Tennessee’s proposed education funding formula passes the first of many tests

Tennessee Republicans moved the education funding formula, called TISA, past its first subcommittee stop in the House. It’s expected to fund students starting at a little under $7,000 per pupil.

But Nashville Democratic lawmakers asked several questions around why it seems Davidson County schools are getting less additional money from the state than other large school districts. Rep. Harold Love voiced his worry during the meeting.  

“My concern is that as we continue to increase in fiscal capacity. The percent of the state contribution will diminish all while the expectation of Nashville to contribute to that local fiscal capacity share will increase,” said Love.

More: Unlike other big districts, Nashville schools won’t get much of a boost under the state’s proposed funding model. Here’s why.

Love, along with some Republicans, said they worry counties that see growth will have to raise taxes to keep up with the required funding under the proposed formula.  

Some speakers also argued that issues with the current funding formula aren’t solved by the new Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement formula. But those who voted to pass it through the subcommittee say the problems can be worked out as they continue to get more eyes on the legislation.