MPS early start students return for 2021 school year
MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee Public Schools on Monday, Aug. 16 began its school year for students following the Early Start Calendar. The academic year started in person for students at more than 40 schools throughout the district.
The first day of school for students attending schools on the Traditional Start Calendar is Sept. 2.
This fall, all MPS schools are returning to in-person learning five days per week. School buildings are open to the public, and families should contact the school office to schedule a visit.
"I think that safety comes first and I'm hoping everyone will follow the safety protocols. Every plan needs to be placed in order and at least not going back to online -- that's my hope," said Miss Lee, parent and MPS teacher.
Students and staff are required to wear masks on buses and indoors. Masks will not be required while outdoors. Students and staff will practice three feet of physical distancing.
Zara Smith reminded her 5-year-old daughter before she heads inside…
"Keep your mask on and keep your hands washed," said Zara Smith, parent. "I'm a little nervous, but I do feel like she is going to be protected here."
If there is a COVID-19 outbreak, students will return to virtual learning. There is also virtual learning this year for parents and families who do not feel comfortable returning to in-person learning.
"We have two virtual options, one virtual option that we've always had, 6th through 12th grade, and that's over at the Webster building – and now a new virtual option for Kindergarten through 12th grade that is housed out of the Green Bay Avenue location," said Dr. Keith Posley, the superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools.
Other safety protocols include HEPA air filters, sanitization stations, and extra supplies to frequently clean high contact areas.
"I'm very happy that MPS required all mask mandates. Safety comes first! I'm happy for those protocols," said Miss Lee.
All fall high school sports will resume. Before- and after-school care will be open.
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To check and see the status of the virus in the district, there is an online COVID-19 portal. It's updated weekly and shows the status of every school in the district, the total number o positive cases in the district, and individual schools.
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