University School of Milwaukee

University School of Milwaukee provides an exceptional PK-12 independent school education in a supportive, inclusive community built on the foundation of our Common Trust. By igniting a passion for learning, leadership, and service, the School prepares each student—as an individual—for success in higher education and a life of purpose. USM embraces a tradition of superior academic achievement through a commitment to expertise and innovation in our School.

USM is a friendly and inclusive community where students, families, teachers, staff, and alumni all come together to create an outstanding environment for students to thrive in. Our students become critical thinkers and problem solvers, and they acquire the character skills, confidence, and work ethic necessary to make good decisions, contribute to society, and enjoy rewarding lives. Our world-class faculty offer our students the very best academic experience possible while teaching and challenging them to develop 21st-century skills that will carry them through their professional and personal futures.

• University School of Milwaukee is proud of our exceptional program and our students' achievement at all levels. Our superior academics guide students through the "experience for a lifetime".
• At University School of Milwaukee, leadership is having the courage and integrity to take a stand, the vision and influence to inspire others, and the perseverance to create positive change. USM promotes a culture of ethical leadership for our students and faculty.
• University School of Milwaukee is committed to hiring and retaining the best teachers. Our THINK Big grants program provides outstanding professional development opportunities to faculty and staff. Our teachers share their expertise by publishing articles, books, and presenting at local, regional, and national conferences.
• Global education at University School of Milwaukee is a dynamic program that leads to empathy, insight, and action. Lifelong global engagement starts with the child's sense of self and moves towards citizenship in family, classroom, community, state, and world.
• University School of Milwaukee combines innovative approaches and entrepreneurial thinking with varied learning experiences to guide students of all ages to problem-solve and discover pragmatic solutions to real-world problems.
• University School of Milwaukee is committed to responsible stewardship, which enables our school to ensure long-term financial sustainability for our current and future students.

University School of Milwaukee believes that, in order to develop students as leaders, learners, and citizens, we must foster a diverse and inclusive community for students, their families, and our faculty and staff. USM embraces diversity in all of its various forms, including race, ethnicity, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, sexual orientation, ability, gender, and age.

This commitment is reflected in our Mission Statement, which drives us to provide “… an exceptional PK–12 independent school education in a supportive, inclusive community built on the foundation of our Common Trust.” The Common Trust calls for us to treat everyone at the school with respect, trust, honesty, fairness, and kindness.

Recognition of and respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences is fundamental to building a learning community where students learn to think broadly, critically, and independently. We strive to ensure that the uniqueness of every individual is celebrated. We believe all members of this community should feel empowered as they live and work equitably together. Our students leave USM well-prepared for the opportunities of a diverse world because they have been provided with a supportive environment in which to reach their full potential.

We know that our students can only be truly prepared for college and life if they are exposed to thinking and viewpoints beyond their own. And we know that our teachers and staff can only aid in that responsibility when they feel supported and part of this community. As the premier educational institution in the state of Wisconsin, USM has a critical responsibility to create a vibrant school culture that reflects the world our students will help to shape upon graduation and beyond.

The curriculum at University School of Milwaukee grows developmentally in each division to help empower students with cultural competencies that are needed to be a successful learner, leader, and citizen in our modern and ever-changing world. Whether on a local or global level, USM believes strongly in the importance of cultural competency for all students, and takes a growth mindset approach to its implementation in the curriculum.