Grothman, Jacque Offer Tax Credit Proposal for
Increased Access to Independent and Religious Schools

Today, Senator Glenn Grothman (R-West Bend) and Representative Andre Jacque (R-Bellevue) announced they will be introducing legislation providing a non-refundable tax credit for religious and independent schools beginning in school year 2012-2013.   The credit will start at $1,500 per year for every first grade student and $2,500 for every ninth grade student.  The following year, second and tenth graders will be added to the program with additional years added each year until all students will be covered by the 2021 school year.

“With the government already subsidizing private education by up to $6,500 per year for Milwaukee residents, the proposal would offer assistance, albeit a lesser amount, for outstate parents who want an alternative to the public schools for their children,” said Grothman.  “Whether their concerns are Wisconsin’s declining test scores, a radical new sex education program pushed through the Legislature last year, or public school teachers proselytizing a liberal political agenda in their schools, it is unfair not to provide a little assistance to independent-minded parents.” 

“The taxpayers already provide over $12,000 per year per child in the government schools, so any parent who is persuaded to enroll their children in the private schools creates a huge tax savings for Wisconsin’s taxpayers,” said Grothman.

“As a proud supporter of charter school expansion, open enrollment for public schools, and non-public school choice it is very important to be consistent in offering families in my district, and across the state, access to the full range of educational alternatives.  When it comes to educational instruction, one type doesn’t fit all,” said Representative Jacque, further noting that the proposal would not reduce state public school funding.  “We should always look at enhancing our state educational offerings to benefit students,” added Jacque.

“Private school enrollment has declined in recent years in part because of the proliferation of 4-year-old kindergarten.  The current budget, which allows for a further expansion of 4-year-old kindergarten despite the state’s fiscal shape, will have a further negative impact on private school enrollment,” said Grothman. 

“This is a frugal and modest proposal that can make a dramatic impact.  Just this week, we’ve heard a bill dedicating $7,500 in government funds to parents who send their children to charter schools,” said Jacque.

http://legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/sen20/news/Press/2011/pr2011-003.asp

http://legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/sen20/news/Press/2011/PSTC-Bill.pdf

Coffee with the Principal: Monday, February 21 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Stop by for snacks and refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere to learn more about St. Andrew Parish School and have any questions answered. Parents of current and prospective students are welcome. The focus will be on St. A's middle school program and middle school teacher Deb Amici will also be available to answer any questions. Held in the teachers lounge of the school, enter through the main entrance of the school.

A HUGE "THANK YOU" goes out to Dan Fahey of Jorndt Fahey Remodeling and to Chad Maass of Stebintz Builders for volunteering their time to install our new cabinetry in the Concessions area.  Also, to Kurt Timmerman for helping Dan and Chad.  The area and cabinetry looks AWESOME!  Thanks again!

Sunday, Jan 30 from 10:30 - noon.  The Milwaukee art museum will also be there doing projects with the kids. Come see the school, meet teachers, students, ask questions, get answers!

Listen to the St. Andrew Parish School Kids on Relevant Radio 100.1 FM on Christmas Eve & Day, and December 26 at 6:00am. You can also listen online instead of your radio.