KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Leaders at Knox County Schools are considering a symbolic resolution that would formally condemn a proposal from Governor Bill Lee to universally a program allowing public dollars to be used for non-public education. On Monday, as they gathered for a work session, organizers held a rally calling for the resolution to pass.
"We have to protect public schools," said Dewayne Emert, a retired teacher at the rally. "Putting money into public education is the best investment."
Lee's proposal would offer scholarships for families who want to send children to places other than public schools — including private schools, faith-based schools and charter schools. Those schools may not necessarily follow state education guidelines, and the scholarships are not guaranteed to pay for all expenses.
The proposal is known as the "Education Freedom Scholarship Act." Critics of the proposal said it was a way to use public money to subsidize wealthy families who send their children to private schools. They also emphasized that public education provides opportunities to all students, regardless of background or family income levels.
"Students that walk into a public classroom have equality with every other student," said Emert.
Money for the scholarships would come from the state's general fund as it faces stagnating revenues in lieu of a $1.6 billion expense regarding a business tax. Initially, the program would provide a total of 20,000 vouchers with half going to low-income students. Starting in 2025, vouchers would be given universally as funds allow.
Knox County neighbors said it would dramatically affect a school district that covers urban, suburban and rural areas.
"The resources in East Knoxville are different from resources in West Knoxville," said Joe Maddox, \pastor of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.
Board members seemed divided over the resolution during the work session.
"To me, it's very premature to say, 'Let's do this,'" said Daniel Watson, a board member.
"I think that every child should have those opportunities, every child should have those choices and every parent should as well," said Betsy Henderson, another board member.
They will meet again on Feb. 8 for a regular session, where they are expected to vote on the resolution. Other East Tennessee school districts, including Blount County Schools, have passed resolutions condemning Lee's proposal.