[4] The emphasis in the curriculum is on writing, speaking, critical thinking and independent application of knowledge.

Full Diploma students are also required to write a 3,000-4,000 word original essay and volunteer at least 150 hours of service.

[4][dead link‍] Rufus King is considered the top high school in the state of Wisconsin based on U.S. News & World Report rankings that demonstrated high participation rates on International Baccalaureate exams and college readiness index ratings.

In November 2009, Eva Lam, a Rufus King and Harvard University graduate, received a Rhodes Scholarship, becoming the first within the school district.

Jesse Jackson Sr. visited the school to encourage juniors and seniors to participate in the April 5th municipal and statewide elections.

The school received the award specifically in recognition of a nonprofit ACT preparation course started by student Zhenrui Liao.

The school participates in the national districts of the National Forensics League (NFL), regional Wisconsin Forensic Coaches Association, and Wisconsin Debate Coaches Association, as well as the citywide Milwaukee Debate League.

[21][22] In both 2012 and 2013, the team reached semi-finals at the State Debate Tournament, the latter year taking third and fifth place Best Speakers.

In 2013, Rufus King became the first team in the state to sweep all of the Southern Qualifier NFL and NCFL spots, which had previously been split with other schools.

[20] Mathematics: The "Mathletes" competition team has won at local, state and national levels.

[24] Rufus King also has an Accounting Club that provides a link between students and business organizations in the Milwaukee area.

Rufus King won "valued participant" at the Wisconsin Science Olympiad in 1994, advancing to the regional competition, where it placed 13th in nation.

Rufus King regularly enters a variety of local and national science and engineering competitions.

The Chemistry Olympiad Team competes annually and has sent five students to the State Finals: Zhenrui Liao, Paul Meyers, Madison Cox, Tony Stano and Andre Quarino.

[28] Ethnic and Advocacy Organizations: Rufus King has a variety of ethnic student groups including Asian Club, Black Student Union, French Club, Interfaith, Gay-Straight Alliance, and Latinos Unidos.

In 2011, the group organized a student walkout in opposition to proposed education budget cuts by Governor Scott Walker.

[30] All of Rufus King High School's athletic teams participate in the Milwaukee City Conference and WIAA Division I.