Milestone Democratic School

Independent, tuition-free public school in Dane county

Currently serving 6th through 12th grade

Possibility statement

Our school can be a place where…

Learning is engaging

Everyone has a voice and all voices are heard and

The most important step is the next one

Why Apply To Milestone?

Staff committed to anti-racism, justice, and equity

Trauma informed and healing centered mental health

Small group learning environment

Student led exploratory trips and interships

All members have a voice

When I started going to Milestone I met really great people that helped me. I have really bad anxiety but I've learned how to just be in the present. I've grown so much from being here. I've been so many places in Madison. I've been happy for the first time in a long time. I’m glad I got to experience this.

Milestone Student

Reflections on my experience

I spent the majority of my time at Milestone learning about myself. How I think, understand and process my emotions, ways to cope, and that I have people to talk to when I am in need. I have learned that everyone is unique and different from one another. No two people think the same. I feel safe at Milestone.

Milestone Student

Reflections on my experience

I feel like I pushed myself to do more and be better for me. Instead of coming to class and just watching and listening to a teacher talk I figure my way out, or push my way through it, or get direction and help. Because listening to people talk and just looking at a screen all day is not gonna help me learn.

Milestone Student

Reflections on my experience

School lobby with bright colored mural and rainbow flags on the desk.

Classroom of students working independently.

Students in the maker space measuring a sheet of plywood.

Three students sitting at a table with board games for a club meeting.

Three students working to assemble parts of an aquaponics tank.

Students in the maker space during class.

A circle of students in a class with some attending virtually.

School hallway with brightly colored mural.

Four students playing foosball in the recreation room.

Students outside the building playing basketball, with yellow flowers in the foreground.

Student in pink hoodie showing a peace sign with her hand as an instructor uses a sewing machine.

Three students outside assembling a basketball hoop.

Instructor working with student on beadwork at Milestone.

Four Milestone students posing with a cow statue during a student-led outing.

Students producing videos in the classroom.

Milestone student photobombing classmates at work.

Milestone students and advisor in front of the Dane County courthouse for a student-led outing.

Two students watching as a classmate edits sound files on a laptop.

Detail of school mural showing two hands with sunflowers growing and bright background.

Public meeting and events

All Board of Directors meetings, Design Team meetings, and Committee meetings are open to the public, and may include Public Comment time in the agenda.

In addition, our Advisors are always happy to meet one-on-one to answer questions or chat!