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Contribution by state Rep. Aron Maberry, District 68:
Tennessee made a big step forward on January 30 by passing the Education Freedom Act (EFA). I was honored to co-sponsor this bill, which allows parents to have a say in their child’s education. As someone who cares about public schools as well as school choice, I see this as a positive change for students, parents, and teachers. Here’s why this bill is important.
Protecting public school funding
The EFA includes a promise to keep and even boost funding for public schools. Thanks to a special rule, schools won’t lose any money because of the new Education Freedom Scholarships (EFS). This “hold-harmless” provision helps ensure that public schools keep their funding based on their highest student enrollment numbers. This means schools can plan for the future without worrying about funding dipping.
The bill also allocates money for school repairs, offers a $2,000 bonus for teachers, and supports fast-growing school districts.
Cost and fiscal responsibility
The EFA will have an estimated cost of $447 million, including $148 million annually for scholarships. Some might worry this will lead to higher taxes, but Tennessee has managed to boost school funding while lowering taxes. Over the last decade, Tennessee Republicans have added $3.8 billion to public education and raised teacher pay by over $1 billion. Plus, Tennessee does not have an income tax and is in a solid financial position with a healthy surplus and a strong credit rating.
Accountability and oversight
The EFA emphasizes accountability. Students receiving an EFS will take nationally recognized tests like TCAP or ACT to track their growth. By using different testing options, we can compare Tennessee students not just with peers in public schools, but also with those in private and charter schools across the country.
Expanding opportunities
The EFA focuses on assisting students who need it the most. It offers 20,000 scholarships starting in the 2025-26 school year, with 10,000 reserved for families who are financially challenged or for students with disabilities. Many private schools also offer scholarships that might cover costs beyond the $7,075 grant.
Public support
A recent poll shows that 67% of Tennessee voters support the EFS. Support comes from various political backgrounds, with 73% of Republicans, 25% of Democrats, and 57% of independents in favor. President Donald Trump has also backed this bill, encouraging increased federal funding for school choice.
Addressing concerns
Critics question whether public funds should be used for private schools. However, programs like Tennessee’s HOPE Scholarship already allow public money to help students attend any public or private college. If we can support an 18-year-old’s education at a private school, why not an 8-year-old in elementary school?
Some fear government influence in private education, but the EFA guarantees that schools maintain their independence and freedom.
Supporting educational freedom
I support this bill, not because I doubt our public schools—my wife and I are proud graduates, and our children attend the Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools (CMCSS). This is about giving parents the right to choose the best education for their kids.
I’ll always advocate for policies that focus on students, empower parents, and improve our education system. My commitment to school choice has been strong for years, even before I ran for office. I’m proud to have voted for this transformative legislation and to have kept that promise to my community.
Aron Maberry
