NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -
Supporters and opponents of the controversial ideal to bring school vouchers to Tennessee aren't waiting for the legislative session to start.
It has become a key election issue as a task force appointed by Gov. Bill Haslam works to try and figure out the best way to bring vouchers to Tennessee. The school vouchers would allow certain students to use state money to attend a private or public school of their choice.
Last year, just as talk about school vouchers started to heat up, Haslam appointed the task force and asked lawmakers to set the issue aside for a year. But there are some people who already feel vouchers are a done deal.
"I would say the recommendation of the task force is pretty predictable," said Gera Summerford, with the Tennessee Education Association.
The original plan that was tabled would have made many Metro school students eligible.
"Every child is different, and it's important we recognize that and give parents the ability to put their kids in the schools that best serve their needs," said Justin Owen, with the Beacon Center of Tennessee.
Opponents believe the plan would drain public schools of much-needed resources in favor of private schools with little accountability.
Haslam said if there is going to be a program, students need enough money to actually be able to attend private schools while also making sure public schools aren't wrecked.
"What we have to be convinced of is that it will make enough difference, and we're not looking for just an incremental difference. We're looking at something works both academically and financially," Haslam said.
It has already become an election issue this year, with pro-voucher political action committees sinking thousands of dollars into primary races.
But the TEA will also be making it a key issue for its candidate endorsements.
"Someone who support public schools and really wants to provide the best opportunities for all children is not someone who is usually going to support a voucher system," Summerford said.
The voucher task force met Thursday and has another meeting set for September. Its recommendations are due to the governor sometime in November.
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