TransCenter:
El Puente High School
611 West National Avenue, Lower Level
Milwaukee, WI 53204
TEL: 414.672.1237
FAX: 414.672.1408
Co-Directors: John Surges and Lynn Klipstine
History
El Puente High School was founded in 1997. The program has a math and science emphasis to provide hands-on, project-based learning. El Puente operates a full-day partnership school with the Milwaukee Public Schools to serve children “at-risk”. Students are exposed to a variety of colleges and work training programs, including those at Esperanza Unida.
Mission
El Puente High School provides a small, safe, nurturing learning environment in which students focus on becoming contributing members of society. El Puente’s curriculum and program is designed to prepare students for university study, technical training or full-time employment. We believe that a solid academic education grounded in science, mathematics and technology which addresses both the arts and humanties will allow our students the knowledge and insight necessary for a successful future.
Curriculum Modifications
Our curriculum supports and works to implement the MPS K-12 curriculum teaching and learning goals. The curriculum centers on math, science and technology. It is a hands-on, project-based, integrated curriculum that incorporates two teachers in most classrooms. Every student is in enrolled in three classes that integrate two major subject areas.
Supportive Services
The school assists all students in addressing their personal, psychological and emotional needs through direct social worker contact, classes on social and emotional development, mentoring and home-school-community connections program. Each student will choose a staff member to act as her/his mentor. El Puente strives to create a family-like atmosphere that allows students to gain the knowledge, skills, experience, and self confidence necessary to become good, productive citizens. The community is also involved in assisting with supportive services in the areas of domestic violence, teen pregnancy, anger management, HIV/Aids and other mental health needs.
Student Eligibility
El Puente is designed for “at-risk” students in grades 9–12. Students are offered a full day program leading to a high school diploma. Preference is given to those who reside on Milwaukee’s south side. Students are enrolled on a first-come, first-serve basis when space is available.
Access to the Program
The application process follows MPS procedures established by the Division of Small Community Schools. Students may be referred by MPS principals or other school personnel. The school also accepts referrals from the Children’s Court Center, probation officers, other community based organizations and social service agencies. Students and parents hearing about the school can seek to enroll by visiting the school and completing an application.
Prerequisite for Admission
El Puente is open to students between 14 and 20 years of age enrolled in grades 9 through 12 who are defined as a “Child At Risk” under Wisconsin Statute 118.153. Students requiring EEN services may be enrolled with the approval of their parents, the Division of Special Services Supervisor, and the availability of services in compliance with the student’s Individual Education Program.
Procedures Used to Determine Eligibility
Students must complete an Alternative Education Program Application Form, with parental permission. “At risk” status is determined. Students and their parent(s) must attend an interview to determine the possible appropriateness of placement. Potential students must be interviewed with their parent(s) or guardian(s). During the interview, the school’s philosophy and programs are explained and the necessary commitment from the family to El Puente is obtained.
Use of Any Assessment/Evaluation Instruments
Prior to enrollment, prospective candidates are given a basic skills test and interviewed by school staff. Each student undergoes a reading and math assessment used for placing the student in courses.
Reasons for Possible Refusal
There are no requirements associated with previous academic achievement, athletic ability, English language proficiency, special education disability, or previous disciplinary proceedings. Students may be denied admission into the program as a result of not meeting the definition of “at risk”, a lack of space, or current involvement in a disciplinary proceeding. The program is not open to 220 suburban students.
