By State Sen. Joan Ballweg

I thank Gov. Tony Evers for signing two bills into law which will provide greater flexibility to students and their families to choose the school that best meets their needs.

I’m pleased these two bills were signed into law today (March 26). These proposals were crafted with the input of dedicated and trusted stakeholders.

2021 Wisconsin Act 18 provides temporary flexibility to school districts for the 2021-22 school year to continue offering a virtual option through open enrollment to a non-resident students.

I want to thank the Adams-Friendship School District for their input on this legislation. During the pandemic, many school districts, like Adams-Friendship, offered both in-person and virtual learning options to students. This bill allows them to continue serving their nonresident students in open enrollment though a virtual option for the next school year.

2021 Wisconsin Act 19 changes current law so an application to attend a virtual charter school through full-time open enrollment does not count toward the open enrollment application limit.

There are many reasons a student’s open enrollment application to a public school may be denied leaving students and their families with minimal options to complete their education. Private or home schooling is not feasible for everyone, and this bill provides them with another option to succeed.

To reach Sen. Ballweg with questions or comments please call 608-266-0751 or email Sen.Ballweg@legis.wi.gov.