Harborside Academy

As part of the Kenosha Unified School District, Harborside Academy is a public charter high school in Kenosha, Wisconsin that serves students in grades 6–12. The school has about 600 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of about 14:1, which allows for individualized instruction and close interaction between students and teachers. Harborside Academy is known for its expeditionary learning model, which focuses on project-based learning, getting involved in the community, and using what you learn in the real world along with core academics. About 30% of students take Advanced Placement (AP) classes and tests, and the school helps students get ready for college by having them take the SAT and ACT. The student body is a diverse learning community, with about 45% of students being minorities and about 42% of students coming from low-income families. About 17% of students are good at math and about 54% are good at reading for the 2025–2026 school year. The amount of money spent per student is in line with the amount of money the district gets. People generally agree that Harborside Academy is one of the best schools in the area. It has a unique learning environment that can help students grow academically and personally.

The expeditionary learning model at Harborside Academy is still going strong. Students finished a study of Lake Michigan's environment in early 2026. The school has added new professional internships in sustainable urban design and local government to its senior capstone program. The campus also just opened a new collaborative commons area that makes it easier for students to give presentations and lead workshops.

Q1. Is it possible for students at Harborside Academy to take the ACT or SAT?

Ans. Harborside Academy helps high school students take the ACT and gives advice to those who want to sign up for the SAT.

Q2. What is the "EL Education" model that is being used here?

Ans. This model focuses on expeditionary learning, which is when students do long-term, real-world research projects and field work.

Q3. How is character development handled?

Ans. The "Crew" system makes sure that students get together in small groups on a regular basis to work on their social and emotional growth and keep track of their academic progress.

Q4. Do students in school do community service?

Ans. Service learning is a requirement for graduation that encourages students to make a difference in the Kenosha area.

Q5. What makes the classroom a good place to learn?

Ans. Small class sizes and a culture of respect for each other help students at school build strong professional relationships with staff.