Malaika Early Learning Center

Malaika Early Learning Center is a daycare and early education provider in Milwaukee, WI. Since 2003, the center has provided early childhood education for children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, as well as an early elementary program for students in K4 through 3rd grade. The facility is accredited by Cognia and licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families to serve 70 children at a time in its early childhood program, with an additional average enrollment of about 100 children in the K4-3rd grade programs. On an average day, over 120 children receive services at the center. The institution focuses on a Great-by-8 model designed to equip students with the cognitive, social, and emotional skills needed for school success.

The center serves a community where at least 81% of parents earn incomes at or below federal income levels, and the majority of children come from single-parent households. All early elementary students participate in free or reduced-price meal programs, and all scholars receive free tuition through the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program. At least 91% of childcare children receive a Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy. The facility features bright, well-lit classrooms, an enclosed playground, and a secure security system. The curriculum includes low student-to-teacher ratios, music, nature exposure, and field trips. Family enrichment is a core component, offering 85 hours of family involvement yearly, parent workshops, and community events such as Family Fun Nights and holiday celebrations. The administrative team includes Tamara Johnson as Executive Director and Principal, and the board of directors includes Dennis Mueller as Founder.

Located at 125 W Auer Ave in the Harambee neighborhood, the center sits about a mile from North Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Drive. It is roughly a quarter of a mile from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School and Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Place. Victory Garden Urban Farm and Clinton Rose Park are also within a short distance, providing nearby green spaces for the community.

Malaika Early Learning Center holds a rating of 4.50 based on 22 reviews, reflecting a solid reputation among the families it has served. As a dedicated educational institution in Milwaukee, it provides a structured and supportive environment for young scholars from infancy through third grade.