School choice
How many students are enrolled in Tennessee’s new voucher program? The state won’t say.
Experts point to factors like surges in private and homeschool options and general population decreases. The losses come with big implications for Memphis-Shelby County Schools’ budget and impending school closures.
Tennessee will spend an average of $7,023 per public school student, nearly $300 less than a new private school voucher. Though public school students will receive more public funds overall given a local government contribution, Democrats and education advocates are criticizing the disparity.
Tennessee isn’t asking where the participants were enrolled before, so it won’t know how many vouchers are going to existing private school students.
Tennessee received over 33,000 applications just hours after it launched the voucher program, which Gov. Bill Lee applauded.
Two groups want to open the first charter schools for at-risk students under a new state law.
The planning foreshadows changes ahead for the state’s most ambitious and aggressive school turnaround model
A state panel, whose members are appointed by Gov. Bill Lee, would have more authority over charter growth.
Questions emerge about which company will manage the program, and how the state will verify students’ legal residency.
The special legislative session made it look easy, but a timeline shows the embrace of school vouchers was never a foregone conclusion.
Lawmakers defeat amendments seeking to strengthen accountability and protections for students with disabilities.
Statewide plan is for all kids, not just disadvantaged ones, says sponsor
65% of vouchers would likely go to students who already attend private schools, the analysis says.
Disaster relief and preparations for Trump immigration policy will also be on the agenda.
The latest bill generates many of the same concerns that helped sink his 2024 proposal.
Lee wants his Education Freedom plan up and running for the 2025-26 school year.
So-called ‘opportunity’ charter schools will be held to a different standard
'We are not for sale,’ say teachers who want more meaningful investments in public schools.
Will the GOP supermajority be able to agree on a universal plan this time?
Tennessee charter commission members express little confidence in options within Memphis-Shelby County Schools.