Positive Sign for Educational Freedom in Tennessee

Press release, Tennessee Federation for Children - Today the Tennessee Legislature moved to fill several key leadership positions, including: 

• Rep. Mark White (R-83) will be the Chairman of the House Education Committee. Rep. White has a proven record of supporting student-centered education reforms including public and private choice legislation. 

• Rep. Debra Moody (R-81) will be the Chair of the Curriculum, Testing, and Innovation Subcommittee. Rep. Moody sponsored the pathbreaking legislation that created the Individualized Education Accounts program, Tennessee’s first education savings account designed specifically for students with exceptional needs. Joining her on the sub-committee is Rep. John DeBerry, Jr. (D-90) who has also been a consistent advocate for parents’ right to choose the best educational setting for their children.

• Senator Dolores Gresham (R-26) will once again chair the Senate Education Committee. There is hardly a stronger champion of education in the state Senate. Her broad perspective as someone who represents voters from all walks of life is invaluable. She will be joined by a host educational choice champions including Vice Chair Kelsey and Sen. Bell, both of whom know the power of parents choosing the best fit for their children.

Along with positive movement in committee leadership, additional reason for optimism among supporters of school choice: Speaker of the House Glen Casada has been outspoken about the need for a floor vote on educational choice legislation this session. And, under the leadership of Lt. Gov. McNally, the Senate has consistently demonstrated support for school choice. 

Statement from Shaka Mitchell, Tennessee State Director for the American Federation for Children: 

As students across the state returned to school this month, the Tennessee Federation for Children is glad to welcome members of the 111th General Assembly of Tennessee. These members, in conjunction with recently elected Governor Bill Lee, have the chance to lead the nation in passing bold, comprehensive legislation that improves learning outcomes for all students. Today’s committee appointments show the Senate and House leaders’ commitment to utilizing parent choice as one of many tools to strengthen Tennessee communities.

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