 5—will have staff available to chat about programs, answer questions, and help identify the best options for children. Interpreters will be available. Children are welcome so they can hear about school programs and be ready to attend in fall. Families should be sure to enroll from February 1 to March 17, 2025, for their best chance of getting their preferred school.
The fairs will help families explore schools and enroll. Activities for children will be hosted by Milwaukee Recreation and other partners. Children can enjoy games, face painting, crafts, and a story walk. Families can register for door prizes including movie tickets and museum passes. The Milwaukee Health Department will also be on hand to offer immunizations so children can be up to date on important vaccines like measles, chicken pox, polio, and more.
The district provides free breakfast and lunch for all students. Many schools have before- and after-school care to accommodate parents. Bus transportation is available; each school can provide information. Uniforms are worn by students in some MPS schools. Wisconsin law requires children to complete five-year-old kindergarten before entering first grade.
Families who wish to apply on site should bring the following information:
- Child’s name, address, date of birth
- Parent/guardian name, address, phone number, and email address; help is available for families who need an email address
To enroll your child in Milwaukee Public Schools, visit our enrollment web pages.
In addition to the fairs, MPS will offer an open house for families interested in Montessori programs. A Morning of Montessori will be hosted on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at MacDowell Montessori School, 6415 W. Mount Vernon Ave., Milwaukee. Families can tour classrooms, attend breakout sessions, and visit booths for all district Montessori schools.
Age Requirements for Kindergarten
3-year-old Kindergarten: Limited half-day and full-day programs are available across the district. Children must turn 3 by September 1 to be eligible.
4-year-old Kindergarten: Full-day programs are available at most schools across the district. Children must turn 4 by September 1 to be eligible.
5-year-old Kindergarten: Full-day programs are available at most schools across the district. Children must turn 5 by September 1 to be eligible.
For questions about enrollment or the Enrollment Fair, call 414-475-8159.