The DPI is very specific about the documents that must be received for student applications and the information in them. Below are points to remember as you review applications this year:
If a family applied to the program using a Form 1040 (Joint or Indiv), the School must obtain a copy of the Form 1040 and it needs to include the 1st and 2nd page of the Form filed.
The parents’ first and last names on the proof of residency and income verification documents must match the parents’ names in the Online Application System (OAS) exactly.
Make sure one of the DPI-allowed documents for proof of residency is obtained. A complete list of acceptable documents can be found on the WI DPI Private School Choice Programs: DPI Bulletins website.
If a utility or cable bill is used for proof of residency:
- The document should include the service address and the mailing address and they must match.
- Use the last read date or the service date to determine if the document meets the date requirements. The due date is not sufficient.
- Ensure the services include cable and/or landline services. A bill for internet-only services is not permissible.
The proof of residency document should be the full document and should include the full address – house number, street, city, state, and zip code. Photos of only one part of the documentation or envelopes with the address should not be accepted.
If it is determined a student moved as of the 3rd Friday in September, the School is required to obtain new residency documentation dated between August 20, 2022 and September 30, 2022.
Ensure school district verification is obtained in every student’s file and that a method acceptable by DPI was used to verify the school district. A complete list of acceptable methods can be found on the WI DPI Private School Choice Programs: DPI Bulletins website.
