2024 Best College Prep Public High Schools in Wisconsin

• Elmbrook School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  234 reviews

Alum: Brookfield East's academic program is amazing. It definitely set me up for a rigorous college workload--especially the honors and AP classes. The English and History department staff are particularly incredible; I am so grateful for all of the support and resources they provided me with throughout the years. The Science department could use a little work and, often, student understanding of acceptable and unacceptable comments, particularly revolving around race and gender needs some guidance. However, the school's response to any such incident was calm and well handled. I definitely recommend Brookfield East overall!... Read 234 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1360

• Average ACT 29

• Whitefish Bay School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  196 reviews

Alum: I very much enjoyed my experience at Whitefish Bay High School! As a student who went to Whitefish Bay schools from 5th grade through high school, I believe I was able to gain a well rounded view during my time there. Whitefish Bay has been known for some time as a quiet, affluent neighborhood that prides itself in being the home of one of the best public high schools in the state. Whitefish Bay High School does an exceptional job of getting their students to a college ready level in for years. As a result of being in a wealthy neighborhood, the community has been dedicated to ensuring that students at this school have all the resources necessary to be successful. The only downfall that I see is there is a complete lack of diversity in the school despite only being roughly 10 minutes from the inner city of Milwaukee.... Read 196 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  360 reviews

Senior: Middleton High School is an excellent institution that has a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The school has a diverse student body that represents various backgrounds. The staff at Middleton High School promotes a culture of respect, inclusion, and acceptance, which fosters a positive and supportive learning environment for all students. Middleton High School also has a strong sports program, especially in track, cross-country and football. The preforming arts department is also very good, and there are concerts and plays throughout the year. Overall, I would recommend this school to anyone seeking a multidisciplinary education and supportive community.... Read 360 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 29

• Madison Metropolitan School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  309 reviews

Senior: My freshman year of High School, I actually attended online at Monona Grove High School in Madison, Wisconsin. Sophomore year I attended Memorial in person and the experience here is amazing. Meeting new friends, losing some, and learning from them, and moving on. The high school experience is not all cupcakes and rainbows but truly, I do believe you become the person you want to be just by doing your best and by surrounding yourself with those who support and who really care for you are the people who will last years with you. The most people I depend on are my own family, especially my parents, who have always taught me to do my best no matter what. Arriving my senior year, is the time it all comes to mind and I started to really take it in after my 1st week. This is it. This is the last time I will be leaving my mark here with my favorite teachers, all the emotions, crying, smiling, laughing, communicating with others, overall just expressing my true self in my work & who I am.... Read 309 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 28

• Shorewood School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  143 reviews

Parent: I had four kids attend Shorewood High School. All of them received a fantastic education that prepared them very well for college. All four could express themselves orally and in writing beautifully. Several of them were very involved in the world class drama program at Shorewood. For many years our house was full of talk, dancing and music as the kid rehearsed or were building sets for the next play. And all four were in their university’s honors programs and all graduated with distinction. Shorewood High helped make my children smart and interesting young adults.... Read 143 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1370

• Average ACT 29

• Milwaukee Public Schools, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  438 reviews

Junior: Reagan is an excellent school in Milwaukee when it comes to academics and planning for the future. We have been practicing for the ACT since freshman year although that doesn't make it any easier it dose help to know what we are going into which is more then what can be said for some other schools. While that is one of the greatest highlights at Reagan what brings it down is the inconsistency when it comes to teachers and staff. Being that while some staff members are a breath of fresh air and an absolute pleasure to be taught by this does not apply to all staff. Which causes a different experience for all of the students, causing some to feel discouraged at times because of the harmful actions and words of some teachers. The school also needs to improve the diversity among staff, being that as a person of color when we go to school there isn't any who looks like us or can relate to our experiences. This is another thing that if changed would truly improve the school environment.... Read 438 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1430

• Average ACT 25

• Mequon-Thiensville School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  288 reviews

Senior: The best part about Homestead is the teachers. A lot of there stay for many years and have so much experience with teaching that I genuinely feel like I'm learning the content and future life lessons. The worst part is that it is based in a very wealthy area, so some students are a lot to deal with in good terms. It isn't Homestead's fault though. Something I wish would change is what Homestead invests their spending into. They put a lot of money into their football program, which is great because our team is great! Unfortunately, I sing and put effort into theater and Homestead doesn't focus on that at all. We have a lot of talent as a school and I just wish everyone was given the same chance to show it off.... Read 288 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 29

• Madison Metropolitan School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  327 reviews

Junior: Overall, I enjoy attending Madison West Highschool because of the quality of people (students and workers) and the quality of service it provides. In my opinion, the best part about my school is that it promotes a safe atmosphere among the attendees of the school by fostering monthly discussions about social problems within and outside of the school. However, I have a few hygiene concerns about my school the worst one being our dirty and constantly vandalized bathrooms. I really would like to see a change in the ladder area because the problem causes many students including myself to avoid going to the bathroom which can be risky or unhealthy.... Read 327 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1400

• Average ACT 29

• Elmbrook School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  208 reviews

Senior: My experience at Brookfield Central has been truly special. There are so many opportunities available to students. Not only academic opportunities, but opportunities for personal growth, forming life long connections, and trying new things. My best experiences at Brookfield Central have been in and out of the classroom. I really enjoyed participating in a vast variety of extracurriculars, such as DECA, Key Club, Tennis, however, I enjoyed attending all the school events as well. Many of the teachers at BCHS are super accommodating and kind. While BCHS is a great school, there is a lot of internal competition because it is a competitive high school with many smart individuals, and can be overwhelming at times. Additionally, the grading scale is very rigorous. I hope that in the future they consider changing the grading scale to fit many across the country.... Read 208 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1400

• Average ACT 29

• Milwaukee Public Schools, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  559 reviews

Senior: King International is a dedicated high school taking part in the IB (International Baccalaureate) program. This program is designated to help students be prepared for higher level courses throughout college and help students develop the fundamentals skills to succeed in college. King also offers a wide variety of student support services such as disability and deaf support to students in need. King offers a wide variety of numerous extracurricular clubs to take part in to uphold general (our mascot) pride! The athletics offered at King are also very entertaining and enjoyable to take part in as they're boosters for academic achievement.... Read 559 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1260

• Average ACT 23

• Glendale, WI•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  273 reviews

Senior: I enjoyed the endless possibilities to get involved in sports, clubs, and other after school activities! I always had so much fun at the sporting events in the student sections. The teachers all very inclusive. Something I would change is maybe some more focus on how important no fighting and being kind and safe at school is. There have been some instances of fighting and I hope this changes so that there are no instances.... Read 273 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1370

• Average ACT 27

• Verona Area School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  257 reviews

Alum: I rate VAHS as four stars out of five because I do believe that this high school is a school that offers pristine education and has a balance of fun as well. Firstly, the academics are amazing. There's a variety of courses and they continue to tweak the curriculum as the world is constantly changing. I took this semester long elective called, "Gender in Literature." It was a new course and debuted in Fall 2020. In the class, we learned about LGBTQ+ people in literature and learned about the importance of having a variety of authors. High school is the time that students try to find themselves and understand their identity, so I'm glad that Verona is able to adapt and accommodate to their students. Something I believe the school could work on is communication from staff to the student body. Having a lack of communication leaves students confused on who to go to for help and we've had incidents where student found out about why the school was in a lockdown during the end of the day.... Read 257 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1270

• Average ACT 27

• Kettle Moraine School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.64 out of 5  28 reviews

Senior: The High School of Health Sciences gives students many opportunities relating to STEM. They have partnerships with many organizations that help students figure out their post-high school plans. The High School of Health Sciences allowed me to take a CNA class through WCTC. The High School of Health Science staff help support each student and tries to prepare them for college if that is what the students' plan is. Their school has self-paced classes which help students learn key skills. While attending this high school for all four years, I have learned organization, time management, and communication skills. The High School of Health Sciences is one of five high schools on campus. The school has extracurricular activities that many students are involved in.... Read 28 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1170

• Average ACT 27

• Hartland, WI•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  549 reviews

Senior: Arrowhead is a great school! The teachers are dedicated to helping all students. Our sports are top of the state and you are held to a high standard. Best part is how if you are struggling in something, you can go to any teacher and ask for help. Worst part is seeing how we need upgrades in our facilities, classrooms and sadly our state won't give the funding for it. Another down fall is our school is known for families with money, yet they won't help provide for new teaching materials and facilities to help further education and athletics within our district.... Read 549 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 28

• New Berlin School District, WI•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  172 reviews

Senior: I love how our school has many programs that offer a variety of unique opportunities for students. Additionally, our school also allows the opportunity for students to start their own programs and clubs. For instance, I know of clubs that were started in recent years that have gained a lot of popularity, and they have also encouraged other students to go outside their comfort zone and do their own thing as well!... Read 172 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 28

• Menomonee Falls School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  259 reviews

Alum: Menomonee Falls High School is a very impressive school! It has a very convenient layout when it comes to classrooms, most science classes on the second floor down a certain hall, while English is on the first floor by the library. This helped me so much with learning the layout my freshman year. They also promote respectful and exemplary behavior everyday. I would like to see a change in there being more art programs, although there are a few already!... Read 259 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 27

• Cedarburg School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  262 reviews

Junior: Cedarburg High School gave me a great education! Most of the teachers go above and beyond, and there is an excellent variety of classes to choose from including honors and AP. I’ve met some of my best friends here, and the sports are great too whether you like to watch or play. The only problem is diversity which is difficult to find in a small suburban town.... Read 262 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 28

• Wauwatosa School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  149 reviews

Senior: West has had a few hiccups over the years. We've switches admin about 3 times while I've been there but overall its been a great experience. I've made amazing friends, had amazing teacher and overall a good experience.... Read 149 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 26

• Kenosha School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  105 reviews

Senior: It's a small school, so it's great for personal connections with teachers and getting around the school. All of the classes are pretty much honors or AP so it also looks better for colleges and GPA. The only downside is that there isn't much of a music or school athletic program. You have to go to another school in the district for that. But in the district, it definitely has the best academics!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 27

• Madison Metropolitan School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  189 reviews

Senior: The best part of my experience has been the sports. I found that the community within each individual sport was extremely supportive, and being a part of that community was super rewarding. Overall, the school is fine. The teachers can be hit-or-miss, and the facilities are not ideal (at least right now, they are undergoing a renovation), but the community is wonderful, and I always feel like I belong, and am supported.... Read 189 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1210

• Average ACT 25

• Pewaukee School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  248 reviews

Junior: My experience with pewaukee high school is relatively very good compared to other schools. Pewaukee has a great facility with sports teams and other great activities. Academics are also great but I have heard there are some teachers in which learning with difficult. Overall, despite some issues, I would recommend Pewaukee High School.... Read 248 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 27

• Wauwatosa School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  163 reviews

Parent: Increasingly raising expectations for academics, college/post-secondary preparation, and music and the arts. I like the new leadership of the school and have been impressed by the athletics and co-curricular experiences. Not many high schools doing a better job of supporting student well being and pushing academic achievement.... Read 163 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1270

• Average ACT 28

• School District of Waukesha, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  22 reviews

Senior: The Academy is well equipped and staffed, and the classes all have purpose and are well taught. The one complaint I have is that some of the students don’t take the classes seriously, and it detracts from the learning environment.... Read 22 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1490

• Average ACT 28

• Madison Metropolitan School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  245 reviews

Senior: I had an amazing time there. The teachers were great, caring, and supportive. I spent my freshman sophomore junior and senior years there and I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else... Read 245 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1050

• Average ACT 23

• Greendale School District, WI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  223 reviews

Senior: At Greendale High since 2021, I appreciate the dedicated teachers and their adaptability to technology. The wide range of extracurricular activities ensures there's something for everyone. However, students taking challenging classes can be disadvantaged in GPA-based achievements. The improving facilities and varied lunch options make campus life enjoyable. A downside is the lack of planning for events like homecoming and prom, leading to disappointments like water shortages and lack of A/C. Memorable experiences include open conversations with teachers, making school feel like a home away from home. I suggest implementing a student feedback system to improve events and rules. Overall, Greendale has strengths and weaknesses, but my experience has been positive due to the teachers, activities, and welcoming atmosphere.... Read 223 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1360

• Average ACT 27