Pastors, Parents Oppose Rejection of Education Funds

Group says federal funding helps kids across the state

A group of Tennessee pastors and parents held a press conference highlighting the importance of federal funding for public schools. The group said it opposes a proposal by House Speaker Cameron Sexton to reject the $1.8 billion the state receives from the federal government to support various school-based programs.

A legislative committee has been holding hearings on the proposal this week.

Rev. Matt Steinhauer, Interim Pastor of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Franklin, said, "As a Christian pastor and father of 3 children, one of whom is intellectually disabled who attended and graduated from TN public schools, I firmly believe that all Tennessee children, no matter where they live in the state, the color of their skin, or their ability level, are valuable and they deserve leaders who will ensure students have everything they need to thrive at school and succeed in the classroom and beyond. This is why I cannot begin to comprehend why there is currently a panel of elected leaders meeting to consider rejecting over $1 billion in annual funding annually to Tennessee children in our public schools."

Advocates pointed out that rejecting federal funds could have a negative impact on children with disabilities who attend public schools.

Rev. Ella Clay, Senior Pastor of Historic First Community Church in Nashville said, "Most Tennesseans believe that every child should have the freedom to learn and pursue their dreams in a high quality, well resourced public school. The majority of Tennessee children receive their education in public schools, and if they follow through with this plan to refuse federal funding the children who will be adversely affected are those with disabilities, those who live in rural areas, and those whose families fall into the category of low income. As a pastor, I know that Jesus calls those of us who claim the Christian faith to prioritize children and to take care of those in need, and that is precisely who this agenda would hurt the most!"

Joey Brown of Rutherford County, an educator and parent of four children, three of whom have IEPS, said:

"The only thing worse than rejecting over $1 billion is playing political football with the most vulnerable kids, and upending hundreds of thousands of hardworking families across the state. For Tennessee schools it's already rock bottom around here for kids with disabilities. But Speaker Sexton is determined to prove that rock bottom has a basement."

Photo byBrandon HooperonUnsplash