Tennessee’s Education Freedom Scholarship program has drawn over 50,000 applications — far exceeding expectations — but lawmakers from both parties say they still have unanswered questions about where the money is going and who is benefiting.
In its first year, the program awarded $7,295 scholarships to 20,000 students. It’s slated to expand by 5,000 students annually. The latest round of applications, opened Monday, includes both returning and new applicants.
Governor Bill Lee touted the demand as a sign of parental enthusiasm for school choice. “It’s clear that Tennessee parents want choices when it comes to their child’s education,” Lee said, promising to work with the General Assembly to expand the number of scholarships next year.
But critics say the program, approved during a contentious 2025 special session, hasn’t lived up to its mission.
Senate Democratic Caucus Chairwoman London Lamar argued the scholarships are largely being used by students already enrolled in private schools. “It was marketed as a way to help low-performing or disadvantaged students access private schools. That’s not what’s happening,” she said.
Even Republican lawmakers are expressing doubts. Rep. Jody Barrett and Sen. Page Walley have introduced a bill that would require the Department of Education to produce an annual report on the recipients, in a bid to increase accountability.
“The biggest concern is making sure that taxpayer dollars are being used effectively and for the purpose the bill claims to serve,” Barrett said.
The program also faces a lawsuit from five advocacy organizations, representing 10 plaintiffs, who claim it diverts funds from public schools and discriminates against students with disabilities. The case is pending in Davidson County Chancery Court.
The first-year cost of the program totaled $144 million, raising questions about funding future expansions. Governor Lee has yet to release his budget proposal, expected in early February.
Despite criticism, Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds called the demand for scholarships a “clear indicator” of success, encouraging families to apply before the January 31 deadline.
