M³ launches Smart Start for MPS graduates

Woman works on her computer outside
The Smart Start transition program connects with MPS students before graduation and provides summer programming. (UWM Photo Services/Elora Hennessey)

This year, students who graduate from MPS in May and plan to attend either MATC or UWM can participate in the new Smart Start program offered through M3. This transition program connects with students prior to graduation, provides summer programming, and offers support on the MATC or UWM campuses through the first year of college.

We know transitioning from high school to college can be challenging. Each year, a number of students who plan to attend college following high school graduation do not enroll. Sometimes called “summer melt,” this phenomenon highlights the challenges of making this transition. Research shows that support programs and a success coach to guide the transition result in greater enrollment and success.

The pilot year will enroll 125 students and eventually grow to support 500 students annually. We are grateful for generous financial support from Herb Kohl Philanthropies, Kohler Company, and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County through the UW Credit Union Racial Equity Fund.