Dustin Park passionately advocated for public schools during the Blount County School Board meeting on January 9, 2025, highlighting the dangers of school voucher programs. Park, a resident of District 5 and a father of a child with Down syndrome, argued that vouchers discriminate against students with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. He emphasized that programs like the inclusive basketball initiative, which benefits all students, would not exist in private schools and are at risk if public funding is diverted through vouchers.

Park pointed out that the first voucher bill passed in Tennessee in 2015 specifically targeted children with disabilities, forcing families to waive their rights to a free and appropriate public education. He noted that private schools are not required to follow the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which protects these rights.

He also raised concerns about the financial implications of voucher programs, citing examples from other states. Florida spends $4.5 billion annually on vouchers, while Arizona allocates $1 billion, leading to cuts in essential services. Park urged the board to pass a resolution supporting public schools, reinforcing the need for inclusive education for all children in Blount County.

The discussion underscored a growing concern among community members about the impact of school vouchers on public education and the importance of maintaining funding for inclusive programs that serve all students.