Wisconsin is a home for some of the best schools in the Midwest, offering students strong academics, innovative programs, and a supportive learning environment. Wisconsin, known as the “Badger State” and “America’s Dairy land,” is a state in the Upper Midwest region of the United States. It is famous for its cheese production, extensive freshwater coastline, and diverse landscapes, from northern forests to rugged southern hills. As of 2024, Wisconsin has a population of approximately 6 million people.
The largest city is Milwaukee, followed by the state capital, Madison. The education system in Wisconsin includes public and private options from early childhood through higher education. Key components include the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), the Universities of Wisconsin System, the Wisconsin Technical College System, and a robust network of private institutions.
Top 10 schools of Wisconsin
LakeView Technology Academy
LakeView Technology Academy (LTA) is a choice school that specializes in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, which operates within the Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD). What once was a response to overcrowding in the KUSD high schools and starting with 90 freshmen in 1997, has grown to more than quadruple in student population and become a valued partner to the Kenosha Area Business Alliance (KABA) and Gateway Technical College (GTC).
The curriculum at LakeView is present-focused and future-driven. This encompasses a mixture of traditional lecture instruction and hands-on, project-based learning. It is the goal of the staff to provide education of high standard and rigor while also making the lessons learned and experiences had to be be applicable beyond high school. Because of which, the students graduating from LakeView are able to enter the workforce directly as technically-trained staff or continue their education in college with as much as a year’s worth of credit already completed.
Mission: The mission of LakeView Technology Academy is to empower students to succeed by providing in-depth technical educational experiences, preparing students to be competitive in an ever-changing marketplace.
Vision: LakeView Technology Academy is an innovative high school that specializes in the technical and scientific fields, in order to prepare students for a variety of career and college pathways in a personalized setting with rigorous yet flexible programming.
Goals
- To provide a combined career/college preparatory program, recognizing that some of the skills needed for employment are higher and different from the skills needed for college.
- To provide a hands-on, yet conceptual-based learning environment in which teachers of technology, science, math, and English collaborate to foster problem-solving individuals and create within the students the aptitude to learn how to learn.
- To develop a program in collaboration with other public and private technical colleges and universities that prepares students for employment and lifelong learning.
- To expand working and unprecedented partnerships with area businesses and industries in programs such as job shadowing and Youth Apprenticeship.
LakeView Quick Facts
- LakeView’s Pathways: Engineering, Manufacturing, Information Technology/Computer Science, and Biomedical Sciences.
- The school maintains an enrollment of approximately 400 freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
- The school has strong ties to local business and industry, and a partnership with Gateway Technical College.
- Students have several dual-credit opportunities on campus. Students can earn up to 30 credits with Gateway Technical College prior to graduation.
- Many of our courses are taught in 90-minute blocks.
- Students can participate in band, choir, or orchestra at Harborside Academy.
- Students can participate in sports through their boundary school.
West High School
West High School is a four-year comprehensive high school with an approximate enrollment of 2,200 students. Located near the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the State Capitol, West High School was rated as significantly exceeds expectations on the 2018-2019 School Report Card from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. On multiple occasions, West High School has had more National Merit Scholarship semifinalists than any other high school in Wisconsin.
West High School, located in Madison, Wisconsin, is one of the state’s most recognized public high schools and part of the Madison Metropolitan School District. Serving grades 9–12, the school has an enrollment of over 2,100 students with a student-teacher ratio of about 16:1. Known for its strong academics, West offers around 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and consistently produces a high number of National Merit Scholarship semifinalists, often more than any other high school in Wisconsin.
The school has been rated as “significantly exceeds expectations” by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and maintains a graduation rate of around 88%. With a diverse student body, West emphasizes equity and fosters an intentionally anti-racist learning community. Students have access to robust academic, athletic, and extracurricular opportunities, making West High School a standout choice for families seeking both rigorous education and holistic development.
Whitefish Bay High School
Whitefish Bay High School, located at 1200 East Fairmount Avenue in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, is a public secondary school that serves grades 9 through 12. It operates under the Whitefish Bay School District and stands as the only high school in the district. The school is led by Principal Amy Levek and Superintendent Jamie Foeckler.
With an enrollment of around 900 to 1,000 students, Whitefish Bay High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of about 15:1, ensuring strong academic support. Only a small percentage of students—roughly 1–2%—qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, reflecting the community’s overall socioeconomic profile.
Academically, Whitefish Bay High School is one of the top-performing schools in the state. It is ranked as the #1 high school in Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report and consistently places in the top 200 nationally. The school boasts an impressive graduation rate of approximately 97% and significantly above-average proficiency scores, with about 70–73% of students proficient in math and around 85% proficient in reading. Advanced Placement opportunities are widely available, with nearly three-quarters of students taking at least one AP exam.
The student body is diverse, with approximately 75% identifying as White, 7–8% as Black or African American, 6% as Asian, 5–7% as Hispanic, and 5–6% as multiracial. Despite its diversity, the school has a relatively low percentage of economically disadvantaged students compared to statewide averages.
Beyond academics, Whitefish Bay High School provides a well-rounded student experience through its wide range of extracurricular activities. Students can participate in music programs such as band, choir, and orchestra, as well as drama, student government, and various clubs. Athletically, the school competes in the North Shore Conference and proudly carries the mascot of the “Blue Dukes.”
The school’s main building, designed by architect Herbert W. Tullgren in the Collegiate Gothic style, was constructed in 1932, adding historical and architectural significance to its reputation. With its combination of academic excellence, supportive community, and rich extracurricular offerings, Whitefish Bay High School is consistently recognized as one of Wisconsin’s best educational institutions.
Franklin High School
Franklin High School, located at 8222 South 51st Street in Franklin, Wisconsin, is a public secondary school that has been serving the community since 1962. It operates under the Franklin Public School District and provides education for students in grades 9 through 12. The school is recognized by its colors, black and Vegas gold, and its mascot, the Saber-Toothed Tiger, which symbolize its strong school spirit and traditions.
With an enrollment of approximately 1,600 students and a student-teacher ratio of about 16:1, Franklin High School maintains a supportive academic environment. The teaching staff consists of nearly 98 full-time educators dedicated to student growth and success. The school consistently performs well, ranking in the top 20 percent of Wisconsin’s public high schools. Its graduation rate stands at an impressive 97 percent, a reflection of its academic rigor and commitment to preparing students for higher education and future careers.
In terms of academic achievement, Franklin High School exceeds state averages in several areas. Roughly 67 percent of students demonstrate proficiency in reading and language arts, while about 45 to 47 percent meet or exceed proficiency in mathematics. The school also offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with many students actively participating in college-level coursework and exams, further enhancing its reputation for academic excellence.
The student body is diverse, with around 30 percent identifying as part of minority groups, including Asian and Hispanic populations. Approximately 15 percent of students are considered economically disadvantaged, which highlights the school’s role in serving a broad and varied community.
Beyond academics, Franklin High School provides students with opportunities to engage in athletics, arts, and extracurricular clubs. Competing in the Southeast Conference, its athletic teams are well-known in the region. Combined with robust student activities and a focus on well-rounded development, Franklin High School continues to be a leading educational institution in Wisconsin.
The Prairie School
The Prairie School, located in Wind Point, Wisconsin, is one of the state’s most respected independent, college-preparatory schools. Founded in 1965 by Imogene “Gene” Powers Johnson and Willie Hilpert, it was built on a vision of combining strong academics with creativity, innovation, and leadership. The school serves students from early childhood through grade 12, providing a continuous and supportive learning environment that prepares young people for success in college and beyond.
The campus itself is a major point of pride. Spread across 60 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, it reflects the architectural influence of Frank Lloyd Wright through its curved walls, skylights, and seamless connection to nature. Designed originally by Taliesin Associates under Charles Montooth, the school blends learning spaces with gardens, waterways, and open natural views. Modern facilities include science labs, art studios, a theatre, athletic fields, indoor training areas, and even a glassblowing studio, offering students opportunities to explore their talents across disciplines.
Academically, The Prairie School is known for its rigor and personalized approach. With a student-teacher ratio of about 7:1, students benefit from close guidance and individual support. The Upper School offers a wide selection of honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses across sciences, humanities, and the arts, along with access to specialized classes through programs like the Malone Schools Online Network. The school consistently produces National Merit Scholarship semifinalists and graduates who go on to earn significant merit scholarships from top universities.
Student life extends well beyond the classroom. The Prairie School encourages participation in athletics, fine arts, theatre, leadership groups, and service organizations, ensuring students develop both academically and socially. With about 30 percent of the student body identifying as minority, it fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where all students feel represented. Tuition for the upper grades is around $22,000 per year, but a large percentage of families receive meaningful financial aid to support access to this education.
By combining academic excellence, a nurturing environment, and a campus designed to inspire, The Prairie School has built a reputation as one of Wisconsin’s premier independent schools. It stands out not only for its results but also for the unique balance of tradition, innovation, and community that it offers to its students and families.
Brookfield Central High School
The Elmbrook Promise offers every graduating senior access to 30 college credits while in high school. This commitment empowers students to be consumers of their education. Significant learning opportunities include Advanced Placement, Project Lead the Way, Dual Credit (On and Off Campus), and Career Based Learning Opportunities. On average, an Elmbrook graduate earns 27.4 college credits.
The District Profile highlights that the School District of Elmbrook is located 15 minutes west of Milwaukee and serves over 7,800 students attending two high schools, two middle schools, and five elementary schools. Elmbrook is annually ranked in the top five school districts in the state of Wisconsin, and Brookfield Central and Brookfield East High Schools are consistently ranked among the top high schools in the Midwest.
A comprehensive education is strengthened by a culture of high expectations and student engagement. Over the course of the school year, hundreds of high school service club members dedicate thousands of hours to community service. The two high schools combined to stage over 35 fine arts performances at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center, a world-class facility in the community. Numerous teams and individuals earned recognition in state and national competitions across a wide range of co-curriculars and sports.
Brookfield Central High School Profile 2023–2024 reports a current enrollment of 1,168 students. The school is located at 16900 W. Gebhardt Road, Brookfield, WI 53005, and provides counseling services at 262.785.3990. More details are available at elmbrookschools.org/bchs.
In terms of College and Career Readiness, among the Brookfield Central graduating class of 2024, 89% plan to attend a two- or four-year college or university. Additionally, 99.3% completed at least one college-level course, and the class has earned $2.0 million in scholarship dollars. Fifteen students are recognized as National Merit Finalists.
Awards and Distinctions for the school include being ranked #1 High School in Waukesha County (WI DPI School Report Card). Brookfield Central produced 15 National Merit Finalists in 2024, the most in Wisconsin. Five 2024 Herb Kohl Foundation Student Excellence Scholarship recipients came from the school, also the most in Wisconsin. The 2024 Boys Tennis team was crowned State Champion, marking the school’s 45th WIAA Team State Championship. The school also established Wisconsin’s founding Hope Squad chapter, promoting student leadership and a comprehensive wellness strategy.
The Brookfield Central Class of 2024 includes 276 graduates (two of whom are juniors). The GPA mean for the top 10% of students is 4.781, while the GPA mean for the entire class is 3.722.
Average ACT Scores for Brookfield Central students compared to the state show consistently higher performance. In 2019, the school scored 25.1 compared to the state’s 20.3. In 2020, the school average was 23.1 versus the state’s 20.1. In 2021, students scored 23.4 against the state average of 20.0. In 2022, the average was 19.8 compared to the state’s 19.4. In 2023, Brookfield Central students averaged 23.8 while the state average was 19.4.
Finally, the Schedule and Graduation Requirements outline that students are required to earn 24 credits to be eligible for graduation. On average, students graduate with 27 credits, with no limit on credits earned. Brookfield Central High School runs on a four-period block schedule. One credit (1.0) is a course that meets daily for two 9-week terms (one 18-week semester) or alternates every other day all year. A one-half credit (0.5) is a course that meets daily for one 9-week term.
High School of Health Sciences
The High School of Health Sciences (HS^2) is a public charter school that exists on the Kettle Moraine High School Campus. HS^2 opened in the fall of 2014 and currently serves students in grades nine through 12. Its Governance council has established a class size of 50 students per grade. The philosophy behind HS^2 is: learning is a social, diverse and collaborative experience. HS^2 empowers students to be the architects of their own learning, making connections between relevant course instruction and their future endeavors
The High School of Health Sciences is a public charter school that is part of the Kettle Moraine School District. The school has been serving students in grades 9 through 12 since 2015. HS^2 opened in the fall 2014 and serves a maximum of 200 students, with 50 per grade for grades 9-12.
High School of Health Sciences was implemented to provide additional and dynamic learning opportunities for Kettle Moraine students on the KMHS campus. Additionally, the school and the support of its partners will help meet the employment need of area employers by proactively responding to regional trends. By the year 2020, positions in the health sciences field are expected to increase dramatically. The United States Bureau of Labor predicts a 25.9% increase in healthcare practitioner jobs as well as a 34.5% increase in healthcare support jobs during the same time span. In Waukesha County, 13 of the top 50 private employers are in the health sciences field and currently struggle to obtain and maintain staff to meet the rising demand.
The High School of Health Sciences was developed under the leadership of educators and local health care partners as a way to increase opportunities for students to learn in an immersive environment and open the door to the dynamic jobs and paths available in the world of health care.
School Mission: The High School of Health Sciences cultivates authentic and personalized learning in a health care and research context. We inspire curiosity in a wide range of fields, study, and service by engaging problem-solvers in an interdisciplinary spectrum of opportunity. Students will master a course of study that equips them for success in health care, research, and related fields.
Shorewood High School – Best Schools in Wisconsin
Shorewood High School is a public high school located at 1701 E Capitol Drive in Shorewood, Wisconsin, within the Milwaukee metropolitan area. Established in 1925, the school serves students in grades 9 through 12 and operates as part of the Shorewood School District. With an enrollment of approximately 619 students and a faculty of around 44 full-time teachers, Shorewood High maintains a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. The school’s colors are red and grey, and its mascot is the Greyhound. Shorewood High shares a healthy rivalry with nearby Whitefish Bay High School and competes in the Woodland Conference for athletics.
Academically, Shorewood High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Project Lead The Way programs, and a Gifted & Talented program. Students can also participate in over 40 co-curricular clubs and 23 sports teams, providing a well-rounded educational experience that balances academics and extracurricular involvement. The school is widely recognized for its academic excellence, earning a GreatSchools rating of 10/10 and a Niche grade of A+. State test scores show that 42% of students are proficient in math, while 57% demonstrate proficiency in reading.
The school’s campus features several notable facilities. The Administration Building, constructed in 1925, includes a distinctive 40-foot diameter copper dome used as a social studies classroom. The Barb Gensler Theater, renamed in 2012 to honor the retired drama department director, offers a 1,211-seat auditorium modeled after the RKO Theater. Shorewood High also houses a Community Fitness Center, established in 1998 within the renovated Manual Arts Building, and the John F. Nickoll Stadium, home to the school’s football, soccer, and lacrosse teams. These facilities contribute to a dynamic learning environment that supports both academic and extracurricular excellence.
Ronald Reagan High School
Ronald Wilson Reagan College Preparatory High School is a public high school located at 4965 South 20th Street in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Established in 2003, it is part of the Milwaukee Public Schools district and serves students in grades 9 through 12. The school has an enrollment of approximately 1,349 students and is known for its focus on academic excellence and college preparedness. The school mascot is the Husky, and its motto, “One mission, one vision, one focus: IB,” highlights its commitment to the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Under the leadership of Principal Mike Roemer, Ronald Reagan High School has earned recognition for its strong academic programs and dedication to preparing students for both higher education and future careers. The school emphasizes a challenging curriculum designed to foster intellectual growth, critical thinking, and leadership skills among its students.
In addition to academics, Reagan High School provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and community service opportunities. These programs encourage students to explore their interests, develop teamwork, and engage in meaningful experiences outside the classroom. Through its combination of rigorous academics and diverse extracurricular offerings, Ronald Reagan High School strives to create a well-rounded educational environment that supports student success.
Eisenhower Middle-High School
Eisenhower Middle/High School is a public educational institution located at 3700 State Route 957 in Russell, Pennsylvania. Serving students in grades 6 through 12, it is part of the Warren County School District and plays a central role in the communities of Russell and Sugar Grove. Established in 1956, the school underwent significant renovations completed in 2014–2015, which enhanced its facilities to better support both academic and extracurricular programs.
As of the 2023–2024 academic year, Eisenhower Middle/High School enrolls approximately 416 students and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. Under the leadership of Principal Amy Beers, the school employs around 28.84 full-time equivalent teachers, providing a dedicated and supportive learning environment. The school’s mascot, the Knight, represents strength and honor, and the school competes actively in the PIAA District 10 athletic conference.
Eisenhower Middle/High School is one of four high schools in the Warren County School District. In 2025, following the closure of Youngsville High School, its student zone was reassigned to Eisenhower, increasing the school’s enrollment and further expanding its role within the district. The campus spans 121,406 square feet, offering ample space for classrooms, sports, and extracurricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.