The curriculum in Milwaukee Public Schools is based on the Common Core State Standards. The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). The standards were developed in collaboration with teachers, school administrators, and experts to provide a clear and consistent framework to prepare our children for college and the workforce.
The standards are informed by the highest, most effective models from states nationwide and worldwide and provide teachers and parents with a shared understanding of what students are expected to learn. Consistent standards will provide appropriate benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live.
These standards define the knowledge and skills students should have within their K-12 education careers so that they will graduate high school and succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing academic college courses and workforce training programs. The standards:
- Are aligned with college and work expectations;
- Are clear, understandable and consistent;
- Include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills;
- Build upon strengths and lessons of current state standards;
- Are informed by other top-performing countries, so that all students are prepared to succeed in our global economy and society; and
- Are evidence-based.
Wisconsin Act 20: Early Literacy Remediation
Teaching students to read requires skill and science. Act 20 states that all Wisconsin schools must provide science-based early literacy instruction from K4 through third grade. Evidence-based instruction, assessments, and personal reading plans for those who need additional support help all students become capable, confident readers. Skill development includes combining letters and sounds to create words, building vocabulary, and reading and writing with expression and clarity. Learn more about Act 20 in MPS.