(Note — this is filed under “News” rather than “Issues” as it is currently before the General Assembly and subject to change.)
School vouchers will be a major focus during this session of the General Assembly.
In November, Gov. Bill Lee proposed “Education Freedom Scholarships.” Make no mistake — this is a proposal for expanding school vouchers to all counties (including Maury, Williamson, Marshall, Giles, and Lewis) and also to all families (regardless of income). The Lee proposal is similar to what exists in Arizona and Arkansas, where the vast majority of school vouchers are being given to families who are already sending their children to private schools. The Arizona school voucher program is already causing major financial problems for that state.
Much of the mystique of private schools comes from their exclusivity; to the extent that private schools are “better” than public schools, this is mostly the result of smaller class sizes and more engaged parents. Public schools must accept all students within their jurisdiction, including those with special needs and English-as-a-second-language students. Keep in mind that schools will decide whether to accept vouchers and will admit new students on their own criteria.
Despite this, the public schools we have in the 28th District — which are far from perfect — are already producing higher test scores than the private schools that are part of the existing voucher pilot program (see the chart above, provided by researcher Dr. Ezra Howard).
The worst part about Gov. Lee’s voucher proposal is that it will likely result in reduced funding for our public schools while failing to require private schools accepting vouchers to meet state testing requirements. The governor is not merely proposing welfare-for-the-well-heeled; it will actively harm school districts while benefiting “sub-prime” private schools. That is why school boards across Tennessee have passed resolutions opposing Gov. Lee’s plan.
I am well aware that out-of-state lobbyists will make personal attacks on candidates and legislators who oppose them. I have seen sitting state Senators called names because they attended private schools (I attended a private school for a year-and-a-half, though am a proud graduate of a public high school). I want to assure you that I will not be intimidated by such tactics.
I will oppose any expansion of K-12 school vouchers unless there is a clear and compelling plan that ensures quality, focuses the benefits on underprivileged children, is fiscally responsible, and protects public schools. Because Gov. Lee’s plan for “Education Freedom Scholarships” fails on all four counts, he vigorously opposes this proposal.