Latest DPI data shows an increase in students attending choice and charter schools

MADISON, Wis. (October 15, 2024) – Data released by the Department of Public Instruction today showed continued growth in families using private school parental choice programs for their children. School Choice Wisconsin released the following statement from its president, Nicholas Kelly: 

“Parents have spoken: they want more educational opportunities for their children. It’s evident from the new data today that parents are exercising their rights and know what is best for their students. Thank you to all legislators who advocated for the historic increases in the last budget cycle. Thousands of families now have the freedom to choose the education best for their child. School Choice Wisconsin will continue to advocate for educational freedom for all parents — public, private, and charter.”

Twenty new schools are now taking part in the choice program, bringing the total number of participating schools to 403. 58,623 students are enrolled in one of the four programs, an increase of 3,674 new students who are exercising their right to educational options.

Statewide, school choice is incredibly popular. Recent polling indicates that nearly 70% of Wisconsinites support It, including 69% of Independents, 47% of Democrats, and 87% of Republicans.