School Choice & Vouchers
I believe a strong public education system is one of the most important investments we can make in our communities.
Public Dollars and Private Education
I have concerns about using taxpayer dollars to fund private education, particularly when those funds support religious instruction.
Taxpayers should not be compelled to subsidize religious education that may not align with their own beliefs, and I am concerned that Wisconsin is being asked to support two parallel education systems with limited public resources.
Recognizing Reality
At the same time, I recognize that the school choice program is well established and that there is not currently enough political support to eliminate it.
Given that reality, I would prefer to focus on reforms that improve fairness, accountability, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Means Testing
I support means testing voucher eligibility so that public subsidies are directed toward families with genuine financial need rather than families who could otherwise afford private tuition on their own.
Public Money, Public Accountability
I also believe that any school receiving public funds should be subject to appropriate public accountability.
Public money should come with public accountability.
If taxpayer dollars are funding a school, taxpayers should be able to understand how those dollars are spent and whether students are being well served.
Schools receiving public funds should meet consistent standards for financial reporting, academic reporting, audits, and public records requirements, regardless of whether they are public, charter, or private.
Support Public Schools
My priority is ensuring that every child has access to a quality education while making responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Wisconsin must also do a better job supporting public schools, including increasing special education funding, so that local communities are not forced to shoulder an ever-growing share of the burden through property taxes.
Related Priorities
How I Lead
Read about my approach to public service, difficult decisions, disagreement, and accountability.
All Priorities
Positions answer important questions. Priorities describe the work I want to take on in Madison. Explore what I'll advocate for in the State Senate.
- school-choice
- vouchers
- education
- public-education
- school-funding
- property-taxes
- taxpayer-accountability
- where-i-stand