The institution changed its name in 1917 to Milwaukee University School because of anti-German prejudice that occurred during World War I.

On Monday, April 18, 2022, Craig and Kelly Robinson filed a civil lawsuit alleging that "the school acted impermissibly to silence and to retaliate against those adversely affected by, and raising concerns about, the school's unfair treatment of students of color and underrepresented students.

"[7] Earlier, the couple had given feedback towards the school based on racial and ethnic stereotypes in classroom assignments.

The school issued a statement responding to the allegations, "USM's enrollment decisions had nothing to do with complaints of inequity or discrimination."

The athletic program begins in fifth grade when students become eligible for a number of teams, including basketball, track and field, football, and several intramural sports.