Wisconsin Racine Parental Choice Program
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help, visit the official program website.
Summary
The Wisconsin Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP) is a school voucher program that provides state funds for eligible students to attend participating private schools within the Racine Unified School District boundaries. This program aims to increase educational options and school choice for families residing in the Racine area.
Student Funding
Funding Type: Voucher
The state calculates voucher amounts under the RPCP each year. The state then generally announces the amount by the summer before the fall school enrollment period. Voucher amounts will generally cover the full cost of tuition at participating private schools. With the exception that a private school may, in addition to the state aid payment it receives, charge a RPCP student tuition in an amount determined by the school if both of the following apply:
- the student is in grades 9 through 12
- the family income of the student at or below 300% of the federal poverty level
Based on these details, the private school makes the determination whether the school can charge a family tuition in grades 9 through 12.
In addition, schools may charge fees for other educational expenses, such as personal items (uniforms, gym clothes, and towels), meals, extracurricular activities, musical instruments, before-and-after school childcare, and transportation, which parents must cover regardless of their income level.
Student Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for the Wisconsin Racine Parental Choice Program, the student must be a Racine Unified School District resident with students entering K-12 grades who are ages 4 – 20 on or before September 1.
A student must be at least the following age on or before September 1: 4 years old for K4, 5 years old for K5 and 6 years old for grade 1. The student must also (1) be applying to grades K4, K5, 1 or 9, OR (2) meet one of the following prior year attendance requirements:
- attended a public school in Wisconsin
- attended school in another state
- is not enrolled in school (includes homeschooled students for the entire prior school year)
- participated in the MPCP, RPCP, or WPCP
- been on a MPCP, RPCP, or WPCP waiting list
The student could also be applying to the RPCP and have been on any prior year RPCP waiting list in 2015-16 or later due to a school district enrollment cap.
Family income must be at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.
Rules & Requirements
- Income Level: At or below 300% of the federal poverty level. You can find the current levels on the Wisconsin Parental Choice site by scrolling down the page. Refer to the Income Limits section for additional details on calculating your family income.
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Racine, Wisconsin.
- Educational Status: Students entering K-12 grades who are ages 4 – 20 on or before September 1 are eligible to apply. A student must be at least the following age on or before September 1: 4 years old for K4, 5 years old for K5 and 6 years old for grade 1.
- School Requirements: Funds can be used at eligible private schools< that meet state standards. Be sure to select the Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP) link to find an eligible school.
- Application Window: There are multiple application time periods depending upon the private school you select. You can find this information on the school list. Be sure to select the Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP) link.
- Other Wisconsin Private School Choice Programs: In addition to the RPCP, Wisconsin also offers Private School Choice Programs (Choice or Choice Program) for Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP) and Wisconsin Parental Choice Program or statewide program (WPCP). The state also offers the Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP).
Using Your Funds
Wisconsin will pay the RPCP private school for each eligible Choice pupil attending the school. The first two payments (in September and November) are sent to the school where the student is enrolled and attending on the 3rd Friday in September. The second two payments (in February and May) are sent to the school where the student is enrolled and attending on the 2nd Friday in January.
Schools may charge other fees not covered by the RPCP voucher. Parents are responsible for any other fees charged by the school and should discuss them directly with the school.
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the student meets the income and Racine Unified School District boundaries residency requirements. Refer to the Parent FAQ for additional important details on the requirements and the operation of the RPCP program.
- Choose an Eligible School: Select a private school that participates in the program. Ensure your child will be enrolled by the school by using their application process. Be sure to select the Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP) link.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including proof of income and residency. See the Application Checklist section of the Wisconsin Parental Choice site (middle of page).
- Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the Wisconsin Parental Choice site during the open enrollment period. Be sure to select the Racine Parental Choice Program (RPCP).
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
- Renewal: Should you wish to remain in the program, you will need to submit an application each year.
For other Wisconsin School Choice Programs: Refer to our Wisconsin State Summary.