Understanding Your Options
Private Boarding Schools
St. John's Northwestern Academy in Delafield is Wisconsin's only private military boarding school. Founded in 1884, it offers grades 6-12 and a post-graduate year. The school operates one of the most decorated Army JROTC programs in the nation, consistently earning Honor Unit with Distinction status. The campus offers both a traditional military track (JROTC-Leadership) and a non-military Leadership Academy added in 2020.
Youth Challenge Programs
Wisconsin Challenge Academy at Fort McCoy is Wisconsin's National Guard Youth Challenge program. This free 22-week residential program serves at-risk youth ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating. The program focuses on GED completion, life skills, and character development.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
St. John's Northwestern Academy accepts students nationally and internationally. Kenosha Military Academy serves students within the Kenosha Unified School District. Wisconsin Challenge Academy serves eligible Wisconsin residents ages 16-18.
Wisconsin's Military School Options
Wisconsin offers both premium private and free public military education options, plus a Youth Challenge program for at-risk teens.
St. John's Northwestern Academy
St. John's Northwestern Academy in Delafield (about 30 miles west of Milwaukee) is Wisconsin's premier military boarding school:
- Founded: 1884
- Grades: 6-12 plus post-graduate
- Type: Coed boarding and day
- JROTC: Army—one of the top programs in the nation
- Cost: $59,700 boarding / $14,000 day
The school holds an impressive distinction: its JROTC program has earned a perfect score during inspection—nearly unheard of among military academies. St. John's Northwestern holds the record for the most West Point appointments for seven consecutive years.
The Two-Track Option
In 2020, St. John's Northwestern added a non-military track:
- JROTC-Leadership Program: Traditional military experience with uniforms, drill, and Corps of Cadets
- Leadership Academy: Structured boarding experience without military training
Both tracks share academics, athletics, and campus life—the difference is in daily programming and whether students participate in military activities.
Kenosha Military Academy
Kenosha Military Academy in Kenosha (about an hour south of Milwaukee) is a free public option:
- Founded: 2011
- Grades: 9-12
- Type: Public charter (day school)
- JROTC: Army
- Cost: Free
As part of the Kenosha Unified School District, KMA provides military structure and college preparatory academics at no cost to families within the district.
Wisconsin Challenge Academy
For at-risk Wisconsin youth, the Wisconsin Challenge Academy at Fort McCoy (about 3 hours northwest of Madison, near Tomah) offers a free residential program:
- Cost: Free
- Duration: 22 weeks residential + 12 months mentorship
- Eligibility: Wisconsin residents ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk
- Focus: GED completion, life skills, discipline
The program has been operating since 1998 with the motto "Courage to change."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. John's Northwestern a military school?
Yes. St. John's Northwestern operates an Army JROTC program that consistently earns Honor Unit with Distinction—the highest JROTC rating. However, in 2020 they added a non-military Leadership Academy track for students who want structure without military training.
How much does St. John's Northwestern cost?
Tuition at St. John's Northwestern is approximately $59,700 for boarding students and $14,000 for day students. Financial aid is available, and Wisconsin's generous school choice programs and 529 limits can help offset costs.
Does St. John's Northwestern accept girls?
Yes. St. John's Northwestern is fully coed, accepting both boys and girls in all programs.
Is there a free military school in Wisconsin?
Yes. Kenosha Military Academy is a tuition-free public charter high school within the Kenosha Unified School District. It serves grades 9-12 with Army JROTC and college preparatory academics.
What is the Wisconsin Challenge Academy?
Wisconsin Challenge Academy at Fort McCoy is a free 22-week residential program for at-risk youth ages 16-18. It's run by the Wisconsin National Guard and focuses on GED completion, life skills, and character development. It's not a military enlistment program.
Can I use Wisconsin school vouchers for military school?
Yes. Wisconsin's Parental Choice Programs can be used toward private school tuition, including St. John's Northwestern Academy, for eligible families.