Established in 1894, our historic high school proudly, purposefully adapts to meet the changing needs of multicultural Milwaukee. Preparing youth to thrive as scholars, skilled workers, and citizens sounds different in a school where 900 students speak more than a dozen languages. Biliteracy and bilingualism, diversity and multicultural connection are cherished academic and community values that prepare our graduates for real-world complexity and opportunity.

Specialty programs at South Division include:

• ESL faculty teaching 500+ English learners.
• College-bound students enrolling in advanced courses and earning college credit – at South Division – before they graduate.
• Supporting 300+ Spanish-speaking students as they develop biliteracy and bilingual skills while learning standards-based academic content.
• Preparing students with special education needs for post-graduation independence and employment through job-placement services.
• Education and healthcare academies providing students with career-preparatory courses, and networking, internship and scholarship opportunities.
• Learning English while building math and reading skills, confidence, and friendships in our SIOP program, enrolling international students who faced many interruptions in their education before arriving in the United States.

In the South Division Library Media Center, you’ll find stories and histories from all over the world, and Milwaukee’s next generation of leaders focused on their future: preparing for the ACT, creating in the makerspace, taking a citizenship test, researching in our computer lab.

The South Division community goes above and beyond to support our city’s multicultural families and future leaders. An on-site medical clinic treats students and faculty during the school day. A parent coordinator arranges language classes, homebuying workshops, and other resources for families. A Twilight Center is open select evenings for fitness and esports, college counseling, and more. Our renovated pool, track, and gymnasium opened in 2024 for community classes and student athletes. Families and neighbors have an open invitation to cheer on the South Division Cardinals, who compete in many sports.

“The lights are always on at South Division,” says Principal Jose Trejo. “But our community works together to make sure everyone gets rested and connected, whatever their needs may be.”

Milwaukee Community Schools Partnership

South Division is proud to be a member of the Milwaukee Community Schools Partnership (MCSP). Through MCSP, our students, families, teachers, staff, neighbors, and partners come together to form a strategy that best meets the needs of our students. We work toward academic success and personal well-being for our children.