Alternative Program Options

High School Completion Options

Do you know a student facing challenges in completing credits and at risk of not graduating? MPS has options to support graduation. 

MPS students who meet qualifications are eligible. City of Milwaukee residents not attending MPS should call (414) 475-8159 to discuss placement and enrollment.

Learn more about the Alternative Programs below.

Competency-Based Learning

Select MPS high schools offer project/activity-based courses so students can show proficiency and earn credit. Students retain all previous credits earned and work at their own pace to complete graduation requirements. Successful completion results in a high school diploma. Daily attendance in either a morning or afternoon session is required.

Who qualifies?

• Students who can demonstrate a 4.5 - 8.9 reading level 
• Students who are 17 years of age and behind in credits 

Credit Recovery

Credit Recovery is built into a student’s daily schedule to allow for on-time graduation and a high school diploma. Students must be enrolled in an MPS high school during the traditional school year to take part. Students who need to complete more than four courses for credit recovery should consider one of the other Alternative Education programs.

Who Qualifies?

• High school students who have earned a D or U in up to three courses
• Credits are needed to graduate on time

GED Option #2 Program

GED Option #2 allows students to take exams instead of earning high school credits. Students retain any earned credits and work to pass GED tests for subjects in which they lack credits. Students complete a career readiness portfolio to help transition to life beyond high school. Program completion results in a high school diploma. Daily attendance in either a morning or afternoon session is required.

Who qualifies?

• Students who can demonstrate a ninth-grade reading level
• Students who are 17 years of age and behind in credits 

MATC Emerging Scholars Program

The Emerging Scholars Program is an Alternative Education option that allows students to accelerate on credits, graduate from high school, and take coursework as preparation for certain technical careers. Instruction takes place at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).

Who qualifies?

• Students in grades 9–12 who are age 16 or older and meet program criteria
• Visit the MATC Emerging Scholars Program to learn more about the program criteria and career areas

Wisconsin Challenge Academy

Challenge Academy is a live-in program at Fort McCoy (near Tomah, WI) that lasts 5-1/2 months. In a structured environment, students focus on academics, physical fitness, leadership, life skills, citizenship, and more. Students return to their MPS school to complete high school and graduate. Sessions begin in January and June.

Who qualifies?

• Students age 16-1/2 to 18 years old at time of enrollment
• Students are one year or more behind in credits