Tennessee Department of Education data notes ‘significant gains’ in Education Savings Account program's second year amid push to expand school choice
New data from the Tennessee Department of Education notes growing participation in the state’s Education Savings Account program as more and more parents express interest in expanding school choice.
According to the department’s 2023-24 Tennessee Education Savings Account report, participation in Tennessee’s ESA program grew by 362 percent in its second year, with 2,088 students enrolled in non-public schools using ESA funds.
The department also announced “significant gains” in academic outcomes for students taking advantage of the program, which currently allows students who are zoned to attend a Memphis-Shelby County Public School, a Metro Nashville Public School, a Hamilton County Public School or a school that was in the Achievement School District (ASD) on May 24, 2019, to use state and local funding for private school enrollment. The growth comes as lawmakers consider expanding the program for universal school choice next year.
“A quality education has the power to change the trajectory of a child’s life, and I’m pleased with the positive gains students are making through enrollment in Tennessee’s Education Savings Account Program,” Gov. Bill Lee said in a public statement. “It’s time to build upon this foundation of progress and deliver school choice for all Tennessee parents through the Education Freedom Act.”
According to the department’s report, 99 percent of participating families reported satisfaction with the program. The report also indicated that ESA students achieved a 4-point increase in English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency and a 6-point increase in Math proficiency on the TCAP between 2022-23 and 2023-24. In addition, ESA students in Memphis-Shelby County outperformed public-school students in ELA and matched their proficiency in Math, while economically disadvantaged students in the ESA program outperformed their public school peers in ELA and Math.
Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds said the department’s recent findings show the value of providing parents with educational options.
“The ESA program provides eligible Tennessee families with added opportunity in finding the best educational environment for their students,” Reynolds said in a public statement. “This report shows families are satisfied with the educational opportunities afforded by the program, and we are encouraged by the academic performance of the students participating.”
To access the full report and list of participating schools, visit www.tn.gov/education.
