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

School choice is top of mind for Tennessee Republicans. The Education Freedom Act of 2025 gives 20,000 students around $7,000 to give them the option 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 he rules them out. “A $7,000 voucher really isn’t going to meet the needs of most special education kids,” he said.

Education experts like Bowman said that because private schools don’t get as much state money as public schools to meet the needs of students with disabilities, it forces parents to send their children to public schools. Private schools are not required to spend money set aside for special needs programs.

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

We turned to Brian Clontz, a parent of a special needs child who went to a private school for his perspective. Supports the school voucher program despite opposition.

“I don’t want to be told this is what’s 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 with 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-home students at a Category 1, 2, 3 private school are eligible for an Educational Freedom Grant.

That is, Brian’s son would not have been eligible for the scholarship because it excludes those who are homeschooled.

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

Clontz and Bowman said the bill needs to be tweaked before they can sign it, but they believe in school choice.

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