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Contributed commentary by state Rep. Aron Maberry, District 68:

Tennessee made history on Jan. 30 when the 114th Tennessee General Assembly passed the Education Freedom Act (EFA), a landmark bill that I was proud to co-sponsor that establishes statewide school choice and empowers parents to choose the best fit for their child. As a long-time advocate for both public schools and school choice, I firmly believe this bill is a win for students, parents, and educators. Let’s break down why it’s so significant.

Protecting public school funding

One of the most important aspects of the EFA is its commitment to maintaining and increasing public school funding. A key provision of the bill ensures that public school districts will not lose a single dollar due to Education Freedom Scholarships (EFS). The “hold-harmless” provision guarantees public schools maintain funding based on the highest recent enrollment, regardless of any enrollment drops, providing long-term financial stability while expanding options for families.

Additionally, the bill designates funds for school repairs, offers a $2,000 teacher bonus and supports fast-growing districts.

Cost and fiscal responsibility

The bill’s cost is approximately $447 million, with $148 million annually for scholarships. A misconception is that the EFA will lead to tax increases, but Tennessee has consistently increased school funding for years while continuing to cut taxes.

Tennessee Republicans have invested $3.8 billion new dollars in public education over the last decade, and more than $1 billion in teacher pay raises during this time. Tennessee remains one of the lowest-taxed states in the nation and collects zero income tax. The state is in strong financial shape with a substantial surplus, a robust rainy-day fund and a AAA credit rating. Legislators are even considering eliminating the grocery tax.

This bill continues that legacy of prudent financial stewardship while expanding educational opportunities.

Accountability and oversight

Accountability remains a crucial component of this legislation. Students receiving an EFS will be required to take a nationally norm-referenced test, like TCAP or the ACT, allowing the Legislature to assess student progress.

By offering various testing options, we can compare Tennessee students not only to those in our public schools but also those in public, private and charter schools nationwide. This will ensure a broad and accurate assessment of student achievement.

Expanding opportunity: Who benefits?

The EFA prioritizes students in need, offering 20,000 scholarships starting in the 2025-26 school year, with 10,000 reserved for students at or below 300% of income qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch (beginning the 2026-27 school year 100% of income qualifying is weighted first) and those with disabilities.

Most private schools also provide their own scholarships that could cover costs beyond the $7,075 scholarship.

Public support and national recognition

A poll of more than 1,000 of the state’s registered voters found that 67% of Tennesseans support EFS, including 73% of Republicans, 25% of Democrats and 57% of independents.

President Donald Trump has endorsed the bill, and his recent executive order prioritizes federal funding for school choice, ensuring Tennessee has additional resources for EFS.

Addressing common concerns

Critics say that public funds shouldn’t go to private schools. But, this concept is not exclusive to the EFA. Tennessee’s HOPE Scholarship is a prime example of public funds that can be used at any public or private university in the state to help fund a student’s education. If we fund an 18-year-old’s education at a private institution, why not an 8-year-old’s?

Additionally, concerns over “government involvement” in private education are misplaced. The EFA ensures schools maintain their independence and educational freedom.

A future of educational freedom

My support for this bill isn’t due to shortcomings in public schools — I love and support Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools. My wife and I are proud graduates, and our three children attend CMCSS. This is about giving parents the freedom to choose the best educational path for their children.

As a legislator, I will always stand for policies that prioritize students, empower parents, and strengthen our education system.

I have long supported school choice, dating far before running for state representative, and campaigned on delivering this for Montgomery County. I’m proud to have voted for this transformative legislation and to have fulfilled that promise.

Aron Maberry