Tennessee voucher students receive more state funding per pupil than public school students, data shows

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — New data reveals that Tennessee's school voucher recipients are receiving more state funding per student than their public school counterparts, sparking criticism from Democratic lawmakers who argue the program could potentially divert resources from public education.

According to state data, voucher recipients receive an average of $7,295 in state funds annually, while public school students receive $7,023 — a difference of $272 per student. "And now they're stealing more money per pupil and putting it in private hands, and it's just not right," said Rep. John Ray Clemmons, a Nashville Democrat who also serves as the House Democratic Caucus Chair. "Again, an example of the haves and have nots," Clemmons said.

Public schools still receive more overall funding

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