Gov. Lee introduces act that could allow students to attend any school they choose

FOLLOW UP: School board member voices concerns over TN’s newly proposed scholarship act

JACKSON, Tenn. — Tennessee state leaders are proposing a new act that could allow students to go to any school they choose.

“Today we are unveiling the Tennessee Education Freedom Scholarship Act,” Governor Bill Lee stated. “Our plan is to establish a new statewide school choice program, that will empower parents with the freedom to choose the right education for their child.”

This plan rolls into effect for the 2024-2025 school year. The act will give 20,000 students scholarships to attend a school of their choice regardless of zones, county lines, or even zip codes.

Recipients will include 10,000 students who are at or below 300% of the federal poverty level, have a disability, or are eligible for the existing ESA pilot program.

10,000 additional scholarships will be available to a universal pool of students. So, for each scholarship, how much per student? Around $7,000 each.

“What I believe to be possible is that we can have the best public schools in the country and we can provide choice to every family in this state,” added Lee.

After this first year, Governor Lee says the plan will expand to include “All Tennessee students entitled to attend a public school, prioritizing currently enrolled students, low-income, and public school students if demand exceeds available funding.”

Tennessee is the ninth state in the country to move toward education freedom.

The governor’s plan will still need to be approved by the state legislature.

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