Choosing a school for your child is a decision that requires careful consideration. When I moved to Madison, the first thing I looked for was school information.

There are several high schools within the Madison Metropolitan School District, and I compared three that parents often discuss. I thought it was important to look at both the numbers and the actual atmosphere, so I organized the information as specifically as possible. Each school has its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, it is up to the parents to determine which environment is best for their child.

First is Madison West High School. It ranks 47th among 431 high schools in Wisconsin and has the highest academic achievement indicators among Madison public high schools. For the 2024-2025 school year, the proficiency rate for 10th-grade math is 57.21%, which exceeds both the district average of 41.93% and the state average of 42.73%. Located in the west of Madison, near the UW-Madison campus, the school naturally fosters a college preparatory atmosphere. It offers a variety of AP courses, and its arts and sports programs are robust. Many families choose to live in the west side of Madison to be in this school district. Since the school assignment is determined by where the district boundaries are drawn, it is essential to check this before moving. The neighborhoods around the school are quiet and have a good residential environment, making them highly desirable.

The second is Vel Phillips Memorial High School. The school's original name was James Madison Memorial High School, which was changed to its current name in 2021. Vel Phillips was an important civil rights activist and politician in Wisconsin's history, and there is significance in naming the school after her. With 1,903 students, it is the 10th largest public high school in Wisconsin. The school offers AP courses, a Project Lead The Way curriculum, and a Gifted and Talented program, providing options for students with diverse interests. It serves families primarily from the west and central Madison areas. Its larger size also means a wider variety of clubs and sports teams are available.

The third is LaFollette High School. To be honest, this school has lower academic achievement indicators compared to the other two. It ranks in the lower tier in Wisconsin and is 301st according to US News. However, it serves as a central school for the eastern Madison community, where students from various backgrounds attend together. The school is actively working on improvement efforts and runs programs in collaboration with the local community. If you are considering living in the eastern part of Madison, there is a high likelihood that LaFollette will be assigned, so it is advisable to gather sufficient information about this school in advance. I recommend checking the atmosphere in person through open houses or school tours.

There are clear differences in achievement among Madison public high schools. However, rather than judging a school solely based on ranking numbers, it is important to also consider whether there are programs that match our child's interests and personality, as well as whether the school environment is a good fit for them. Before moving, it is best to thoroughly check each school's information on the official Madison Metropolitan School District website and, if possible, visit in person. Finding a home within the desired school district is the first piece of advice given to Madison parents.