Clarksville Leaders to Hold Press Conference Opposing School Vouchers

Clarksville, TN – In a significant move to protect the integrity of public education, the Clarksville-Montgomery County School Board has passed a resolution opposing school vouchers. Sponsored by board member Carol Berry, the resolution was adopted during the board’s March meeting held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

In response to the resolution’s passage, teacher Stefi Outlaw with CMCEA, NAACP President Jimmie Garland, and resolution sponsors School Board Member Carol Berry, City Councilmember Karen Reynolds, and County Commissioner Lisa Prichard will deliver remarks at a press conference on Friday, March 29 at 12:00 p.m. Location to be announced.

You can stream this press conference from our Facebook page and Youtube.

The resolution solidifies the School Board’s commitment to preserving Article XI, Section 12 of the Tennessee Constitution, which guarantees free and quality public education to all children, including those with disabilities.

The resolution addresses concerns over the transfer of public funds to private entities, which are not held accountable to the same standards as public schools, via school vouchers. Vouchers lead to fewer resources and services for public school students.

A similar resolution, proposed by Councilperson Karen Reynolds (RESOLUTION 38-2023-24), was adopted on March 7, 2024, by the Clarksville City Council. Another resolution, sponsored by County Commissioner Lisa Prichard, is scheduled for a vote by the County Commission on April 8, 2024.