Statehouse policy and politics
Lawmakers approved a cellphone ban and new turnaround model for public schools, but a bill targeting undocumented students failed.
Lawmakers approve a forensic audit and vow to keep the legislation alive.
Legislation approved Monday introduces a new intervention model for low-performing schools before the 2026-27 school year.
The legislation outlines how elected board members could be removed and replaced, and calls for prior review of large contracts and expenditures.
The controversial ‘success sequence’ bill heads to Gov. Bill Lee for his signature. It would be required beginning in the 2026-27 school year.
Revised legislation would allow districts to charge families tuition for students who aren’t in the country legally, in a challenge to federal law.
The proposals are unconstitutional, the sponsors acknowledge. Enactment could set up a challenge to federal protections in place since 1982.
Elected board would continue in an ‘advisory capacity.’ Critics warn that the bill could open the door for the state to encroach on local control in other districts.
Two groups want to open the first charter schools for at-risk students under a new state law.
‘We most heartily agree with President Trump,’ says a resolution urging teachers to fall in line.
The planning foreshadows changes ahead for the state’s most ambitious and aggressive school turnaround model
A state panel, whose members are appointed by Gov. Bill Lee, would have more authority over charter growth.
Questions emerge about which company will manage the program, and how the state will verify students’ legal residency.
Minimum teacher pay would see a bump under Lee’s proposed budget.
The Republican-backed Tennessee bill challenges legal precedent established more than 40 years ago in Plyler v. Doe.
Takeover talk has swirled over the firing of Memphis school Superintendent Marie Feagins
The special legislative session made it look easy, but a timeline shows the embrace of school vouchers was never a foregone conclusion.
Lawmakers defeat amendments seeking to strengthen accountability and protections for students with disabilities.
Statewide plan is for all kids, not just disadvantaged ones, says sponsor
65% of vouchers would likely go to students who already attend private schools, the analysis says.