"They help you with college:" MPS opens first high school-based College & Career Center

MILWAUKEE -- The first of many College & Career Centers inside a Milwaukee Public School is now open. It means new support for students heading to college.

From the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to schools all over the nation, banners line the walls inside the new College & Career Technical Center.

"We want our young people to be able to see this and know they have what it takes to get to these different institutions," said Dr. Darienne Driver, MPS superintendent.

Computers have replaced instruments in what was once an old music room at Barack Obama School of Career and Technical Education.  It's now a place where students from across the district can connect with advisers -- and get free college and career support.

"Regardless of where they start, we want to make sure they have a strong and successful finish," said Kim Hunter-Reed, U.S. Department of Education undersecretary.

Dr. Darienne Driver, MPS Superintendent

The center is the first in a series of centers that will open in all MPS traditional high schools by spring of 2019.

"They help you with college requirements, getting grants, helping you get scholarships, making sure you have everything, keep your grades up to get into any college you want," said Jonte Montgomeroy, high school junior.

Having the centers inside the school buildings means they are easier for students who have jobs or extra-curricular activities to access.

"We have to figure out how can we make it easier for them and make it part of their school day," said Dr. Driver.

MPS' original College Career Center, located on the city's south side at 3333 S. 27th Street (near 27th and Morgan), will remain open.

MPS opens first high school-based College & Career Center