[4] In 1881, Governor Cadwallader Washburn donated his official residence on Lake Wingra, "Edgewood Villa," after losing a bid for re-election.

The school's student literary magazine, musical productions, remote environmental science field course and Latin oratory are all award-winning programs.

Key Club, STAR (Sisters Taking Active Roles), Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Class/Executive Council, Dominican Preaching Team, LINK Crew and Leadership Corps all provide opportunities to learn skills, exercise leadership and engage in personal growth activities.

The annual Fine Arts Festival brings professional guest artists, performers, and musicians to the school, offers a student talent showcase, includes a student/faculty hosted film festival with commentary, and exhibits a juried selection of two- and three-dimensional art.

[citation needed] Edgewood opened a new Performing Arts Center, named for longtime music teacher Dennis McKinley, in August 2019.

The new auditorium built as a part of the expansion seats over 400 and is host to both of the Drama Department's theatrical productions each year, along with concerts, assemblies and other school events.

Previously a member of the now-defunct WISAA,[11] Edgewood athletics moved to the WIAA and the Badger South Conference in 1999.

The girls' basketball team won the Badger South Championship in the 2005-2006 and 2008–2009 seasons, tying with Monroe both times.

[14][15] The boys' hockey team advanced to the state title game in 2008, finishing as runner-up to Eau Claire Memorial High School.

The alpine ski racing team (for both boys and girls) has had individual competitors place in the top four in conference standings.

The Ultimate Frisbee team advanced to the state title game in 2016, finishing as runner-up to Madison West High School.

The girls' basketball team won the Division 3 state title in 2017, defeating Greendale Martin Luther 51–30.