Unlocking the Education Freedom Act: Essential Insights You Need to Know – WBBJ TV

On January 14, 2025, Tennessee lawmakers will gather for their first session of the year. One major topic on the agenda is the “Education Freedom Act.” This act could change the way students and families choose schools in the state.

Governor Bill Lee first introduced the Education Freedom Act in November 2023. He is bringing it back for discussion this year. The goal of the act is to give parents more control over their children’s education. It aims to let families choose schools that fit their needs, using taxpayer dollars to fund those choices.

Currently, three counties—Shelby, Davidson, and Hamilton—are part of a pilot program under this act. Governor Lee wants to expand this program to all 95 counties in Tennessee.

Recently, State Senator Page Walley and Representative Johnny Shaw shared their thoughts on the act. Walley expressed some concern. He noted that the current pilot program’s results won’t be fully evaluated until 2026, yet the state is planning to push this change statewide before that evaluation is complete.

This act also proposes a scholarship program to help students with costs related to education, such as tuition, uniforms, and textbooks. However, it won’t provide assistance for homeschooled students.

Shaw pointed out that while some students might benefit from the scholarships, this could mean less funding for other students in the community. He highlighted that there is concern about whether schools will face different funding levels for programs like sports, but the act promises to keep public school funding consistent.

Additionally, Shaw mentioned a worry he heard from a private school board member about potentially raising tuition by the same amount as the vouchers provided. This could mean little to no real benefit for the students who need it most.

Both lawmakers have expressed support for the act, but only if their concerns are addressed. The discussion surrounding the Education Freedom Act continues to evolve, and its impact on Tennessee’s educational landscape remains to be seen.

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