Wausau West High School

Wausau West High School is a public high school located in Wausau, Wisconsin, serving students from Marathon County and surrounding areas. The school is part of the Wausau School District, which also includes Wausau East High School and other elementary and middle schools. Wausau West High School has a strong reputation for academic excellence, with many students going on to attend top universities such as University of Wisconsin–Madison, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and Marquette University. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in a variety of fields, including STEM fields like engineering and computer science, as well as liberal arts fields like English literature and history.

● History

Wausau West High School was established in 1970 as a result of the growing population of Wausau, Wisconsin and the need for a second high school in the area. The school was built on a 40-acre site in western Wausau, Wisconsin, and it opened its doors to students in the fall of 1970. Since then, the school has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new gymnasium and auditorium in the 1990s. The school has also implemented various programs and initiatives over the years, such as Advanced Placement courses and vocational training programs, to provide students with a well-rounded education. Many notable figures have visited the school, including Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson and U.S. Senator Herb Kohl.

● Academics

Wausau West High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes a wide range of courses in subjects such as mathematics, science, English, and social studies. The school also offers various elective courses in areas like music, art, and foreign languages, including Spanish, French, and German. Students can also participate in honors programs and Advanced Placement courses, which provide a more challenging and rigorous academic experience. The school has a strong partnership with local colleges and universities, including University of Wisconsin–Marathon County and Northcentral Technical College, which provides students with opportunities for dual enrollment and early college credit. Many students have gone on to attend prestigious universities such as Harvard University, Stanford University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

● Athletics

Wausau West High School has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in the Wisconsin Valley Conference and the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association. The school offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and soccer, as well as volleyball, tennis, and golf. The school's athletic teams have won several conference and state championships over the years, including titles in football and basketball. Many notable athletes have graduated from the school, including Green Bay Packers player Jim Otto and Milwaukee Brewers player Bill Schroeder. The school has also hosted various athletic events, including the WIAA State Tournament and the Wisconsin Valley Conference Championship.

● Extracurricular Activities

Wausau West High School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and performing arts groups. Students can participate in groups like the National Honor Society, the Debate Team, and the School Newspaper, as well as music ensembles like the Marching Band and the Choir. The school also has a strong theater program, with productions of plays and musicals like Grease and The Sound of Music. Many students have gone on to participate in statewide competitions, including the Wisconsin State Music Competition and the Wisconsin State Drama Competition. The school has also hosted various events, including the Wausau Festival of Arts and the Marathon County Fair.

● Notable Alumni

Wausau West High School has a long list of notable alumni, including business leaders like Michael Fleck, CEO of Marathon Petroleum, and politicians like Sean Duffy, former U.S. Representative from Wisconsin's 7th congressional district. The school has also produced several notable athletes, including NFL player Jim Otto and MLB player Bill Schroeder. Other notable alumni include authors like Michael Perry and musicians like Butch Vig, drummer for the Garbage (band). Many alumni have gone on to attend prestigious universities such as Yale University, Princeton University, and Columbia University, and have achieved success in a variety of fields, including law, medicine, and engineering. The school has a strong connection to the local community, with many alumni returning to Wausau, Wisconsin to start their own businesses or work for companies like Kraft Foods and 3M. Category:High schools in Wisconsin