What programs and/or services does Journeys offer?

Journeys Lutheran School (JLS) has four elementary self-contained classrooms located in Hales Corners; a Resource Room partnership at Mount Calvary in Milwaukee; a high school program; Teacher Consultant services upon request (for testing, observation, assessment, etc) at 40+ area Lutheran elementary schools; art therapy and counseling services; and various other teacher and parent resources.

What is your experience?

For over 65 years, Journeys Lutheran School (JLS) has been providing quality, Christ-centered individualized instruction to students with unique learning challenges. Our teachers are certified teachers, therapists, and counselors.

Whom do you serve?

We serve students who struggle with unique learning challenges and/or emotional difficulties. Our elementary self-contained classrooms serve children from 3rd to 8th grade, and teacher consultants serve 3-year-olds through high school students in various Lutheran schools. In fall of 2018 we implemented a high school program in partnership with Martin Luther High School, currently serving 9th through 12th graders.

How do students find Journeys?

Our students come to us through referrals or recommendations from teachers from both private and public schools. Teacher Consultants in the area help assess students as requested and make referrals. Parents also contact us directly with concerns and questions about their child.

What is your program of instruction?

Journeys is a Christ-centered school teaching a Christian worldview from a Lutheran perspective. Interwoven into the subjects taught are the Biblical principals that are the foundation for what we believe and who we are as Christians.The program of instruction at Journeys is based on the WI state standards for Math, English, Science, and Social Studies at each specific grade level, but will be modified and adapted based on the individual educational needs of the students enrolled. Instruction used will be a multi-sensory approach, integrating visual arts, music and movement as well as an experiential focus. In grades 9-11 there is a virtual school component with students spending part of the day being instructed online with teacher assistance and part of the day out in the community participating in experiential and school-to-work activities.

Do you offer busing or van transportation?

Yes, we offer a unique bussing system for our city of Milwaukee students, from Milwaukee Lutheran High School to the Hales Corners facility daily. Each student  must apply to reserve a seat on the bus as seating is limited.

Does my family have to belong to a Lutheran Church in order for my child to attend Journeys?

No. While our curriculum is based upon the Christian values and doctrine inherent to the Lutheran faith, as we are a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, we welcome students of all faiths and religious backgrounds, as well as those who may be unchurced.

What type of learning difficulties do you work with?

We work with students who have been identified with certain learning difficulties such as, but not limited to Learning Disability, Emotional Disability, Intellectual Disability, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), anxiety, mild autism spectrum disorders and students with social and emotional difficulties.

Do you serve physically handicapped students?

We serve children with some physical disabilities. Our building has an elevator and ramp entrance. We assess students on an individual basis. Please contact our office for more information.

How much does your program cost?

Students who live in the city of Milwaukee and meet the financial requirements may apply for School Choice to attend Journeys Lutheran School. We are also part of the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program (WPCP) and the Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP). For more information on these funding options, as well as a private pay option, contact us at 414-461-8500 or send us an email.

What are school hours?

Students attend class from 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. daily.

Do you offer free or reduced price hot lunches?

Yes! Free hot lunch (and breakfast) is currently offered to all students at JLS. Students are welcome to bring their own meals or can choose our hot lunch option each day.

Do you offer any before or after school programs?

We do not offer any before or after school programs at this time, but as space and resources become available, we will consider these programs.