State Sen. Ken Yager on Education Freedom Act 2025

‘It is a good deal for parents and a good deal for our public schools’- Sen. Ken Yager

By Ken Yager

NASHVILLE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF)- Like many in our district, safeguarding funding for rural school districts is a top priority for me. Historically, I have opposed voucher programs due to concerns about the potential loss of funding for public schools. However, after closely reviewing Governor Lee’s Education Freedom Act of 2025, I found that it directly addresses these concerns. This year’s legislation is unlike any school choice proposal I have ever seen. It is a good deal for parents and a good deal for our public schools. It includes financial safeguards to ensure that no public school will lose funding due to the implementation of Education Freedom Scholarships or changes in enrollment. These protections were essential to earning my support for the bill. By voting in favor of the Education Freedom Act, I aim to give parents across Tennessee the ability to choose the best educational path for their children while ensuring the strength and stability of public schools.

TOP PHOTO: State Sen. Ken Yager campaigned in July 2024 on the grounds of the Campbell County Courthouse.

As a former public school teacher and a proud product of the public school system, I deeply understand the transformative power of a quality education. Growing up, I was fortunate to attend top-notch public schools, which changed the trajectory of my life. I remain unwavering in my commitment to supporting public education, as I have throughout my career. 

However, I recognize that not all students across our state have access to the same quality of education. School choice is a critical tool for expanding educational opportunities and empowering parents to select the best options for their children regardless of income or zip code. Every child learns differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution in education. School choice provides families the flexibility to pursue what works best for their unique needs.

We are fortunate in our district to have many excellent public schools. However, we must ensure that all students across Tennessee have access to quality education and are not trapped in failing or unfit schools. That said, I firmly believe that public schools will remain the best option for the vast majority of students statewide. 

Let me reiterate: my steadfast support for public education has not wavered and never will. I am committed to assisting our school districts, teachers, and parents in any way I can. I will continue to be your advocate at the Capitol, and I look forward to engaging in further conversations about this and other issues affecting public education. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-02/11/2025-6AM)