Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the UWM/MPS Internship Program?

As part of the application process to one of our teacher certification programs (Early Childhood, Middle Childhood Early Adolescence, and Early Adolescence Adolescence) an interview is required. At this interview, the application process for the UWM/MPS Internship Program will be explained. You will be eligible to apply for the Internship Program after you have been accepted into the certification program and if seats are still available.

Is acceptance into the UWM/MPS Internship Program guaranteed?

The number of seats available is determined by the need for special educators in Milwaukee Public Schools. In addition, we have a given number of seats. So acceptance is not guaranteed.

After you have been accepted into a Certification program, we will accept your application to the Internship program. In Spring, we will notify you of your status in the Internship Program.

When will I know if I have an intern contract?

You will be notified in by the program in Spring as to the likelihood of acceptance into the Internship Program. As for the official contract, MPS begins processing them at the end of July through early August. You will need to meet all MPS hiring requirements and have successfully completed the summer components of the program, which include an unpaid 6 week student teaching experience (this requirement has already been fulfilled for those with regular education background or licensure due to their previous student teaching experiences). The number of intern positions is determined by need and resources in MPS.

Will I be able to provide input into where I will teach as an intern?

MPS attempts to honor requests for age level and working with students with certain types of disabilities, but placements are ultimately based on District need.

When will I know where I will be assigned?

Intern placements are generally made in early-mid August. You will be notified as soon as placements are made.

What can I expect to be paid?

You will receive the beginning salary (step 0) and pay of a beginning Milwaukee Public Schools teacher. MPS Home

Do I need to live in Milwaukee during my Internship?

Interns are expected to make a 3 year commitment to the District beyond the year(s) spent in the Internship program. However, if you do not currently reside within the City of Milwaukee, you would need to relocate within one year of your teaching appointment (after finishing the certification program) and retain your residency for the next 2 years. Note that these are minimal requirements. We are looking for individuals who intend to commit to an urban environment over the long term.

If you are not prepared to commit to working for MPS for 5 years, you should not apply to the UWM/MPS Internship program.

How long will I have to complete the internship program?

Typically it is two years.

Will I be guaranteed a teaching position with Milwaukee Public Schools once I complete the 2 year Internship Program?

No, you must apply and interview for a position.

How long of a commitment will I need to make as a teacher?

You will need to commit to MPS for 3 years beyond program completion (for a total of 4 or 5 years, depending on the length of your program).

I am certified to teach English or Social Studies at the EAA level. Will my program be any shorter?

Generally speaking, you would have 3 courses waived: 1) Student Teaching; 2) Reading in the Content Areas; and 3) Child, Learner, Disability. The other courses are specific to working with students with disabilities and are generally not taught in certification programs for content area teaching.

The length of the program would remain the same: 2 years. The waiving of these courses means that the Summer I portion is lighter than it is for those who do not hold a certification in another area.

If you fall into this category, we would need to verify these courses on your transcripts. There are exceptions to these courses being waived, including how recently the courses were taken, institutional accreditation, and other factors.