Funding Reform and Increase Proposal Can Transform Public Education to Supporting Every Student in the State

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Tennesseans for Student Success today released the following statement after Governor Bill Lee (R-Tenn.) and Tennessee Department of Education Commissioner Dr. Penny Schwinn released the details of the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) Act (SB2396/HB2143), legislation aimed at reforming the Basic Education Program (BEP) and creating a new student-based funding formula:  

“A student is more than a child at a desk or a number in a ratio. Every child in Tennessee deserves a public education that understands his or her unique gifts, abilities, and experiences and then works to support his or her learning while unlocking the student’s full potential to succeed,” said TSS President & CEO Adam Lister. “Our current three-decade-old formula for funding state public education makes this obligation to supporting kids more challenging. The Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement proposal to modernize the way we fund every Tennessee public school student represents a desire to improve outcomes for students across the state and from a variety of backgrounds. As we take time to fully analyze this proposal and hold discussions with lawmakers, education leaders, teachers, and parents, we also recognize that now is the time for action. We believe delaying or disengaging in this discussion any longer impedes a generational opportunity to positively impact millions of students. We are also thankful to Governor Lee, the Department of Education, and the General Assembly for their focus on improving outcomes for every student during these discussions. Keeping that focus during the legislative process will bring great optimism for what Tennessee can accomplish together.” 

Learn more about the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) Act at fundingforstudentsuccess.org.