Programming

Enrichment Camps and Adventures 

 Extended Learning Opportunities sponsors several FREE enrichment camps for students in K5–grade 12.

• Camps are held during non-school days and winter, spring, and summer breaks.
• Most camps are FREE of charge for MPS students and city of Milwaukee residents.
• MPS students receive priority registration. Non-MPS students will be notified if spots become available only if all necessary paperwork is completed.
• Interactive camps allow students to explore new ideas, develop new abilities, and learn in a safe, nurturing environment.
• Space is limited, and camps are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis for students with completed paperwork.
• Some camps require parent drop-off and pick-up as well as a bag lunch.
• Camp topics range from STEM, arts, music, and coding to outdoor education and much more!
• In order to reserve a spot, all required paperwork must be completed and submitted to Extended Learning Opportunities by scan to elo@milwaukee.k12.wi.us, in person to Central Services in room 150, or by mail.
• PLEASE NOTE: When completing forms, make sure to select the grade based on the criteria listed for each offering.

Elementary/Middle School

• Students in K5–grade 8 will experience a curriculum rooted in project-based learning that allows for student creativity and hands-on experience using the Defined STEM curriculum. The crosscurricular, project-based activities focus on design principles, architecture, technology, and mathematics and encourage students to develop research skills, build independence, and exercise choice in their ability to show content knowledge. 
• Topics focus on literacy through the content area of science in K5–grade 4, novel studies in grades 5–6, and themes in grades 7–8.

Grade 8 Promotional Program

• This summer program is intended to strengthen the academic skills of current grade 8 students transitioning to high school.
• Students must meet program criteria according to the district's retention policy.
• Principals must approve registration in this program by signing the registration forms and providing the necessary documentation.

High School

• Credit recovery and acceleration options are available for students in grades 9–12 in core subject areas to boost GPA and ensure on-time graduation.
• Online blended learning (Edgenuity): Students can complete online coursework begun during the school year with face-to-face teacher support to recover failed credits. Credit acceleration courses are available in Spanish, science, social studies, math, health, and art for students in grades 9–12.  Students must meet program qualifications to participate. 
• GED Option #2 (GEDO #2): Selected students enrolled in the GEDO #2 program during the school year can complete remaining graduation requirements through preparation and successful completion of content exams and program portfolio requirements.
• Competency-based program courses: Students currently enrolled in the program during the school year are encouraged to attend summer sessions to complete courses in English and mathematics.
• Service-learning course: High school students can complete their service-learning requirements toward graduation while enrolled in an acceleration course.

Extended School Year (ESY)

• Extended School Year (ESY) is part of the MPS Summer Academy offerings for children with special education needs. ESY is a portion of a student’s individualized education plan (IEP), which is a mandated service under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Eligibility for ESY is determined by an IEP team. An IEP team determines eligibility for ESY services based on data-driven decisions regarding possible regression of skills following a period of non-attendance, the amount of time needed for recoupment of skills, recognition of emerging skills, and the severity of the student’s disability as well as other factors. For students not eligible for ESY services, staff and parents are encouraged to explore other options included in the MPS Summer Academy.
• Community Assessment and Training Program (CATP) and On-the-Job Training (OJT) are school-to-work transition programs that prepare students with special education needs for the transition from school to the adult world of work and community living. High school students have the opportunity to explore a variety of careers while learning appropriate work behaviors. Depending on the needs of the student, some are paired with employees of businesses, and others work together with an MPS special education teacher and a paraprofessional.