Since 2008, the Dan and Margaret Maddox Fund has partnered with nonprofit organizations in Middle Tennessee to improve the lives of young people across Middle Tennessee. Core to this work is our commitment to addressing the systemic injustices that have marginalized communities and continue to leave many behind. School vouchers will be a detriment to ensuring that all children can access high-quality educational opportunities.
School vouchers divert resources away from already underfunded public schools and further burden families facing poverty. Public schools in Tennessee lack the resources they need for students to thrive and vouchers would magnify the problem. It is expected that the voucher proposal will cost the state of Tennessee over $1.1 billion over the next five years. 51% of public school students will get less in state funding than voucher recipients will.
Private schools are also not accountable for serving students and families with the greatest needs. Private schools are not required to offer the same protections and services that guarantee safe environments and equitable education opportunities for all students including students with disabilities, English language learners, and LGBTQ+ students. Vouchers also fail to benefit rural students where private school options are limited.
Most importantly, data shows that vouchers do not lead to better academic outcomes. MNPS students outperformed voucher users in Nashville. ESA/voucher participants in Nashville.
Here are some resources from our partners to learn more about vouchers:
