Wisconsin charter school launches early-college high school track

By AI, Created 11:21 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Southern Lakes College Academy is opening in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, as a tuition-free public charter high school for grades 9-12 focused on letting students earn college credit before graduation. The new school builds on Gateway Technical College’s EDGE program and could help students finish up to 60 transferable credits while cutting future tuition costs.

Why it matters: - Southern Lakes College Academy gives Wisconsin students a tuition-free public option to start college coursework in high school. - The model can reduce future college costs and shorten the time needed to earn a degree. - Students can stay connected to their home high school activities while pursuing college classes.

What happened: - Southern Lakes College Academy launched in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, as a tuition-free public charter high school for grades 9-12. - The school is designed for academically ready students who want a faster path into college. - The launch extends the earlier EDGE program, which allowed students to begin college coursework on Gateway Technical College’s campus while still in high school. - Families can request an Explore SLCA meeting or register for a virtual information session on Monday, May 11 at 6:00 p.m. - Enrollment inquiries are open for summer and fall terms. - More information is available at southernlakescollegeacademy.org or by calling 262-741-9452.

The details: - Students complete real college coursework taught by college professors tuition-free through partnerships with Wisconsin colleges and universities. - Partner institutions include Gateway Technical College and University of Wisconsin campuses. - Depending on the pathway, students may move significantly toward an associate degree or the first two years of a bachelor’s degree before high school graduation. - Some students may earn 60 or more transferable college credits. - SLCA offers personalized academic planning, ongoing advising and check-ins, college readiness support, clear transfer-focused course pathways, and full-time and part-time enrollment options. - Students can continue sports, clubs, activities, and graduation traditions through their home high school communities. - The school grew out of the Career & College Academy’s EDGE program, which expanded in size, reach, and outcomes before becoming a standalone charter school.

Between the lines: - The launch reflects growing demand for structured early-college options beyond traditional AP classes, limited dual-credit offerings, or self-directed online courses. - School leaders are betting that a dedicated charter model can scale the strongest parts of the EDGE program while giving students more support and clearer degree pathways. - The emphasis on transfer-focused credits suggests the school is aiming to make college coursework count beyond high school completion.

What’s next: - Southern Lakes College Academy is recruiting students for upcoming summer and fall enrollment. - Families can schedule individual meetings or attend the May 11 virtual information session to learn more. - The school will continue building on the EDGE model with the same leadership, student support, and college partnerships that powered its growth.

The bottom line: - Southern Lakes College Academy is turning high school into a direct on-ramp to college for Wisconsin students who are ready for more challenge and less debt.