Journeys Lutheran School (formerly Lutheran Special School & Education Services) is a 3rd through 12th grade school that provides Christ-centered special education programs to students who have unique learning challenges and/or emotional difficulties. Journeys students are identified as having learning disabilities, emotional disturbances, cognitive disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, and autism.
In June 2017, Journeys relocated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School to the former Hales Corners Lutheran Church & School on Grange Avenue and S. 111th Street, which was purchased by a donor for Journeys. With increased space, a high school program was implemented in partnership with Martin Luther High School. In 2021, Journeys served between 80 and 90 students and most of those students qualify and participate in the state of Wisconsin's Special Needs Scholarship Program.
Primary Focus Area: Prepares students from K-8 and high school with unique learning challenges to maximize their God-given spiritual, academic, emotional, and social potential
Requesting Funding for "Filling the Gap"
Program Budget: $215,000
Operating Budget: $1,600,000
Lutheran Affiliation: LCMS
Programs: The school utilizes a curriculum called the "Mosaics Program," which addresses specific learning needs of the challenged learner population by placing emphasis on "real" experiences rather than "vicarious" participation, as is found in typical work with textbooks, workbooks, and standardized materials. The Mosaics learner is involved with real-world learning through field trips, guest speakers, and in resolving "real" problem situations through acts of making and creating, collaborating, and conferencing, both with outside experts and teachers and with peers. Students gain communication skills through presentations and performance. This program is uniquely designed for each student.
Who is Served: As part of the School Choice program in Milwaukee, Journeys serves a large population of low-income and minority students in addition to students in suburban Lutheran schools. Journeys currently serves 85 students with special needs in grades 3 - 12.
Location: 5425 S. 111th Street, Hales Corners, WI 53130
Website: https://www.journeyslutheran.org/