Elkhorn, WI — October 24, 2025 — Elkhorn Area High School has been named the #1 high school in Wisconsin for dual credit credentials earned prior to graduation, according to the newly released Wisconsin Technical College System Dual Credit Dashboard.
During the 2024–2025 academic year, Elkhorn students earned 70 professional credentials through dual credit courses offered in partnership with Gateway Technical College—the highest number in the state.
A dual credit course allows students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time, giving them a head start on postsecondary education and career training while still in high school.
“This achievement is a powerful reflection of the dedication of our students, staff, and partners,” said Jason Tadlock, District Administrator for Elkhorn Area School District. “Our students aren’t just earning college credit —they’re graduating with industry-recognized credentials that put them ahead in college and career pathways.”
Elkhorn also continues to lead the state in dual credit courses completed, with over 2,500 dual credit course seats filled annually—more than five times the school’s Advanced Placement (AP) enrollment of about 453 seats. On average, students in grades 9–12 complete three college-level courses per year, demonstrating the district’s commitment to college and career readiness.
Katie Graf, Director of High School Partnerships at Gateway Technical College, commended Elkhorn’s achievement:
“Elkhorn Area High School is leading the way in dual credit education. The number of credentials earned by Elkhorn students is a testament to their hard work and the strong collaboration between our institutions. They’re setting the standard for the state.”
While national rankings such as U.S. News & World Report focus on AP and IB courses, Elkhorn’s dual credit model provides a more comprehensive measure of student achievement. These opportunities extend beyond traditional classrooms to include the district’s Career and College Academy and Options Charter Schools, which are also growing rapidly in these areas.
Tadlock credited the success to a unified effort:
“We couldn’t achieve this without our dedicated educators, students, and a supportive school board. This ranking is proof that Elkhorn is leading the way in providing meaningful, college-level learning experiences for all students.”
Top 25 Wisconsin High Schools by Dual Credit Credentials Earned (FY 2025)
Rank | High School | Credentials Earned |
|---|---|---|
1 | Elkhorn Area High School | 70 |
2 | Bonduel High School | 67 |
3 | Franklin High School | 59 |
4 | Shawano High School | 56 |
5 | Madison: Memorial High School | 46 |
6 | Slinger Senior High School | 45 |
6 | Mukwonago High School | 45 |
8 | Madison: East High School | 42 |
8 | Holmen High School | 42 |
10 | Hortonville High School | 41 |
11 | Oak Creek High School | 40 |
11 | Menomonie High School | 40 |
11 | Madison: LaFollette High School | 40 |
14 | Muskego High School | 39 |
15 | Green Bay: Preble Senior High School | 38 |
15 | Bloomer High School | 38 |
17 | Hartford Union High School | 36 |
17 | Eau Claire: Memorial Senior High School | 36 |
17 | Burlington High School | 36 |
20 | Elmbrook: Brookfield Central High School | 35 |
21 | Madison: West High School | 31 |
21 | Eau Claire: North Senior High School | 31 |
22 | Sun Prairie East High School | 30 |
23 | New Berlin: New Berlin West | 30 |
24 | Union Grove High School | 29 |
25 | Kewaskum High School | 29 |
About Elkhorn Area School District
The Elkhorn Area School District serves approximately 3,500 students in grades PreK–12. Recognized for its innovative approach to education, EASD partners with colleges, businesses, and community organizations to create rigorous, real-world learning experiences. Through its focus on dual credit courses, career pathways, and hands-on learning, Elkhorn prepares students for success in college, career, and life.