Conserve School is a semester school for high school juniors and advanced sophomores focused on the theme of environmental stewardship.
Attending Conserve School gives high school students a one-semester opportunity to step out of their regular school and into an exceptional educational setting, while still continuing their required academic studies.
Conserve School's challenging, college preparatory curriculum immerses students in environmental history, nature literature, and the science of conservation. Because Conserve School is located on a 1,200-acre wilderness campus, a significant portion of the curriculum is delivered via outdoors, hands-on, active learning.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked WI School
- Grades: 10-11
- Enrollment: 64 students
- Yearly Tuition: $25,000
- Acceptance rate: 33%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 15
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Conserve School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Wisconsin for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Advanced Degrees
School Resources
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 10-11
Year Founded
2002
Student Body
Total Students
64 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
23%
State avg.: 35%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
88%
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
1 course
Advanced Courses
AP Environmental Science
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
$25,000
Tuition Notes
Financial aid is available.
Acceptance Rate
33%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Associate
Jennifer.Anderson
Endowment Size
$150 million
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Canoeing, Hiking, Outdoor Activities
Canoeing, Hiking, Outdoor Activities
School Notes
- Conserve School is a non-sectarian semester school aimed at students who feel a strong attachment to the natural world and who are motivated to conserve it. This semester-long immersion in environmental studies and outdoor activities deepens students' love of nature, reinforces their commitment to conservation, and equips them to take meaningful action as environmental stewards.
- The program interweaves college-preparatory academics with: the study of environmental history, nature literature, and the science of conservation, environmental service work, exploration of careers related to conservation, training in teamwork and leadership, and engagement with the outdoors.
- Designed primarily for high school juniors, Conserve School incorporates the flexibility to accommodate advanced sophomores.
- Conserve School students become part of a community that heightens their sense of identity and self-worth and imparts the confidence they need to go forward and make a difference, not only as stewards of the environment, but also as stewards of their own destinies.
- Conserve School is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), an accrediation division of AdvancED.
- Conserve School is a 2014 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Awardee
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Conserve School cost?
Conserve School's tuition is approximately $25,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Conserve School?
The acceptance rate of Conserve School is 33%, which is lower than the national average of 93%. Conserve School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Wisconsin with low acceptance rates.
What is Conserve School's ranking?
Conserve School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Wisconsin for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees and Largest endowments.
When is the application deadline for Conserve School?
The application deadline for Conserve School is Feb. 15.
School Reviews
5 3/16/2017
Incredible experience for my student - came back a student who was far more engaged in the works around her. Staff was tremendous - couldn't have asked for a better experience!
5 5/17/2016
Conserve School is an experience of a lifetime. The teachers really know their classes. They don't just flip through the book but they give you the extra they have learned or experienced themselves. There is always something to do, whether it is homework, fishing, hiking, or a pick up game of frisbee. It gave me far more than I ever expected. I always explain it to my friends as Hippy Hogwarts. I highly recommend Conserve School for anyone who has a passion for the outdoors.
5 5/17/2016
For Juniors and Sophomores who want a break from so called "traditional" education, are passionate about the environment and the outdoors, and want to learn in the company of fantastic, caring faculty: this is where you need to go.
Even the bad days are good (well, unless you contract bronchitis. Then it's hard to have a good time.). What you learn will impact you and stay with you forever. As for non-academics, food service caters to nearly every dietary restriction. I loved going to Conserve. If you have the opportunity: apply. I don't think you''ll regret it.
5 5/17/2016
Conserve School was an AMAZING opportunity! I attended CS5 and it was one of the best decisions that I have made so far! The classes are by far some of the most interesting that I have taken and the teachers absolutely love what they do. The campus is beautiful and there is always something to do. There are practice rooms for musicians, art classes for the artists, and an astonishing gymnasium and rec center that contains everything from a dance studio to a racquetball court! Every weekend at least one of the Grad fellows or teachers will take a group of students on an activity or trip around the area. The school inspires environmental stewardship which is something that I think is important for EVERYONE to take interest in especially in today's day and age. All I can say is to apply! It's totally worth it and you will love the time that you spend there!
5 5/17/2016
This school was life-changing. The staff and facilities were amazing, there's so much to do, and I learned so many things about the environment. I highly recommend Conserve School to any outgoing, outdoorsy, or environmental student!
5 7/24/2015
The academic program is fantastic and the teachers are great and really try to connect with students. There are no official sports teams but many games and activities to participate in. The art classes are really great, there are no music classes, but there are practice rooms and pianos available. It is a really great experience for any outgoing nature-loving student.
5 7/24/2015
This school is amazing! The teachers are delightful and knowledgeable, the campus is beyond beautiful, and the facilities are very nice. If you are passionate about the outdoors, this school is for you.
5 7/24/2015
I attended CS6, and it was without a doubt the best experience of my life thus far. Not only was it an AMAZING educstion opportunity, but incredibly fun! I made friends and memories to last a lifetime, learned far more than I ever though possible in one semester, gained valuable experience if independence (living in dorms away from home), and had an AMAZING time. I would highly recommend it to ANYONE without a second thought.
Endorse Conserve School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.
