History
In 2014, the Ramirez family committed to investing in a new school on Milwaukee’s Southside as a push to improve Wisconsin education. Improving the education and experiences of students has always been a centerpiece of the philanthropic efforts of Gus Ramirez and his family. This outreach stems from Gus’s experiences as a child and his recognition and belief that education serves as the foundation of our economic growth in the country.
The school opened officially in 2017 and in the first year, a great deal was learned about our students. Standardized assessments uncovered that many students came to us two to four (or more) academic years behind. Our first Freshman class started with a composite 12.7 ACT score which is equivalent to a 6th grade math and reading level. In addition, many of our students had past or current traumatic incidents in their lives. 99 percent of our students qualify for the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program, 90 percent of families qualify for the federal free or reduced lunch program, and 96 percent of students come from minority backgrounds.
We are moving the academic needle and having a tremendously positive impact on students, not only academically but as we develop them to be future leaders. We set out to create a bold new school that was based on the belief that no matter where you were born, or the zip code you grow up in, all children are entitled to an excellent education. In our sixth year, Aug Prep is serving grades K4-12 and is proud to educate and support nearly 1,500 students.