Critics claim the school voucher law excludes children with special needs, which supporters say is untrue

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Critics of the school voucher law argue that it does not meet the needs of special education students. They said there is not enough funding in private schools to meet the needs of children with disabilities, compared to special needs programs in public schools. Proponents of the vouchers argue that families should be allowed to choose which type of school best suits their needs.

School choice is a top priority for Tennessee Republicans. The Education Freedom Act of 2025 provides 20,000 students with approximately $7,000 to allow them to attend private schools.

But where does that leave students with special needs?

Former special education teacher and CEO of Professional Educators of Tennessee JC Bowman said this excludes them. “A $7,000 voucher is really not going to meet the needs of most special education children,” he said.

Education experts like Bowman said that because private schools do not receive as much state funding as public schools to meet the needs of students with disabilities, this forces parents to send their children to public schools. Private schools are not required to spend money on special needs programs.

“The governor is talking about we want every parent to have a choice. I don’t see a choice for a child with special needs,” Bowman said.

We turned to Brian Clontz, a parent with a child with special needs who attended a private school for his perspective. He supports the school voucher program, despite the opposition.

“I don’t want to be told this is best for my child. I want to choose what is best for my child,” he said. His son Tristan Clontz has autism. Brian said Tristan took online classes at his private school, which was essential to his education.

Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson’s staff told FOX 17 News that only students enrolled as non-homeschoolers at a Category 1,2,3 private school are eligible for an Education Freedom Scholarship.

This means that Brian’s son would not have qualified for the grant as it excludes those who are homeschooled.

“I don’t think it’s fair,” Brian said, “but on the other hand, it’s our money, it’s our tax money. We should be able to decide what’s best for our kids.”

Clontz and Bowman say the bill needs refinement before they can sign it, but believe in school choice.

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