Mission in action
Learning is a central component of University School of Milwaukee’s mission, along with leadership and citizenship, for all students. It is the first component of our Portrait of a USM Graduate, developed in 2017. As a college prep school that also seeks to prepare students for success in life, USM strives to develop learners who pursue personal excellence while demonstrating superior academic skills and knowledge.
The heart of a USM education
The student learning experience goes hand-in-hand with academic excellence, a characteristic that the school has been associated with throughout its entire 175-year history. Of course, student learning is heavily dependent on having excellent teachers with strong pedagogical training and approaches, and USM is fortunate to have some of the best faculty in the entire country educating and guiding its students. The learning experience is further supported by state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for unique and impactful experiences outside the classroom.
Introducing our “Portrait of a USM Learner”
At University School of Milwaukee, students grow to understand learning as a journey of curiosity, resilience, and discovery. From their first day of school to their final walk across the Commencement stage, they are encouraged to see themselves not just as students, but as lifelong learners. They explore the rich diversity of human knowledge and skills, ranging from the humanities to the sciences, eventually weaving together threads from each to arrive at a deep understanding of the world enriched by multiple disciplines and informed by their own passions and interests.
Learning at USM is dynamic and meaningful, extending beyond textbooks and traditional classrooms. Our faculty, renowned for their expertise and dedication, fosters an environment where students are invited to ask challenging questions, take risks, and engage in hands-on experiences. Through these experiences, USM students learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach problems from multiple perspectives. They embrace both the rigor of academic pursuit and the joy
of discovery, knowing that real growth often comes from moments of curiosity and exploration.
Learning is a collaborative endeavor at USM, enriched by our connections to both local and global communities. Supported by teachers, peers, and parents, our students understand that their successes and challenges contribute to their collective growth as a community of learners. They come to see learning as an ongoing, shared endeavor—one that equips them with the skills, habits, and character to thrive in an interconnected world.
As they grow through their experiences in our Preschool, Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School, USM students gain a deeper awareness of their own interests and aspirations, discovering not only what they want to achieve, but also who they want to become.
Click here to discover what learning at USM means for students in all divisions
The importance of learning
The USM curriculum is an interdisciplinary one, with courses in the humanities as well as cutting-edge STEM courses. It bridges all areas of learning and understanding while offering a global perspective, ensuring that graduates leave USM with an outstanding academic foundation.