As the Legislature hashes out the state budget due by June 30, WCRIS has fielded questions about the Parental Choice Programs.

Though it’s unlikely that the Democratic governor will sign anything from the Republican legislature that advances or expands school choice, it’s equally as unlikely that the Republican legislature will help any effort that harms choice for the governor’s approval.

The good news is that, thanks to WCRIS’ advocacy, a proportional increase in voucher amounts was written into the choice law years ago. This means that if per-pupil funding is raised for public schools (which is likely in the forthcoming budget), then the voucher also increases a proportional amount. The final number will be known when the budget is passed.

Going into next school year, WCRIS recommends crafting your school’s budget using this year’s voucher amounts as we wait for the state budget to be signed.

Cultural mores are shifting and some federal agencies are considering adopting policies that reflect that. Since the voucher program is a state creation, it is not directly affected by shifting federal values. However, amidst this confusion, know that WCRIS is committed to your school’s unique mission and ultimately to accessible educational options for all children.

If your school is in or considering joining the choice programs, WCRIS encourages you to keep the following in mind:

  1. We are not alone. There are many other social and legal groups that support school choice and will help defend our schools. Our schools’ desks are needed by society. Many influential local and national speakers know that, even if it doesn’t always seem so.
  2. School choice is growing. There are 77 school choice programs in the country. Several states have jumped onboard just this year. It’s clear that parents want options, which was only exacerbated by the pandemic. 
  3. Society needs our schools. Our schools generally perform better than their public counterparts. Parents choose our schools because they feel their children are safer. National data demonstrates all that. 
  4. Student/parent handbooks are essential. Embrace your school’s mission, beliefs and values in your handbooks. Infuse your school’s curriculum with them. Enforce all policies consistently and require parents and students to sign off on your expected conduct and values.
  5. Strategize for the future. The choice programs are state-run and, unfortunately, can be altered by state government at any time. We know that the state has a declining demographic of school-age children. We know that fewer people are practicing their faith and supporting its institutions. We know that choice programs are political footballs. So, it’s important to focus on what you can control. Schools can make plans for the future. Creating a strategic, hypothetical plan for operating a school free from a choice program empowers your school to tackle the future.
  6. WCRIS will continue to represent you and is here to help navigate the confusion. We are committed to protecting our schools’ best interests and have influence in federal and state governments. Our staff is available to answer your questions, consult with you and your school community about joining the programs and help with successful program participation.