Governor Bill Lee. (Getty Images)
The
Education Freedom Act
, backed by Governor Lee and recently endorsed by several area county mayors—including Greene County’s own Mayor Kevin Morrison—has been at the center of a heated debate. The bill would allow families to use state-funded vouchers to send their children to private institutions, including religious schools. This Wednesday, the Greene County Board of Education will vote on a resolution opposing the proposal.
Proponents argue it would give parents more choice in their children's education, particularly in areas with underperforming schools. However, opponents, including members of the Greene County Board of Education, fear the plan could siphon millions of dollars away from public schools, affecting crucial resources and programs.
A critical moment for Greene County Schools
As reported by local news outlets, the Greene County Board of Education is expected to formally vote on the resolution at their meeting Wednesday afternoon. The board has expressed deep concerns that the voucher system would divert essential public funding from Greene County Schools, which serve over 5,000 students. “The integrity of our public education system is at risk,” said one board member, speaking to a local media house on the condition of anonymity. “We’re committed to providing free and quality education to every child, and this voucher system threatens that,” he added.
The board has also raised concerns about the lack of accountability for private schools receiving public funds. Unlike public schools, private institutions are not subject to the same state regulations, academic standards, or transparency requirements. As reported by WJHL, the
Greene County school board
believes that all educational institutions receiving taxpayer money should be held to the same level of oversight and accountability.
Strong local opposition to the voucher bill
Greene County’s resolution is part of a growing movement among local school boards across Tennessee, many of which are voicing strong opposition to the voucher plan. The board is expected to pass the resolution unanimously, signaling a powerful stand for public education. The decision could have wider implications, as other school districts in the state consider similar measures in response to the voucher bill’s growing momentum in the legislature.
If the resolution passes, Greene County will join other school districts in sending a clear message to the state legislature that protecting public schools should remain a top priority. The vote this Wednesday will be a critical moment in the ongoing debate over the future of education in Tennessee.