School vouchers make WI a ‘Star Student,’ says budget watcher

By M.D. Kittle | Wisconsin Reporter

MADISON – Wisconsin’s move to expand school choice earns the Badger State a “Star Student” distinction from a conservative, budget-focused think tank.

State Budget Solutions on Monday unveiled its five best and worst education stories for school year 2013-14, giving Wisconsin and Ohio high marks for leading the way in expanding their school voucher programs.

“Governor Scott Walker in Wisconsin pushed to expand the program outside of Milwaukee and Racine, while Governor John Kasich encouraged Ohio to become the state with the most voucher programs,” Joe Luppino-Esposito, SBS editor and counsel, writes in the report card.

While Walker sought larger enrollment in an expanded voucher program in Wisconsin’s largest school districts, the state Legislature’s compromise deal will bolster the system by 500 students statewide this year. The expansion plan has been anything but smooth sailing, so far. Enrollment in the 25 private schools involved in the broader program may not be complete until sometime in October, according to the state Department of Public Instruction.

As a result, some parents hoping to receive vouchers may have to send students to public schools for a month or so before a voucher seat at a private school opens.

Critics of expanded vouchers, led by DPI Superintendent Tony Evers, see the ruination of the public education system in state funding for private schools.

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