Rawson Elementary School stands as a foundational educational institution within the South Milwaukee School District, serving the suburban community of South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Located at 1410 Rawson Avenue, this public elementary school caters to students from Pre-Kindergarten through fifth grade. It operates with a mission to provide a supportive and academically rigorous environment tailored to the developmental needs of young learners in a diverse suburban setting.

For families moving to the Milwaukee County area or local residents evaluating their educational options, Rawson Elementary represents a key pillar of the local community. The school is characterized by its personalized student-teacher interactions, a commitment to state literacy standards, and a robust support network that includes both district resources and community-funded initiatives.

Contact Information and Location

Navigating the logistics of a school begins with its physical and digital presence. Rawson Elementary is situated in the heart of South Milwaukee, making it accessible to families within the Parkway Heights neighborhood and surrounding residential zones.

  • Physical Address: 1410 Rawson Avenue, South Milwaukee, WI 53172
  • Phone Number: (414) 766-2904
  • Fax Number: (414) 766-2905
  • District Affiliation: School District of South Milwaukee (SDSM)

The school’s location on Rawson Avenue places it near local transit routes, though it maintains a strictly residential feel. The administrative office serves as the primary point of contact for enrollment inquiries, records requests, and general school information.

Academic Curriculum and Standards

Rawson Elementary adheres to a comprehensive academic framework designed to meet and exceed Wisconsin state educational standards. The curriculum is structured to build a strong foundation in core subjects while fostering critical thinking and social-emotional growth.

The Wit and Wisdom Curriculum

A defining feature of the academic experience at Rawson is the implementation of the "Wit and Wisdom" curriculum. This English Language Arts (ELA) program is known for its depth and integration of high-quality literary and informational texts. Unlike traditional reading programs that focus solely on isolated skills, Wit and Wisdom encourages students to build knowledge in history, science, and the arts while simultaneously developing their reading, writing, and speaking abilities.

For students at Rawson, this means engaging with complex topics through "Great Minds" strategies. The curriculum is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that all students—regardless of their starting point—can access grade-level content through scaffolded instruction.

STEM and Specialized Instruction

Beyond literacy, the school emphasizes a balanced approach to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Specific faculty members are dedicated to STEM instruction, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities that are increasingly vital in the modern workforce. The curriculum also includes:

  • Mathematics: Focused on conceptual understanding and procedural fluency based on state-mandated benchmarks.
  • Art and Music: Integrated weekly sessions led by specialized teachers to ensure a well-rounded creative education.
  • Physical Education: Activities designed to promote health, wellness, and teamwork.

Student Demographics and Enrollment Trends

Understanding the student body provides insight into the school’s culture and the diverse perspectives brought into the classroom. Rawson Elementary currently enrolls approximately 379 to 381 students.

Student-Teacher Ratio

One of the most significant advantages for Rawson students is the student-teacher ratio. Data indicates a ratio of approximately 13:1, which is notably lower than the state and national averages. In a practical sense, this allows for:

  • Increased individual attention for students who may be struggling.
  • The ability for teachers to implement small-group instruction effectively.
  • Stronger relationships between staff and families.

Diversity and Economic Background

Rawson Elementary is a Title 1 school, a federal designation that provides additional funding to schools with high percentages of students from low-income families. According to recent statistics:

  • Economic Diversity: Approximately 60% to 64% of the student population qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch programs.
  • Ethnic Composition: The student body is diverse, with approximately 60% identifying as White, 28% as Hispanic, and the remainder representing Black, Asian, and multi-racial backgrounds.
  • Gender Balance: The enrollment is almost perfectly split, with a 50% male and 50% female student distribution.

This diversity is viewed as a strength, preparing students to interact and collaborate within a multicultural society.

Faculty and Administrative Leadership

The leadership and staff at Rawson Elementary are central to its operational success. The school is led by Principal Nicholas Anton, who oversees a diverse team of educators and support professionals.

Administrative and Office Staff

The front office is the heartbeat of the school, managed by key personnel who handle the daily intricacies of school life:

  • Principal: Nicholas Anton
  • Administrative Assistant: Lisa Schwanke
  • Faculty Assistant: Cheryl Sievert

Student Services Team

To support the "whole child," Rawson employs specialized staff focused on mental health, behavioral support, and academic intervention:

  • School Counselor: Jaime Kawczynski
  • School Psychologist: Samantha Roozen
  • Social Emotional Coach: Allyson Friedkin
  • Reading Specialists and Special Education Teachers: These professionals work with students who require additional literacy support or have individualized education programs (IEPs).

The teaching staff includes dedicated educators for every grade level from 4K through 5th grade, along with paraprofessionals who assist in classrooms to provide extra support for student engagement.

Daily Operations and School Logistics

For parents and guardians, understanding the daily "rhythm" of Rawson Elementary is essential for a smooth school year.

School Hours

The standard operating hours for Rawson Elementary are:

  • School Day: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Office Hours: Typically align with the school day, though staff are often available shortly before and after these times.

Safety and Access Protocols

Safety is a high priority, particularly regarding school grounds. During operational hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), middle school and high school students are prohibited from the elementary playground and school property. This policy ensures that the younger students have a secure environment for recess and physical education.

Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures

Logistics during the start and end of the school day are strictly managed to prevent traffic congestion and ensure student safety.

  • Primary Access: Rawson Avenue features a limited-access parking lot.
  • Street Parking: Available on 15th Avenue and adjacent side streets.
  • Strict Prohibitions: The school explicitly instructs parents not to use the alleyway on the west side of the building for dropping off or picking up students. This area is designated for specific operational needs, and unauthorized use creates safety hazards for children walking to the building.

Community Support and Resource Funding

Rawson Elementary benefits from a high level of teacher initiative and community involvement. This is most visible through the school's participation in external funding platforms and district-wide programs.

DonorsChoose Success

Teachers at Rawson have been exceptionally proactive in seeking resources to enhance their classrooms. Through the DonorsChoose platform, the school has successfully funded over 30 projects, raising more than $20,000. These funds have been used for:

  • Literacy Materials: New books for classroom libraries.
  • Technology: Tablets and interactive learning tools.
  • Art Supplies: Enhancing the creative curriculum.
  • Basic Supplies: Ensuring that every student has the tools they need to succeed regardless of their financial background.

South Milwaukee Recreation Department

The school also serves as a hub for the South Milwaukee Recreation Department. Programming is frequently offered on-site, including "School Out Days" programs that provide childcare and enrichment activities when school is not in session. This partnership is a vital resource for working parents in the district.

School Performance and Ratings

Evaluating the quality of an elementary school requires looking at standardized test scores, growth metrics, and qualitative reviews.

Proficiency Levels

Recent data from state-mandated testing suggests that reading and math proficiency levels at Rawson Elementary are around 32%. While these figures provide a snapshot of performance, the school district focuses heavily on "growth" metrics—measuring how much a student improves year-over-year rather than just their final score.

The C+ rating often seen on platforms like Niche reflects a balance between high-quality teaching staff and the challenges associated with a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students. The school continues to implement targeted interventions to bridge the achievement gap, particularly through its Title 1 resources and reading specialist programs.

Comparison to State Averages

While Rawson faces challenges common to suburban schools with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, its small class sizes (13:1) and specialized student services provide a robust framework for improvement. The school’s expenditures per student are aligned with district and state averages, ensuring that taxpayers' investments are being utilized directly in the classroom.

Living in the Rawson Elementary Attendance Zone

For those looking at real estate, the Rawson Elementary attendance area is part of a stable, suburban neighborhood in South Milwaukee.

  • Neighborhood Vibe: The area is primarily residential, characterized by mid-century single-family homes and some multi-family units.
  • Home Values: The average home value in the surrounding zip code (53172) typically ranges between $228,000 and $480,000, depending on the specific neighborhood and property size.
  • Renters vs. Owners: The neighborhood has a healthy mix of homeowners and renters (approximately 47% renters), contributing to a dynamic community feel.
  • Demographic Profile: The median age in the district is 42, with a high percentage of adults holding high school diplomas or higher education degrees.

Summary and Conclusion

Rawson Elementary School is more than just an educational facility; it is a community center for South Milwaukee’s families. With its dedicated leadership under Principal Nicholas Anton, a specialized curriculum like Wit and Wisdom, and a strong focus on individual student needs through a 13:1 teacher ratio, it provides a solid foundation for early childhood education.

While academic proficiency scores indicate room for growth, the school's proactive approach to funding—seen through its Title 1 status and DonorsChoose success—shows a faculty deeply committed to student success. For parents, the strict adherence to safety protocols and the integration with the local recreation department make it a practical and secure choice for their children’s formative years.

FAQ

What are the school hours for Rawson Elementary?

Rawson Elementary operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the regular school year.

Where should I park for student drop-off?

Parents are encouraged to use street parking on 15th Avenue or other side streets. The alleyway on the west side of the building is strictly off-limits for student drop-off and pick-up to ensure safety.

Is Rawson Elementary a Title 1 school?

Yes, Rawson Elementary is a Title 1 school, which means it receives federal funding to support its high percentage of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

What is the student-teacher ratio at Rawson?

The school maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and small-group learning.

Who is the principal of Rawson Elementary?

The current principal of Rawson Elementary is Nicholas Anton.

What curriculum does the school use for literacy?

The school utilizes the "Wit and Wisdom" curriculum, which focuses on building deep knowledge through high-quality literature and informational texts in accordance with Wisconsin state standards.

Can middle school students use the Rawson playground?

No. To ensure the safety of elementary students, middle and high school students are not permitted on Rawson property or its playground during the school hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.