Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) confirmed that Assata High School, an alternative high school serving the city’s students, will close its doors permanently on November 30. The decision follows a sustained drop in enrollment that fell short of the district’s required Third Friday enrollment count.
Reason for Closure
In a letter sent to parents, Principal Carlotta Pritchett explained that the school’s enrollment numbers have been declining for several semesters, making it financially untenable to keep the campus operating. “We understand this news may be difficult for you and your scholar,” Pritchett wrote, emphasizing that the priority now is a smooth transition for every family.
Transition Assistance for Families
The district is coordinating a series of resources to help students and parents navigate the change. MPS will provide guidance on selecting a new school, completing transfer paperwork, and obtaining academic records. To ensure families have ample opportunity to ask questions, the district has scheduled both in‑person and virtual information sessions.
An in‑person session was held at Assata High School, and a second session is set for Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Additional virtual sessions will be announced in the coming weeks, allowing parents who cannot attend in person to receive the same support.
About Assata High School
Assata High School operates as an alternative education program that contracts with MPS but is managed independently. While the school has offered a different learning environment for many students, the partnership with the district means that enrollment thresholds apply, and the recent shortfall triggered the closure decision.
Next Steps for Students
Students currently enrolled at Assata will be reassigned to other public high schools within the Milwaukee district. MPS counselors will work with each family to identify the best fit based on academic needs, transportation logistics, and extracurricular interests. The district assures that all student records will be transferred promptly to the new schools.
Community Response
Local parents and community members have expressed concern over the loss of an alternative option for secondary education. However, district officials stress that the transition plan is designed to minimize disruption and maintain educational continuity for all affected scholars.
For further details, families can contact the Assata High School office or visit the MPS website, where additional resources and session schedules will be posted.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.
