In 2026, Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is making a $2 million investment into Gwen T. Jackson Early Childhood and Elementary School.
Formerly the 21st Street School, our school was renamed in 2009 in honor of Gwen T. Jackson, a prominent advocate for early childhood education and community service. Despite our strong mission, the school’s visibility and identity have been limited by our location just north of busy Center Street and our understated one‑story brick façade along Hadley Street. As a result, we lack clear educational identity and visual presence within the neighborhood. The improvement project at Jackson will enhance the school’s community presence, strengthen our visual identity, and improve the overall student experience and learning environment.
Through collaboration with stakeholders, community members, students, and staff, MPS identified priorities and planned key improvements. These include:
- Major upgrades to the building’s appearance: A new entrance canopy, façade improvements, and enhanced signage to increase visibility and to promote awareness of the building’s function as an MPS school
- Improvements to exterior playground areas: An exterior shade structure, enhanced natural areas, playground surfacing, and some play equipment upgrades
- Improved interior: New lighting, acoustic upgrades, a new colorful paint scheme, and enhanced wayfinding in the hallways, cafeteria, and gym to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for students, staff, and visitors
- Enhanced exterior safety features: Site lighting, fencing, and vehicle protection posts
Design of the project is complete, and final construction documents have been prepared. Work will be happening this summer with the goal of having all work complete by September in time for the start of the 2026–27 school year.