NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP/WMOT) — A new poll by Middle Tennessee State University shows overwhelming support for Gov. Bill Haslam's program to make community college and technical schools free for upcoming graduates.
The poll found that 79 percent approve of the program known as Tennessee Promise. The poll showed 12 percent against it, 8 percent were unsure and the rest gave no answer.
Here’s how the governor described Tennessee Promise when he introduced the initiative last year.
“Through Tennessee Promise, we are fighting the rising cost of higher education and we are raising our expectations as a state. We are committed to making a clear statement to families that education beyond high school is a priority in Tennessee.”
About 90 percent of high school seniors have registered with the state to utilize Tennessee funds. The first scholarships will be awarded for classes that begin this fall.