NDSM Coed Primary School
Mother Caroline Campus
At Notre Dame School of Milwaukee’s Coed Primary School, students in K3 through 4th grade build the foundation for lifelong learning. Our classrooms are filled with curiosity, creativity, and joy — where children are known, supported, and inspired to grow academically and spiritually.
Located at our Mother Caroline Campus, the Primary School is where faith, family, and learning come together every day.
Mother Caroline Campus
1425 S. 26th St.
Milwaukee, WI 53204
A Brief History
The Coed Primary School opened in 2012 as part of NDSM’s continued commitment to serve more Milwaukee families with a high-quality, dual-language Catholic education. What began as a small expansion has grown into a thriving early and primary learning community with over 400 students.
In 2020, the Mother Caroline Campus underwent a significant renovation that transformed the learning environment. The project added outdoor play spaces, a modern gymnasium, a new library, a fully equipped science lab, and flexible small-group learning spaces — creating an inspiring, state-of-the-art campus designed to meet the needs of 21st-century learners while preserving the close-knit, faith-filled atmosphere that defines NDSM.
Class Structure
- Early Childhood Program: K3–K5
- Primary Grades: 1st–4th
- Class Size: Three classes per grade, with small teacher-to-student ratios for individualized attention.
Dual Language
Our dual-language model immerses students in both English and Spanish from the start, fostering bilingualism, biliteracy, and bicultural understanding. Children learn to express themselves confidently in both languages, preparing them for success in an increasingly global world.
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Curriculum and Expectations
The Primary School curriculum emphasizes foundational literacy, math, and faith formation while encouraging creativity and problem-solving through hands-on learning. Students experience:
- English–Spanish literacy instruction
- Religion and social–emotional learning
- Math and science foundations
- Art, music, and physical education
We expect every child to grow not only in knowledge but also in kindness, gratitude, and respect for others — hallmarks of the NDSM experience.
Faith Formation
At the Coed Primary School, faith is woven into every part of the school day.
Students begin to understand God’s love through prayer, song, and stories that nurture kindness, gratitude, and respect. Each week, children attend Mass and participate in age-appropriate faith lessons that help them see how their actions reflect their values.
Faith formation at this level builds the foundation for a life rooted in compassion and service. Through classroom prayer, school liturgies, and daily acts of kindness, students learn that they are each a beloved child of God, called to share their gifts with others.
After School Program
NDSM partners with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee to provide high-quality after-school care for K3–4th grade students.
The program includes:
- Homework help and reading time
- Creative activities such as art and music
- Sports and recreation
- Character-building programs aligned with NDSM’s values
- Daily healthy meal provided at no additional cost
Parent Engagement
At the Coed Primary School, families are at the heart of everything we do.
We know that when parents and teachers work together, children thrive — academically, emotionally, and spiritually. Parents are welcomed as active partners in their child’s learning journey, joining us for classroom activities, family celebrations, and faith events that build a strong, connected community.
From our Back-to-School Night to Día del Niño and Posada, parents help create the joy and energy that fill our campus. Whether volunteering in the classroom, attending student performances, or cheering on young learners, families show children that school and home are united in helping them grow.
Our children love coming to school every day. They’re learning in two languages, growing in faith, and surrounded by teachers who truly care.
- Primary School Parent
Tuition and Financial Assistance
For families not participating in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program, tuition rates are set annually.
Most families qualify for full tuition coverage through Choice.
Limited scholarships may be available for eligible families.