A parent in Grafton, WI

Wisconsin’s parental choice programs have steadily grown over recent years, but truthfully, many parents are still unaware of the options they have when it comes to selecting a school for their children. With all the information (and misinformation) out there, it can be daunting for families to confidently choose a school. LeNay G. is one example of a parent who found a school that fits her family’s values and needs, but was unaware they qualified for the state’s voucher program. It wasn’t until a conversation with the school’s principal when LeNay realized her children could attend for free.

LeNay wanted a school that provided a value-aligned, Biblical-centric education, one small enough for one-on-one academic attention for each child while also offering ample extracurricular activities. She found all this and more at St. Paul Lutheran School before even realizing it was part of the choice program and that her family did qualify to participate. Michael Yurk, principal at St. Paul’s, informed LeNay about the opportunity, which was a “game changer” for LeNay’s family. She says that without the choice program, it would not have been possible for all five of her children to attend St. Paul’s.

This early communication between Principal Yurk and LeNay set the tone for a positive, collaborative experience. LeNay says the school promotes healthy communication with the parents and is easy to partner with when issues or questions arise. “They don’t replace us [parents]”, she says, “but having them on board and having good conversations makes us feel safe.”

It’s still up in the air where LeNay’s oldest, a soon-to-be 8^th grade graduate of St. Paul’s, will attend high school. LeNay is confident, however, in the education her children have received since 3K, believing they have a solid foundation that will prepare them for any school setting.

It’s powerful to have options, but it all starts with understanding what those options are—something that School Choice Wisconsin seeks to improve year after year.