The Badger Institute has put more time and effort into education reform throughout the course of our history than any other issue. Our early research on education funding, teacher performance, school choice and related issues led our state to become the home of the nation’s oldest school voucher program and contributed to pioneering reforms that eventually became a model for the nation.

We believe that every Wisconsin family should have the power to choose the best education for their child. Our most recent work – impactful stories, videos, articles and policy research – aims to shape public opinion and convince legislators in Madison and at the local level of the demand and need for change. Jim Bender, our education lobbyist in Madison, is a key voice relied upon by legislators debating school funding. Read on to learn how education freedom means success for students and communities.

Parents and educators share unique perspectives, trends and practices on how education freedom has made school a success for their students and communities — each in sixty seconds or less.

An ongoing series of articles and videos featuring the stories of Wisconsin parents seeking the best education options for their kids.

The chapter on education freedom in our Mandate for Madison, delivered to every legislative office in the Capitol and given to the Evers administration.

By Jim Bender and Patrick McIlheran

We should enrich the environment in which parents and the many educators who want to work with them find what is right for each child. They know the children. They know the job. We should empower them.

That only happens by making Wisconsin’s promise of school choice available for all families. Here is how to do that.

By Patrick McIlheran

A new poll last month asked 700 likely voters, “Do you generally support or oppose school choice?” and 70% said “support.” That’s a landslide. Sure, the idea was big with Republicans, but 67% of independents favor choice. A majority of Democrats, 53%, did.

Should the state funding that follows kids to private schools, now around $9,000, be closer to the $15,000-per-student average in public schools? Yes, said 57%. Should the state Supreme Court kill the program? No way, said 74%. Should the program expand? Yes, said 63%.

Our work in advancing free markets, opportunity and prosperity in the Badger State is only made possible by generous donations from our supporters. We never have, and never will, accept government funding. Donate online or email Angela Smith, Executive Vice President. The Badger Institute is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization.