Tennessee’s School Choice Breakthrough: A Lifeline for Families

After years of tireless advocacy and personal sacrifice, Tennessee has passed universal school choice—and for families like Drew Middletown’s, it couldn’t have come at a better time.

In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tori Venable, Tennessee State Director for Americans for Prosperity, and Drew Middletown, a Tennessee dad who’s navigated the heartbreak and hope of finding the right education for his son with autism. With the help of programs like the Individualized Education Account (IEA) and Katie Beckett, Drew was able to move his son into a school where he now thrives. Now, thanks to Tennessee’s new Education Freedom Accounts, his daughter will be able to attend that same school too.

Tori shares the behind-the-scenes journey—nearly a decade in the making—that led to this transformational law. From expanding access for special needs students to breaking barriers for low-income families, this win wasn’t easy. But it’s now real: 20,000 scholarships available across the state, including priority for families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty line.

This isn’t just policy—it’s personal. Drew and Tori talk about what this law means for real people, real families, and a generation of students who now have a shot at a brighter future.

Whether you’re a parent, policymaker, or education advocate, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that when families are empowered, students succeed—and when citizens fight for freedom, change happens.