Academics

MPS Learning Targets

In 2003, Milwaukee Public Schools created Learning Targets for each subject area and grade level. These targets detail what is taught throughout the year. Parents are sent copies of the Learning Targets and encouraged to discuss them with teachers. Posters are also on display in the school. Teachers can provide samples of student work so that parents know what is expected from a child at his/her grade level. All schools in MPS work toward the same Learning Targets, which in turn are aligned with Wisconsin State Standards.

Reading

Math

Language Arts

Science

Social Studies

Art

Physical Education

Music

Health

Library/Media Center

Reading

The Reading program at 21st Street School receives additional funding from the Reading First grant. Students are placed in small groups according to their personal reading level and learn to master reading through Direct Instruction. Two-hour reading blocks are provided for all students. An extra 30 minutes of intensive instruction is provided for children in kindergarten through third grade who are below grade level. Each classroom is equipped with a learning center where students can practice their reading and writing with an extensive collection of resources. The Accelerated Reader program is used among students in first grade through fifth grade and results in high comprehension levels. Students are assessed through skills tests, checkouts, workbook scores and comprehension tests. Young students are given benchmark tests to track their progress.

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Math

At 21st Street School, the staff uses the Expressions program to teach math. This program is a mix of direct instruction and hands-on learning with a focus on critical thinking and basic facts. Students receive individualized instruction in the computer lab with the Successmaker program. Students who do poorly on assessments are taught the material again and given another test.

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Language Arts

Students at 21st Street School learn Language Arts using the Six Traits Writing Program. This program emphasizes the construction of written material in reaction to prompts, creative writing, journal writing, writing across the curriculum and various other writing styles. The Zaner-Bloser program is used to teach spelling. Through this program, students learn valuable spelling patterns and strategies, retain information through practical study tools and activities and use spelling knowledge to succeed in reading, writing and test-taking.

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Science

The Science program at 21st Street School focuses on three units throughout the year: biological science, physical science and earth science. Students also focus on science in the C.L.C. after-school program, with more experiments being done to enhance student learning. Field trips are taken to the Children’s Health Education Center to provide students with a valuable experience outside the classroom setting.

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Social Studies

At 21st Street School, the staff realizes the importance of teaching students to become responsible, knowledgeable citizens. In kindergarten through second grade, children study communities. In third grade, students learn about Milwaukee – its history, government, resources and much more. Fourth grade students visit Madison each year to complete their study of Wisconsin history. Government is focused upon in second grade and fifth grade, with fifth graders also studying American History.

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Art

Grade level teachers provide weekly art instruction to all students. The hallways and bulletin boards at 21st Street School are adorned with student artwork, allowing children to show off their creative talents and take pride in their artistic accomplishments. Teachers use the MPS Learning Targets to plan their art lessons.

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Physical Education

Students receive physical education instruction on a weekly basis from a certified physical education teacher. At recess, the staff also encourages children to play kickball, soccer, basketball, football and four square.

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Music

Grade level teachers provide weekly music instruction to all students. Using the MPS Learning Targets, music lessons are prepared to provide students with the well-rounded education they deserve.

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Health

Students learn to practice healthier lifestyles through the Harcourt Health program. This comprehensive program is designed to help students develop positive behaviors, habits and attitudes that will lead to a lifetime of good health and physical fitness.

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Library/Media Center

Students check books out once a week and have a bi-monthly library class in 21st Street School’s large, resourceful library and media center. A large collection of books is available for the Accelerated Reader reading program. Recently, the fiction collection was enhanced. Computers are available for student use both in the library and in the computer lab. Students are encouraged to use the Internet as an educational resource and receive practice using the Inspiration and Kid Pix programs. All classrooms have at least five computers that students use to practice word processing. These computers also help students gain experience with programs such as Accelerated Reader and Successmaker, which teach reading and math.

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