Understanding the Opposition to Vouchers in Oak Ridge: Key Insights and Community Perspectives

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Retired Teacher Voices Concerns About School Vouchers

Marsha Livingston, a retired teacher from Anderson County, recently shared her views on Governor Bill Lee’s voucher proposal with the League of Women Voters of Oak Ridge. She firmly opposes the idea, which she believes is flawed.

Livingston points to data showing that students in public schools in Tennessee typically perform better on tests than those in private schools that receive public funding. Her analysis compares two years of educational outcomes, highlighting that public schools often lead in student achievement.

She quoted Andy Spears, the editor of the Tennessee Education Report, who stated, “With little evidence of positive results and new data suggesting potential harms, it’s puzzling why lawmakers would pursue a voucher system in Tennessee.”

The conversation around school vouchers remains heated, with many questioning their effectiveness. Parents and educators continue to advocate for fully funded public education as the priority for student success.