The Wisconsin Parental Choice Program (WPCP) is a statewide voucher program that provides families up to $13,371 annually to send their children to participating private schools instead of public schools.
What is the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program?
The Wisconsin Parental Choice Program is a statewide private school voucher program launched in 2013. It allows income-eligible families living outside Milwaukee and Racine to send their children to participating private or religious schools using state-funded vouchers. For K-8 students, the voucher covers full tuition. For grades 9-12, the voucher provides substantial assistance, though schools may charge additional tuition if family income exceeds 220% of the federal poverty level. Wisconsin operates four choice programs total, with WPCP serving the largest geographic area.
Key Takeaways
- Provides $10,877 for grades K-8 and $13,371 for grades 9-12 (2025-26 amounts)
- Available to families earning at or below 220% of federal poverty level
- Over 330 private schools participate statewide
- Once enrolled, students keep eligibility even if family income rises
- Applications for 2026-27 open February 2, 2026 through April 16, 2026
Who Qualifies for WPCP
Eligibility centers on three factors: residency, income, and prior school attendance. Families must live in Wisconsin but outside Milwaukee and Racine school districts. Income must fall at or below 220% of the federal poverty level—for a family of four, that's approximately $68,640 (married couples receive a $7,000 deduction). Students must have attended a Wisconsin public school the previous year, not been enrolled in school (including homeschoolers), or be entering K4, K5, first, or ninth grade. Homeschool families often find this an attractive option since students coming from homeschool can enter at any grade level.
How WPCP Differs from Milwaukee's Program
The Application Process
The 'Once In, Always In' Protection
One of WPCP's most family-friendly features is income protection after initial enrollment. Once your child qualifies and enters the program, they maintain eligibility even if your family income increases beyond the threshold. This protection continues as long as your student remains continuously enrolled in a participating choice school. Many families find this reassuring—a promotion or raise won't suddenly disqualify your child mid-education.
The Bottom Line
Wisconsin's Parental Choice Program opens private education doors for families who might otherwise find tuition out of reach. The application window is narrow and deadlines are strict, so families interested in the 2026-27 school year should start gathering documentation now. For homeschool families considering a transition to private school, WPCP's flexibility around prior enrollment makes it particularly accessible. Contact the Wisconsin DPI at 1-888-245-2732 or PrivateSchoolChoice@dpi.wi.gov with questions.
