MPS' ALBA School recognized by the White House as a Bright Spot in Hispanic Education

MILWAUKEE -- It's been an exciting week at MPS' ALBA School. Students and staff discovered they're being recognized by the White House as a Bright Spot in Hispanic Education.

ALBA School

"One out of every four children in the U.S. is of Hispanic descent and so the White House is focusing on making sure that they're progressing through the educational system," said ALBA School Founder Brenda Martinez.

ALBA's student population is 99 percent Hispanic and 97 percent economically disadvantaged, but they have been near or above the state average on recent tests.

"We don't work to seek accolades or fame or anything like that. We work to make sure that our children are learning," said Martinez.

ALBA School

The school has a rigorous academic program focusing on math and reading in English and Spanish.

"It doesn't just speak Spanish and it doesn't just speak English it has a mixture of both so we know how to speak both of them very well," said 5th grader Daniela Orozco.

Students are thrilled and now dreaming to one day meet the President.

"That would be the best thing ever," said Orozco.

"We're so surprised that the President recognized us and the school," said 5th grader Wesley Cornejo.

This isn't the first time ALBA School has been recognized.

ALBA School

Just two years ago, the three founders of the school were highlighted in People magazine as Teachers of the Year and they plan to continue making a difference.

230 Hispanic schools and organizations were recognized as Bright Spots in Hispanic Education throughout the country.

ALBA School is one of only three honorees in Wisconsin.