Many OFS participants come to the OFS classroom having experienced failure in traditional schools.
OFS goal is to help students overcome fear and frustration they often feel toward school work.
OFS provides an individualized learning environment in which certified teachers and skilled tutors provide small group and one-on-one instruction.
The teacher/student ratio for most lessons is 1:5. For those studying the Basic Skills Curriculum, the ratio is 1:1.
Typically, OFS students spend 2-4 hours daily in the classroom and the remainder of the day on the service site.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 12
- Enrollment: 36 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Operation Fresh Start ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Wisconsin for:
Category
Attribute
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 12
Year Founded
1970
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
36 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
80%
State avg.: 35%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
3 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
School Notes
- Many OFS participants come to the OFS classroom having experienced failure in traditional schools. OFS goal is to help students overcome fear and frustration they often feel toward school work. OFS provides an individualized learning environment in which certified teachers and skilled tutors provide small group and one-on-one instruction. The teacher/student ratio for most lessons is 1:5. For those studying the Basic Skills Curriculum, the ratio is 1:1. Typically, OFS students spend 2-4 hours daily in the classroom and the remainder of the day on the service site.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Layla, 2022 Legacy Graduate -
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are Operation Fresh Start often compared to?
Operation Fresh Start is often viewed alongside schools like Wingra School by visitors of our site.
Who are famous alumni from Operation Fresh Start?
Operation Fresh Start famous alumni include: Layla, 2022 Legacy Graduate.
When is the application deadline for Operation Fresh Start?
The application deadline for Operation Fresh Start is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Operation Fresh Start. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

The End of Teacher Tenure As We Know It?
Teacher tenure in our public schools is under attack. Will tenure as we know it survive? Some thoughts here.

Schools for Gifted Children
Teaching gifted children requires deft handling. These children need intellectual and sensory stimulation. But they also need guidance and careful nurturing so that they grow up handling their special gifts and themselves appropriately.

June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed EducatorsNavigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.