(The Center Square) – Wisconsin’s school choice program is growing as Department of Public Instruction began open enrollment for the state’s choice programs.
“There are 417 private schools and school systems registered to participate in the Private School Choice Programs for the 2026-27 school year,” DPI said in an announcement.
There are “377 private schools and school systems” in the statewide, Wisconsin Parental Choice Program. There are another 141 private schools in Milwaukee’s Parental Choice Program, and 40 private schools that are part of the Racine Parental Choice Program.
That’s an increase from last year when DPI said there were 406 private schools participating in Wisconsin’s school choice programs.
There will also likely be more choice students.
Wisconsin saw a record number of choice students in the 2025-2026 school year. School Choice Wisconsin said choice enrollment hit a new record high of 60,972 students this year.
“Parents are speaking loudly and clearly about what they want for their children: more educational options different than those offered by public schools,” School Choice Wisconsin Vice President Carol Shires said in October.
The public won’t know how many choice students there will be next year until after the 2026-2027 school year begins in September.
Wisconsin is also expanding income thresholds for school choice in the new school year.
For Milwaukee and Racine’s program, families of four can earn up to $96,450 per year. For the statewide Wisconsin Parental Choice Program, families of four can earn up to $70,730.
Parents have until Monday to apply to take part in one of Wisconsin’s school choice programs.
