Lawmaker, school leaders weigh pros, cons of Education Freedom scholarships
JACKSON, Tenn. — Tennessee families can now start applying to enroll their children into private schools, with the hope of getting some money knocked off tuition costs.
According to the Tennessee Department of Education, since the launch of the Education Freedom Scholarship program on May 15, more than 38,000 applications have been submitted, with roughly 50% from families with a qualified income.
A total of 20,000 scholarships will be awarded for the 2025-26 school year.
Some lawmakers say families who have applied say they are pleased with the application process and the ability to now have options and opportunities when it comes to their children’s education.
“This is going to mean the difference in their children being at a school that they choose, that’s best for them, versus something they are forced by someone else to attend,” said State Representative Chris Todd.
Public school officials say public schools remain the best choice for students and families.
In a statement from Superintendent Dr. Marlon King with Jackson-Madison County School System, he addresses funding.
He says in part:
“Recently, with private schools now accepting vouchers, we find ourselves navigating a new landscape where public dollars are being used to fund private education.
Unlike many private institutions, public schools serve every child who walks through the door, regardless of background, income, or ability.”
Dr. King goes on to say:
“The introduction of private school vouchers creates a healthy sense of competition; however, it is important to recognize that private schools have the freedom to choose whom they enroll, while public schools do not have that option. In reality, everyone has a choice—except the public schools.”
Some things parents could consider before applying are: the program reserves half of the available scholarships for students with disabilities or those from low-income households. Private schools are not mandated to provide individualized education programs–or IEPs for students with disabilities like public schools. And private schools may not offer transportation to and from school for students.
There is also no confirmation how many vouchers will go to new students or those already enrolled.
According to Judy Brown, head of Trinity Christian Academy in Jackson, she says the vouchers do benefit some current families. Eligible families can receive $7,295 per child for the year, the vouchers do not cover all expenses.
As for TCA, tuition exceeds that amount. Families would be responsible for the remainder of tuition and other admission costs. However, there is financial aid through the school that families can apply for.
Currently, schools are in a waiting period, with no vouchers distributed yet to families.
Any Tennessee student who is a U.S. Citizen and is in grades K-12 is eligible to apply. Click here for more details.
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