Select Committee on Economics: Stresses importance of school choice during Milwaukee housing hearing

Milwaukee, WI – The Special Committee on Economics held a hearing in which it discussed the housing and economic challenges facing the City of Milwaukee, with a particular focus on redlining. Ranking member Bryan Steil (WI-01) emphasized the critical need to seek solutions that can help the next generation overcome historical barriers and thrive economically, particularly by promoting school choice.

Milwaukee has one of the oldest school choice programs in the country, with nearly 30,000 students currently enrolled. The school choice is extremely popular in the Milwaukee area and has supporters on both sides of the aisle. During the hearing, Ranking Member Steil emphasized the need for parents to have access to the best educational opportunities so that children can attend a school that is best suited to them.

“We can have a discussion about what role school choice can play in ensuring that everyone can choose the school that is best suited for their child to thrive, regardless of the zip code they live in. It is absolutely necessary politics that we must focus on,” said ranking member Bryan Steil.

The Republican witness for this hearing was Shaun Luehring, President of LUMIN Schools since 2019. Founded in 2002, LUMIN Schools has grown to 8 campuses and nearly 1,400 students.
“Parents know that when they choose a school, they are not just choosing a curriculum or programs, they are also choosing a culture, a philosophy, values, mentors, and ultimately opening doors to the future… I’ve spoken to countless parents and haven’t met however, a parent who doesn’t want to choose the best school for their child because they believe in the power of education to transform lives.” said Mr. Shaun Luehring.

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