S
T E
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WSTEM
A Future Without Limits
Our Next Chapter, Growing with
Purpose
A Proven Model, At a Pivotal Moment
WSTEM is transitioning from an instrumentality charter authorized by a local school district to an independent public charter school authorized by the University of Wisconsin–Parkside.
This transition allows WSTEM to expand access to its highly successful model, welcoming students from a broader community while gaining greater flexibility to innovate, adapt, and grow.
WSTEM is open to all students in grades 4K–6. Application to and attendance at WSTEM are voluntary, and no tuition is charged. As part of its long-term growth plan, WSTEM will expand to include 7th and 8th grade in subsequent years.
About WSTEM
WSTEM Charter School exists to reimagine what learning can be for children —and what a public school can be for its community. For over 18 years, WSTEM has demonstrated that when students are given the opportunity to learn by doing—building, testing, questioning, and collaborating—they thrive academically and personally. Our students are curious thinkers, confident problem-solvers, and engaged learners prepared for a rapidly changing world.
WSTEM is not a new idea or an untested concept. We bring a long-standing, proven record of success as a high-performing public charter school, including recognition as one of the top elementary schools in Wisconsin. Families choose WSTEM because of its hands-on, cross-curricular STEM approach; its whole-child focus; and its strong, inclusive school culture.
SCH
OOL
WSTEM curriculum incorporates teacher-created projects alongside established programs such as Engineering is Elementary and Project Lead the Way. However, STEM at WSTEM is not merely a purchased curriculum; it is a culture cultivated within the school community to fulfill the WSTEM vision.
proficiency in both math and reading
elementary school in Wisconsin from US News & World Report
OVERALL SCORE FROM WISCONSIN DPI SCHOOL AND DISTRICT REPORT CARD.
STUD ENT
LIFE
Our students create a vibrant and inclusive community.
CURRIC
ULUM
WSTEM’s curriculum combines thoughtfully designed teacher-led projects with proven STEM frameworks, which may include programs like Project Lead the Way or Engineering is Elementary. This approach ensures students meet all state standards while engaging in hands-on, meaningful learning. At WSTEM, STEM is more than a set of lessons—it’s a dynamic, evolving culture. It adapts with the changing world of science, technology, engineering, and math, inspiring students to explore and innovate.
Specialists & Student Support
WSTEM students have access to a range of instructional specialists and support professionals who work in partnership with classroom teachers to support the whole child. These services are provided through a combination of school-based staff and trusted educational partners.
Instructional Specialists may include:
• Art
• Library / Media
• Physical Education
• Reading support
• Music (general music, band/orchestra)
• English as a Second Language (ESL)
Student Support Services may include:
• School psychology and social work services
• Special education services
• Speech and language therapy
Services and staffing are designed to meet student needs and may vary by grade level and year.
STEM Learning in Action
WSTEM provides hands-on, engaging learning experiences that connect STEM, creativity, and real-world problem solving while building a strong school community.
Student Experiences
• Weekly engineering challenges through mixed-grade, team-based projects, culminating in a full-day, schoolwide design event
• Spooky Lab Day, a parent committee-led day of hands-on, exploratory science with a seasonal Halloween twist
• Friday Ski Days at Little Switzerland, applying science concepts like force, friction, and simple machines in real-world settings while building confidence, physical skills, and peer leadership
• STEM Career Spotlights, lunchtime conversations with parents and community members working in STEM fields, helping students connect classroom learning to real-world careers.
Community & Enrichment Opportunities
Enrichment Programs and Schoolwide Experiences
• Service Learning Day
• LEGO® League
• MSOE STEM on Site
• Brewers Weather Day
• Science Fair
• Spelling Bee
• Destination Imagination
• Visiting author/illustrator
• High Interest Day
Family & Community Events
• Pi Night
• Math Night
Programs may evolve over time based on student interests, community partnerships, and instructional goals.
Our Teaching Team
At WSTEM, students are supported by a dedicated team of educators who collaborate across grade levels and disciplines. Teachers plan together, continuously reflect on student progress, and design learning experiences that are hands-on, inclusive, and responsive to each child’s strengths and needs. Ongoing professional learning and deep knowledge of students ensure that instruction is both rigorous and supportive. Our teachers don’t work in silos—they work as a team for every child.
Real Stories, Real Impact.
Partner
SHIPs
Opening in the 2026-27 school year, WSTEM Inc. is building the region’s first fully
independent, research-connected K4–6 STEM public charter school—serving families in
Wauwatosa and beyond, with planned expansion to grades 7–8. We are securing a STEM focused
facility to support innovation, industry partnership, and growing enrollment.