Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-114 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-114
Support staff - Grievance procedure
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The board of regents, each state university board, and the University of Tennessee shall establish a grievance procedure for all support staff employees. (2) "Support staff" means employees who are neither faculty nor executive, administrative, or professional staff of any institution or board subject to this chapter and the University of Tennessee. (3) Support staff shall be given every opportunity to resolve bona fide grievances through the grievance procedure. Every reasonable effort shall be made to resolve grievances at the lowest possible step in the procedure. (4) Employees using or involved in the grievance procedure shall be entitled to pursue their grievances without fear, restraint, interference, discrimination or reprisal. (b) (1) A grievance must be filed at the appropriate step in the grievance procedure within fifteen (15) working days after the employee receives notice or becomes aware of the action that is the basis for the grievance. (2) "Grievance" means a complaint about one (1) or more of the following matters: (A) Demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause; or (B) Work assignments or conditions of work that violate statute or policy. (3) Any complaint about demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause shall receive a hearing covered under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, part 3. In issues involving unlawful discrimination and harassment, the employee may choose a hearing under that act or the panel hearing. (4) Standard grievance forms shall be developed and made available to support staff at each worksite. No grievance may be denied because a standard form has not been used. (5) The grievance procedure shall include no more than four (4) steps to finality. (6) The grievance procedure shall include the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting within fifteen (15) days after the grievance is filed, and within fifteen (15) days after each subsequent step in the procedure is initiated. (7) The grievant shall receive a written decision with specific reasons stated for the decision within fifteen (15) working days after a face-to-face meeting occurs. (8) The grievant and any material witnesses shall be allowed to testify fully at every step in the grievance procedure. (9) The grievance procedure shall include an unbiased commission or panel as the final step for processing grievances regarding work assignments or conditions of work not otherwise covered in subdivision (b)(3). The decision of the panel is subject to review by the president. (10) At every step in the grievance procedure other than a Uniform Administrative Procedures Act hearing, the grievant shall be entitled to be accompanied and represented by an employee representative from the institution. Other employee representatives may be allowed at the panel hearing at the discretion of the panel chair. (c) The board of regents, each state university board, and the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee shall provide an annual report to the education committee of the senate and the education administration committee of the house of representatives summarizing grievance activities of the previous year. (d) Each institution shall include information regarding the grievance procedure in employee orientations. (e) Each institution governed by the board of regents, a state university board, or the board of trustees for the University of Tennessee shall make the grievance procedure for the institution's support staff employees available on its website. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 891, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 64, s 109, eff. 3/29/2021. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 123, eff. 5/10/2019. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 16, eff. 7/1/2016. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 15, eff. 7/1/2016. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, s 76, eff. 4/17/2015. Acts 1993, ch. 301, § 1; 2011 , ch. 410, § 4 (ff).
(a) (1) The board of regents, each state university board, and the University of Tennessee shall establish a grievance procedure for all support staff employees. (2) "Support staff" means employees who are neither faculty nor executive, administrative, or professional staff of any institution or board subject to this chapter and the University of Tennessee. (3) Support staff shall be given every opportunity to resolve bona fide grievances through the grievance procedure. Every reasonable effort shall be made to resolve grievances at the lowest possible step in the procedure. (4) Employees using or involved in the grievance procedure shall be entitled to pursue their grievances without fear, restraint, interference, discrimination or reprisal.
(1) The board of regents, each state university board, and the University of Tennessee shall establish a grievance procedure for all support staff employees.
(2) "Support staff" means employees who are neither faculty nor executive, administrative, or professional staff of any institution or board subject to this chapter and the University of Tennessee.
(3) Support staff shall be given every opportunity to resolve bona fide grievances through the grievance procedure. Every reasonable effort shall be made to resolve grievances at the lowest possible step in the procedure.
(4) Employees using or involved in the grievance procedure shall be entitled to pursue their grievances without fear, restraint, interference, discrimination or reprisal.
(b) (1) A grievance must be filed at the appropriate step in the grievance procedure within fifteen (15) working days after the employee receives notice or becomes aware of the action that is the basis for the grievance. (2) "Grievance" means a complaint about one (1) or more of the following matters: (A) Demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause; or (B) Work assignments or conditions of work that violate statute or policy. (3) Any complaint about demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause shall receive a hearing covered under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, part 3. In issues involving unlawful discrimination and harassment, the employee may choose a hearing under that act or the panel hearing. (4) Standard grievance forms shall be developed and made available to support staff at each worksite. No grievance may be denied because a standard form has not been used. (5) The grievance procedure shall include no more than four (4) steps to finality. (6) The grievance procedure shall include the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting within fifteen (15) days after the grievance is filed, and within fifteen (15) days after each subsequent step in the procedure is initiated. (7) The grievant shall receive a written decision with specific reasons stated for the decision within fifteen (15) working days after a face-to-face meeting occurs. (8) The grievant and any material witnesses shall be allowed to testify fully at every step in the grievance procedure. (9) The grievance procedure shall include an unbiased commission or panel as the final step for processing grievances regarding work assignments or conditions of work not otherwise covered in subdivision (b)(3). The decision of the panel is subject to review by the president. (10) At every step in the grievance procedure other than a Uniform Administrative Procedures Act hearing, the grievant shall be entitled to be accompanied and represented by an employee representative from the institution. Other employee representatives may be allowed at the panel hearing at the discretion of the panel chair.
(1) A grievance must be filed at the appropriate step in the grievance procedure within fifteen (15) working days after the employee receives notice or becomes aware of the action that is the basis for the grievance.
(2) "Grievance" means a complaint about one (1) or more of the following matters: (A) Demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause; or (B) Work assignments or conditions of work that violate statute or policy.
(A) Demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause; or
(B) Work assignments or conditions of work that violate statute or policy.
(3) Any complaint about demotion, suspension without pay or termination for cause shall receive a hearing covered under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, part 3. In issues involving unlawful discrimination and harassment, the employee may choose a hearing under that act or the panel hearing.
(4) Standard grievance forms shall be developed and made available to support staff at each worksite. No grievance may be denied because a standard form has not been used.
(5) The grievance procedure shall include no more than four (4) steps to finality.
(6) The grievance procedure shall include the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting within fifteen (15) days after the grievance is filed, and within fifteen (15) days after each subsequent step in the procedure is initiated.
(7) The grievant shall receive a written decision with specific reasons stated for the decision within fifteen (15) working days after a face-to-face meeting occurs.
(8) The grievant and any material witnesses shall be allowed to testify fully at every step in the grievance procedure.
(9) The grievance procedure shall include an unbiased commission or panel as the final step for processing grievances regarding work assignments or conditions of work not otherwise covered in subdivision (b)(3). The decision of the panel is subject to review by the president.
(10) At every step in the grievance procedure other than a Uniform Administrative Procedures Act hearing, the grievant shall be entitled to be accompanied and represented by an employee representative from the institution. Other employee representatives may be allowed at the panel hearing at the discretion of the panel chair.
(c) The board of regents, each state university board, and the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee shall provide an annual report to the education committee of the senate and the education administration committee of the house of representatives summarizing grievance activities of the previous year.
(d) Each institution shall include information regarding the grievance procedure in employee orientations.
(e) Each institution governed by the board of regents, a state university board, or the board of trustees for the University of Tennessee shall make the grievance procedure for the institution's support staff employees available on its website.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 891, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 64, s 109, eff. 3/29/2021.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 123, eff. 5/10/2019.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 16, eff. 7/1/2016.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 15, eff. 7/1/2016.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, s 76, eff. 4/17/2015.
Acts 1993, ch. 301, § 1; 2011 , ch. 410, § 4 (ff).
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-410 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-410
Tennessee Foreign Language Center
Status: in_force

(a) The Tennessee Foreign Language Institute is transferred to and reestablished as a part of the Institute for Public Service and renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center. (b) As a part of the Institute for Public Service, the Tennessee Foreign Language Center shall provide coordination and foreign language services to state and local government entities, as well as private entities. Programming may include, but is not limited to: (1) Services in support of government, industrial recruitment, and economic and tourist development; (2) Original research into issues related to foreign language, language instruction, and associated cultural considerations; and (3) Providing publications, conducting educational conferences, and furnishing technical consultation, training, and field services in the areas of foreign language and culture. (c) (1) (A) On July 1, 2018, the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute endowment fund shall be transferred from the state treasury to the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service. The fund shall be renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. The Institute for Public Service may receive private gifts and contributions for deposit in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund for the benefit of the Tennessee Foreign Language Center. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (c)(1)(A), the Institute for Public Service may keep the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund in the state treasury and may enter into an agreement with the state treasurer for its management. (2) The income from the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall be used for the operation and maintenance of the center. All interest and earnings on deposit in the fund shall become a part of and remain in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. No funds in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall revert to the state general fund on June 30 of any year, but shall remain available for expenditure in accordance with this part. Acts 2018, ch. 932, § 2.
(a) The Tennessee Foreign Language Institute is transferred to and reestablished as a part of the Institute for Public Service and renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center.
(b) As a part of the Institute for Public Service, the Tennessee Foreign Language Center shall provide coordination and foreign language services to state and local government entities, as well as private entities. Programming may include, but is not limited to: (1) Services in support of government, industrial recruitment, and economic and tourist development; (2) Original research into issues related to foreign language, language instruction, and associated cultural considerations; and (3) Providing publications, conducting educational conferences, and furnishing technical consultation, training, and field services in the areas of foreign language and culture.
(1) Services in support of government, industrial recruitment, and economic and tourist development;
(2) Original research into issues related to foreign language, language instruction, and associated cultural considerations; and
(3) Providing publications, conducting educational conferences, and furnishing technical consultation, training, and field services in the areas of foreign language and culture.
(c) (1) (A) On July 1, 2018, the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute endowment fund shall be transferred from the state treasury to the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service. The fund shall be renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. The Institute for Public Service may receive private gifts and contributions for deposit in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund for the benefit of the Tennessee Foreign Language Center. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (c)(1)(A), the Institute for Public Service may keep the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund in the state treasury and may enter into an agreement with the state treasurer for its management. (2) The income from the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall be used for the operation and maintenance of the center. All interest and earnings on deposit in the fund shall become a part of and remain in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. No funds in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall revert to the state general fund on June 30 of any year, but shall remain available for expenditure in accordance with this part.
(1) (A) On July 1, 2018, the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute endowment fund shall be transferred from the state treasury to the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service. The fund shall be renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. The Institute for Public Service may receive private gifts and contributions for deposit in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund for the benefit of the Tennessee Foreign Language Center. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (c)(1)(A), the Institute for Public Service may keep the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund in the state treasury and may enter into an agreement with the state treasurer for its management.
(A) On July 1, 2018, the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute endowment fund shall be transferred from the state treasury to the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service. The fund shall be renamed the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. The Institute for Public Service may receive private gifts and contributions for deposit in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund for the benefit of the Tennessee Foreign Language Center.
(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (c)(1)(A), the Institute for Public Service may keep the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund in the state treasury and may enter into an agreement with the state treasurer for its management.
(2) The income from the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall be used for the operation and maintenance of the center. All interest and earnings on deposit in the fund shall become a part of and remain in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund. No funds in the Tennessee Foreign Language Center endowment fund shall revert to the state general fund on June 30 of any year, but shall remain available for expenditure in accordance with this part.
Acts 2018, ch. 932, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2002 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2002
Condemnation
Status: in_force

(a) All municipal corporations establishing or having a free public school or free public high school are empowered to take and condemn the lands, property, property rights, privileges and easements of individuals and private corporations, in the mode and on the terms provided in this section, for the purpose of school sites or the extension or enlargement of grounds upon which to build schoolhouses or free public high school buildings and the necessary ground appurtenant thereto. (b) The municipal corporations shall so take and condemn by making compensation to the owner of the lands, property, property rights, privileges and easements. The compensation shall be paid to the owner by the municipal corporations. (c) The compensation shall be determined in the mode and manner provided by §§ 7-31-107 - 7-31-112. Acts 1913, ch. 48, §§ 1, 3, 4; Shan., §§ 1977a1, 1977a3, 1977a4; mod. Code 1932, §§ 3390-3392; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-805 -- 49-807.
(a) All municipal corporations establishing or having a free public school or free public high school are empowered to take and condemn the lands, property, property rights, privileges and easements of individuals and private corporations, in the mode and on the terms provided in this section, for the purpose of school sites or the extension or enlargement of grounds upon which to build schoolhouses or free public high school buildings and the necessary ground appurtenant thereto.
(b) The municipal corporations shall so take and condemn by making compensation to the owner of the lands, property, property rights, privileges and easements. The compensation shall be paid to the owner by the municipal corporations.
(c) The compensation shall be determined in the mode and manner provided by §§ 7-31-107 - 7-31-112.
Acts 1913, ch. 48, §§ 1, 3, 4; Shan., §§ 1977a1, 1977a3, 1977a4; mod. Code 1932, §§ 3390-3392; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-805 -- 49-807.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1902 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1902
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Divisive concept" means a concept that: (A) One (1) race or sex is inherently superior or inferior to another race or sex; (B) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, is inherently privileged, racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or subconsciously; (C) An individual should be discriminated against or receive adverse treatment because of the individual's race or sex; (D) An individual's moral character is determined by the individual's race or sex; (E) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex; (F) An individual should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or another form of psychological distress solely because of the individual's race or sex; (G) A meritocracy is inherently racist or sexist, or designed by a particular race or sex to oppress another race or sex; (H) This state or the United States is fundamentally or irredeemably racist or sexist; (I) Promotes or advocates the violent overthrow of the United States government; (J) Promotes division between, or resentment of, a race, sex, religion, creed, nonviolent political affiliation, social class, or class of people; (K) Ascribes character traits, values, moral or ethical codes, privileges, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of the individual's race or sex; (L) The rule of law does not exist, but instead is a series of power relationships and struggles among racial or other groups; (M) All Americans are not created equal and are not endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; (N) Governments should deny to any person within the government's jurisdiction the equal protection of the law; (O) Includes race or sex stereotyping; or (P) Includes race or sex scapegoating; (2) "Race or sex scapegoating" means assigning fault, blame, or bias to a race or sex, or to members of a race or sex, because of their race or sex, and includes any claim that, consciously or subconsciously, and by virtue of a person's race or sex, members of a race are inherently racist or inclined to oppress others, or that members of a sex are inherently sexist or inclined to oppress others; (3) "Race or sex stereotyping" means ascribing character traits, values, moral and ethical codes, privileges, status, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of his or her race or sex; and (4) "Training" includes seminars, workshops, trainings, and orientations. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 818, s 3, eff. 4/8/2022.
As used in this part:
(1) "Divisive concept" means a concept that: (A) One (1) race or sex is inherently superior or inferior to another race or sex; (B) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, is inherently privileged, racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or subconsciously; (C) An individual should be discriminated against or receive adverse treatment because of the individual's race or sex; (D) An individual's moral character is determined by the individual's race or sex; (E) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex; (F) An individual should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or another form of psychological distress solely because of the individual's race or sex; (G) A meritocracy is inherently racist or sexist, or designed by a particular race or sex to oppress another race or sex; (H) This state or the United States is fundamentally or irredeemably racist or sexist; (I) Promotes or advocates the violent overthrow of the United States government; (J) Promotes division between, or resentment of, a race, sex, religion, creed, nonviolent political affiliation, social class, or class of people; (K) Ascribes character traits, values, moral or ethical codes, privileges, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of the individual's race or sex; (L) The rule of law does not exist, but instead is a series of power relationships and struggles among racial or other groups; (M) All Americans are not created equal and are not endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; (N) Governments should deny to any person within the government's jurisdiction the equal protection of the law; (O) Includes race or sex stereotyping; or (P) Includes race or sex scapegoating;
(A) One (1) race or sex is inherently superior or inferior to another race or sex;
(B) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, is inherently privileged, racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or subconsciously;
(C) An individual should be discriminated against or receive adverse treatment because of the individual's race or sex;
(D) An individual's moral character is determined by the individual's race or sex;
(E) An individual, by virtue of the individual's race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex;
(F) An individual should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or another form of psychological distress solely because of the individual's race or sex;
(G) A meritocracy is inherently racist or sexist, or designed by a particular race or sex to oppress another race or sex;
(H) This state or the United States is fundamentally or irredeemably racist or sexist;
(I) Promotes or advocates the violent overthrow of the United States government;
(J) Promotes division between, or resentment of, a race, sex, religion, creed, nonviolent political affiliation, social class, or class of people;
(K) Ascribes character traits, values, moral or ethical codes, privileges, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of the individual's race or sex;
(L) The rule of law does not exist, but instead is a series of power relationships and struggles among racial or other groups;
(M) All Americans are not created equal and are not endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness;
(N) Governments should deny to any person within the government's jurisdiction the equal protection of the law;
(O) Includes race or sex stereotyping; or
(P) Includes race or sex scapegoating;
(2) "Race or sex scapegoating" means assigning fault, blame, or bias to a race or sex, or to members of a race or sex, because of their race or sex, and includes any claim that, consciously or subconsciously, and by virtue of a person's race or sex, members of a race are inherently racist or inclined to oppress others, or that members of a sex are inherently sexist or inclined to oppress others;
(3) "Race or sex stereotyping" means ascribing character traits, values, moral and ethical codes, privileges, status, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of his or her race or sex; and
(4) "Training" includes seminars, workshops, trainings, and orientations.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 818, s 3, eff. 4/8/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-608 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-608
Reserved
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 381,s 1, eff. 5/14/2013. Acts 2007, ch. 598, § 7.
Repealed by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 381,s 1, eff. 5/14/2013.
Acts 2007, ch. 598, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-5003 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-5003
Hepatitis B immunization
Status: in_force

(a) The department of health shall create a plan to protect young Tennesseans against Hepatitis B by immunization and to prevent the spread of the disease. (b) The department shall also promulgate the necessary rules to add Hepatitis B to the schedule of immunizations required for kindergarten entry. Acts 1997, ch. 306, §§ 2, 3.
(a) The department of health shall create a plan to protect young Tennesseans against Hepatitis B by immunization and to prevent the spread of the disease.
(b) The department shall also promulgate the necessary rules to add Hepatitis B to the schedule of immunizations required for kindergarten entry.
Acts 1997, ch. 306, §§ 2, 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-405 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-405
Use of school buildings and property
Status: in_force

(a) The boards of education of the respective municipalities shall have the right to permit municipal school buildings and municipal school property to be used for public, community or recreational purposes under such rules, regulations and conditions as may be prescribed from time to time by the boards of education; provided, that this right shall not extend to the use of the school buildings and property for private profit. (b) No such board of education, whether incorporated or unincorporated, and no member of any such boards of education, or other municipal or county school official, shall be held liable in damages for any injury to person or property resulting from the use of school buildings or property authorized by subsection (a). Acts 1947, ch. 142, §§ 1, 2; mod. C. Supp. 1950, §§ 2397.1, 2397.2 (Williams, § 2496.1); Acts 1955, ch. 287, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-307, 49-308.
(a) The boards of education of the respective municipalities shall have the right to permit municipal school buildings and municipal school property to be used for public, community or recreational purposes under such rules, regulations and conditions as may be prescribed from time to time by the boards of education; provided, that this right shall not extend to the use of the school buildings and property for private profit.
(b) No such board of education, whether incorporated or unincorporated, and no member of any such boards of education, or other municipal or county school official, shall be held liable in damages for any injury to person or property resulting from the use of school buildings or property authorized by subsection (a).
Acts 1947, ch. 142, §§ 1, 2; mod. C. Supp. 1950, §§ 2397.1, 2397.2 (Williams, § 2496.1); Acts 1955, ch. 287, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-307, 49-308.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-101 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-101
County legislative bodies - Powers and duties
Status: in_force

The duties of the county legislative body shall be to: (1) (A) Consider, in those counties not having adopted the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, compiled in title 5, chapter 12, part 2, and not included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, on the recommendation of the county board of education, school budgets for the county elementary and county high schools, and provide necessary funds to enable the county board to meet all obligations under the adopted budgets; (B) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, in those counties included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, or in any county that, by private act, adopts similar provisions to those contained in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989; (C) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, if applicable. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any budget approved under the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, shall also be approved by the local board of education prior to becoming effective; and (D) Make revenue estimates and determine the level of revenue necessary to establish a budget for the operation of county schools that is at least equal to the minimum budget required to comply with the local match and maintenance of effort provisions of the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA) under chapter 3, part 1 of this title; (2) Require the county board of education, through the county director of schools, to make a quarterly report of the receipts and expenditures of the public school funds, the needs of the county elementary and the county high schools, the progress made in their development and other information as to the administration of the public schools that it may require; (3) Require its finance committee to examine the accounts of the county board of education quarterly, or at any other time it may appear that the county board is misusing any of the public school funds, or exceeding the budget adopted by the county legislative body; or it may appoint a competent auditor to make the examination, the cost of the examination to be paid out of county funds; (4) Submit to the voters of the county, at any regular session, or at any special session called for that purpose, the proposition to issue bonds for the purpose of purchasing grounds, erecting and furnishing school buildings, and, upon the affirmative vote of the majority cast in the election, issue the bonds in accord with the proposition; (5) Levy such tax as may be necessary to pay interest on bonds and provide a sinking fund to retire the bonds at maturity; (6) Levy such taxes for county elementary and county high schools as may be necessary to meet the budgets submitted by the county board of education and adopted by the county legislative body; (7) Levy sufficient taxes or provide funds by bond issues by the voters for the purchase of school grounds, the erection and repair of school buildings and for equipping the same; provided, that the same shall have been provided for by the county legislative body, or that the county legislative body shall have approved the authorization of the same by the county board of education; and (8) Provide sufficient funds to erect a suitable building and maintain at least one (1) first-class four-year high school according to this title. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 41, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 576, s 1, eff. 3/19/2020. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 9; Shan. Supp., § 1487a55; mod. Code 1932, § 2346; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-201; Acts 1988, ch. 795, § 16; 1989, ch. 291, § 2; 1989, ch. 550, § 2; 1992, ch. 535, § 6; 1993, ch. 431, §§ 18, 19; 2012 , ch. 1018, § 1.
The duties of the county legislative body shall be to:
(1) (A) Consider, in those counties not having adopted the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, compiled in title 5, chapter 12, part 2, and not included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, on the recommendation of the county board of education, school budgets for the county elementary and county high schools, and provide necessary funds to enable the county board to meet all obligations under the adopted budgets; (B) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, in those counties included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, or in any county that, by private act, adopts similar provisions to those contained in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989; (C) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, if applicable. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any budget approved under the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, shall also be approved by the local board of education prior to becoming effective; and (D) Make revenue estimates and determine the level of revenue necessary to establish a budget for the operation of county schools that is at least equal to the minimum budget required to comply with the local match and maintenance of effort provisions of the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA) under chapter 3, part 1 of this title;
(A) Consider, in those counties not having adopted the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, compiled in title 5, chapter 12, part 2, and not included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, on the recommendation of the county board of education, school budgets for the county elementary and county high schools, and provide necessary funds to enable the county board to meet all obligations under the adopted budgets;
(B) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, in those counties included in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989, or in any county that, by private act, adopts similar provisions to those contained in chapter 550, §§ 7-21 of the Public Acts of 1989;
(C) Adopt a budget for the operation of county schools in accordance with the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, if applicable. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any budget approved under the Local Option Budgeting Law of 1993, shall also be approved by the local board of education prior to becoming effective; and
(D) Make revenue estimates and determine the level of revenue necessary to establish a budget for the operation of county schools that is at least equal to the minimum budget required to comply with the local match and maintenance of effort provisions of the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA) under chapter 3, part 1 of this title;
(2) Require the county board of education, through the county director of schools, to make a quarterly report of the receipts and expenditures of the public school funds, the needs of the county elementary and the county high schools, the progress made in their development and other information as to the administration of the public schools that it may require;
(3) Require its finance committee to examine the accounts of the county board of education quarterly, or at any other time it may appear that the county board is misusing any of the public school funds, or exceeding the budget adopted by the county legislative body; or it may appoint a competent auditor to make the examination, the cost of the examination to be paid out of county funds;
(4) Submit to the voters of the county, at any regular session, or at any special session called for that purpose, the proposition to issue bonds for the purpose of purchasing grounds, erecting and furnishing school buildings, and, upon the affirmative vote of the majority cast in the election, issue the bonds in accord with the proposition;
(5) Levy such tax as may be necessary to pay interest on bonds and provide a sinking fund to retire the bonds at maturity;
(6) Levy such taxes for county elementary and county high schools as may be necessary to meet the budgets submitted by the county board of education and adopted by the county legislative body;
(7) Levy sufficient taxes or provide funds by bond issues by the voters for the purchase of school grounds, the erection and repair of school buildings and for equipping the same; provided, that the same shall have been provided for by the county legislative body, or that the county legislative body shall have approved the authorization of the same by the county board of education; and
(8) Provide sufficient funds to erect a suitable building and maintain at least one (1) first-class four-year high school according to this title.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 41, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 576, s 1, eff. 3/19/2020.
Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 9; Shan. Supp., § 1487a55; mod. Code 1932, § 2346; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-201; Acts 1988, ch. 795, § 16; 1989, ch. 291, § 2; 1989, ch. 550, § 2; 1992, ch. 535, § 6; 1993, ch. 431, §§ 18, 19; 2012 , ch. 1018, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1003 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1003
Part incorporated in policies and procedures of board of regents
Status: in_force

For the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of § 49-7-1002(a) and (b) , it is the intent of the legislature that this part shall be made a formal part of the policies and procedures of the board of regents, the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, and the state university boards. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602, s 18, eff. 3/23/2018. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 538, s 1, eff. 3/17/2014.
For the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of § 49-7-1002(a) and (b) , it is the intent of the legislature that this part shall be made a formal part of the policies and procedures of the board of regents, the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, and the state university boards.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602, s 18, eff. 3/23/2018.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 538, s 1, eff. 3/17/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-50-104 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 50 / Section 49-50-104
County agricultural extension committee
Status: in_force

(a) All counties cooperating with the University of Tennessee extension by making an appropriation for extension work shall elect an agricultural extension committee composed of seven (7) members. The committee shall be elected by the county legislative body. (b) Three (3) of the members shall be elected from the membership of the county legislative body. There shall be elected to the committee four (4) members who are not members of the county legislative body. Two (2) shall be farmers and two (2) shall be farm women, residing in different civil districts. (c) The members shall be elected for terms of two (2) years, except that if there are fewer than four (4) civil districts in a county, at least one (1) member shall come from each civil district. Two (2) of the members representing the county legislative body, one (1) farmer and one (1) farm woman, shall be elected in even-numbered years; the other members shall be elected in odd-numbered years. The elections shall be held at the first meeting of the county legislative body of each calendar year. No member may be elected for more than three (3) successive terms. In the event that there is a vacancy on the committee, the county legislative body shall fill the vacancy at its next regular meeting after the vacancy occurs; and the committee member filling the vacancy shall serve during the unexpired term of the member's predecessor. (d) The functions of the committee shall be to: (1) Act with duly authorized representatives of the University of Tennessee extension in the employment or removal of personnel receiving funds from county extension appropriations; (2) Act with duly authorized representatives of the state agricultural extension service in formulating the county extension budget, and serve as liaison between the extension service and the county legislative body on financial and other matters relating to the work; (3) Act in an advisory capacity on county extension program formulation; and (4) Act in an advisory capacity on activities performed in connection with carrying out the program. (e) In performing the functions under subsection (d), the committee shall meet with duly authorized representatives of the University of Tennessee extension on selected dates mutually agreed to by the chair of the committee and the representatives of the University of Tennessee extension during the months of February, May, August and November, and at other times deemed desirable by a majority of the members of the committee. Acts 1929, ch. 81, § 5; mod. Code 1932, § 2545; Acts 1955, ch. 212, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-3406; Acts 2004, ch. 517, § 10.
(a) All counties cooperating with the University of Tennessee extension by making an appropriation for extension work shall elect an agricultural extension committee composed of seven (7) members. The committee shall be elected by the county legislative body.
(b) Three (3) of the members shall be elected from the membership of the county legislative body. There shall be elected to the committee four (4) members who are not members of the county legislative body. Two (2) shall be farmers and two (2) shall be farm women, residing in different civil districts.
(c) The members shall be elected for terms of two (2) years, except that if there are fewer than four (4) civil districts in a county, at least one (1) member shall come from each civil district. Two (2) of the members representing the county legislative body, one (1) farmer and one (1) farm woman, shall be elected in even-numbered years; the other members shall be elected in odd-numbered years. The elections shall be held at the first meeting of the county legislative body of each calendar year. No member may be elected for more than three (3) successive terms. In the event that there is a vacancy on the committee, the county legislative body shall fill the vacancy at its next regular meeting after the vacancy occurs; and the committee member filling the vacancy shall serve during the unexpired term of the member's predecessor.
(d) The functions of the committee shall be to: (1) Act with duly authorized representatives of the University of Tennessee extension in the employment or removal of personnel receiving funds from county extension appropriations; (2) Act with duly authorized representatives of the state agricultural extension service in formulating the county extension budget, and serve as liaison between the extension service and the county legislative body on financial and other matters relating to the work; (3) Act in an advisory capacity on county extension program formulation; and (4) Act in an advisory capacity on activities performed in connection with carrying out the program.
(1) Act with duly authorized representatives of the University of Tennessee extension in the employment or removal of personnel receiving funds from county extension appropriations;
(2) Act with duly authorized representatives of the state agricultural extension service in formulating the county extension budget, and serve as liaison between the extension service and the county legislative body on financial and other matters relating to the work;
(3) Act in an advisory capacity on county extension program formulation; and
(4) Act in an advisory capacity on activities performed in connection with carrying out the program.
(e) In performing the functions under subsection (d), the committee shall meet with duly authorized representatives of the University of Tennessee extension on selected dates mutually agreed to by the chair of the committee and the representatives of the University of Tennessee extension during the months of February, May, August and November, and at other times deemed desirable by a majority of the members of the committee.
Acts 1929, ch. 81, § 5; mod. Code 1932, § 2545; Acts 1955, ch. 212, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-3406; Acts 2004, ch. 517, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-50-902 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 50 / Section 49-50-902
Legislative intent
Status: in_force

It is declared to be the intent of the general assembly in enactment of this part to bring about the orderly transfer of licenses and operational responsibilities for state-owned educational television stations to appropriate local community agencies, and to encourage the further development of public television broadcasting in Tennessee. The general assembly recognizes that successful implementation of this goal is contingent upon diligent efforts by the state board of education and the department of education, as well as upon successful appropriate local community agencies. It is the intent of the general assembly that all departments of state government cooperate with and assist in this process. The general assembly also recognizes the crucial importance of state funding resources to the continued viability and improvement of the state educational television system. Acts 1984, ch. 514, § 2.
It is declared to be the intent of the general assembly in enactment of this part to bring about the orderly transfer of licenses and operational responsibilities for state-owned educational television stations to appropriate local community agencies, and to encourage the further development of public television broadcasting in Tennessee. The general assembly recognizes that successful implementation of this goal is contingent upon diligent efforts by the state board of education and the department of education, as well as upon successful appropriate local community agencies. It is the intent of the general assembly that all departments of state government cooperate with and assist in this process. The general assembly also recognizes the crucial importance of state funding resources to the continued viability and improvement of the state educational television system.
Acts 1984, ch. 514, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-908 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-908
Insufficiency of fund to pay annuities
Status: in_force

In case the fund is insufficient to pay the annuity provided for in this part, there shall be a ratable distribution among such beneficiaries who may be entitled to the annuity, and there shall be no claim for any deficiency. Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 7; Shan., § 1469b7 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a7; Code 1932, § 2531; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1608.
In case the fund is insufficient to pay the annuity provided for in this part, there shall be a ratable distribution among such beneficiaries who may be entitled to the annuity, and there shall be no claim for any deficiency.
Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 7; Shan., § 1469b7 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a7; Code 1932, § 2531; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1608.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-409 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-409
Administrative expenditures
Status: in_force

The board of regents is authorized and empowered to expend for the necessary administration of this part any funds that may be appropriated, received or allocated to carry out the purposes of this part. Acts 1963, ch. 229, § 9; 1983, ch. 181, §§ 5, 6; T.C.A., § 49-2617.
The board of regents is authorized and empowered to expend for the necessary administration of this part any funds that may be appropriated, received or allocated to carry out the purposes of this part.
Acts 1963, ch. 229, § 9; 1983, ch. 181, §§ 5, 6; T.C.A., § 49-2617.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-801 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-801
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Teachers' Sick Leave Bank Act." Acts 1981, ch. 283, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-56-101.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Teachers' Sick Leave Bank Act."
Acts 1981, ch. 283, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-56-101.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1502 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1502
Establishment of academic unit in collaboration with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Status: in_force

(a) The University of Tennessee is authorized to establish an academic unit of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for interdisciplinary research and education in collaboration with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. (b) The chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the director of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory are authorized to enter into an agreement concerning collaboration in interdisciplinary research and education designed to accomplish the purposes of this part. This agreement shall address matters including, but not limited to, the appointment and oversight of graduate students, the appointment of ORNL staff as faculty, and the development of interdisciplinary curricula between the two (2) institutions. Nothing in this part shall limit in any way the authority of the United States department of energy with regard to the ownership and operation of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. (c) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, nothing in this part shall be deemed or construed to abrogate in any way the applicability of federal law relative to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, its management and operation. Acts 2010 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 3, §§ 9, 10.
(a) The University of Tennessee is authorized to establish an academic unit of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for interdisciplinary research and education in collaboration with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
(b) The chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the director of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory are authorized to enter into an agreement concerning collaboration in interdisciplinary research and education designed to accomplish the purposes of this part. This agreement shall address matters including, but not limited to, the appointment and oversight of graduate students, the appointment of ORNL staff as faculty, and the development of interdisciplinary curricula between the two (2) institutions. Nothing in this part shall limit in any way the authority of the United States department of energy with regard to the ownership and operation of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
(c) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, nothing in this part shall be deemed or construed to abrogate in any way the applicability of federal law relative to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, its management and operation.
Acts 2010 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 3, §§ 9, 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1606 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1606
Federal college financing plan
Status: in_force

(a) Beginning in the 2021-2022 academic year, each institution operated by the board of regents, each state university, and each campus in the University of Tennessee system shall provide each student with a detailed and completed current-year federal college financing plan. The plan must be provided to students at least once with the student's notice of financial aid eligibility. An institution may substitute a personalized and detailed institution-specific alternative to the federal college financing plan, if the institution's alternative provides, at a minimum, the following information: (1) The total cost of attendance; (2) The total amount per year of grants and scholarships awarded to the student, including awards from the institution, state programs, and federal programs; (3) The estimated total net cost, based on the institution's cost of attendance, to the student for one (1) year of attendance at the institution, after deducting amounts awarded to the student through grants and scholarships; (4) The total amount per year of actual student loans and estimated work study funds for which the student is eligible, accompanied by the amount of each federal, state, or institutional loan by loan type and program origin, and the estimated amount of work study funds from each federal, state, or institutional work study option; and (5) Information and resources available to the student relative to financial aid planning and loan repayment calculations. (b) When a student is finalizing acceptance of a financial aid package, the institution shall clearly provide to the student: (1) The estimated unmet financial need accompanied by the total amount per year of eligible student loans; and (2) A statement on the importance of responsible student borrowing. Added by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 744,s 2, eff. 6/22/2020. Acts 2020, ch. 744, § 2.
(a) Beginning in the 2021-2022 academic year, each institution operated by the board of regents, each state university, and each campus in the University of Tennessee system shall provide each student with a detailed and completed current-year federal college financing plan. The plan must be provided to students at least once with the student's notice of financial aid eligibility. An institution may substitute a personalized and detailed institution-specific alternative to the federal college financing plan, if the institution's alternative provides, at a minimum, the following information: (1) The total cost of attendance; (2) The total amount per year of grants and scholarships awarded to the student, including awards from the institution, state programs, and federal programs; (3) The estimated total net cost, based on the institution's cost of attendance, to the student for one (1) year of attendance at the institution, after deducting amounts awarded to the student through grants and scholarships; (4) The total amount per year of actual student loans and estimated work study funds for which the student is eligible, accompanied by the amount of each federal, state, or institutional loan by loan type and program origin, and the estimated amount of work study funds from each federal, state, or institutional work study option; and (5) Information and resources available to the student relative to financial aid planning and loan repayment calculations.
(1) The total cost of attendance;
(2) The total amount per year of grants and scholarships awarded to the student, including awards from the institution, state programs, and federal programs;
(3) The estimated total net cost, based on the institution's cost of attendance, to the student for one (1) year of attendance at the institution, after deducting amounts awarded to the student through grants and scholarships;
(4) The total amount per year of actual student loans and estimated work study funds for which the student is eligible, accompanied by the amount of each federal, state, or institutional loan by loan type and program origin, and the estimated amount of work study funds from each federal, state, or institutional work study option; and
(5) Information and resources available to the student relative to financial aid planning and loan repayment calculations.
(b) When a student is finalizing acceptance of a financial aid package, the institution shall clearly provide to the student: (1) The estimated unmet financial need accompanied by the total amount per year of eligible student loans; and (2) A statement on the importance of responsible student borrowing.
(1) The estimated unmet financial need accompanied by the total amount per year of eligible student loans; and
(2) A statement on the importance of responsible student borrowing.
Added by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 744,s 2, eff. 6/22/2020.
Acts 2020, ch. 744, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-605 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-605
Posting or publication of recognized school support organizations - Public inspection of forms, reports or financial statements
Status: in_force

(a) The director of schools or the director's designee shall annually post or publish a list of organizations that have complied with § 49-2-604(b) . This posting or publication may be made by written or electronic means. The school board shall determine the appropriate method of posting or publishing this information. (b) Any local board of education is authorized to develop a process to certify that an organization has been recognized as a school support organization; however, a local board of education shall not incur any liability for the recognition. (c) Any forms, annual reports, or financial statements required to be submitted according to the policy adopted by the board pursuant to § 49-2-604(b) to the director of schools or the local school principal shall be open to public inspection. Acts 2007 , ch. 326, § 6; 2008 , ch. 1156, § 5.
(a) The director of schools or the director's designee shall annually post or publish a list of organizations that have complied with § 49-2-604(b) . This posting or publication may be made by written or electronic means. The school board shall determine the appropriate method of posting or publishing this information.
(b) Any local board of education is authorized to develop a process to certify that an organization has been recognized as a school support organization; however, a local board of education shall not incur any liability for the recognition.
(c) Any forms, annual reports, or financial statements required to be submitted according to the policy adopted by the board pursuant to § 49-2-604(b) to the director of schools or the local school principal shall be open to public inspection.
Acts 2007 , ch. 326, § 6; 2008 , ch. 1156, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-363 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-363
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023. Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 43; 2006, ch. 675, § 1.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 43; 2006, ch. 675, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-109 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-109
Student access to facilities and functions
Status: in_force

(a) All facilities of and any and all social, athletic and cultural functions sponsored by a state institution of higher learning, industry, state universities and colleges, technical schools, community colleges and state colleges of applied technology shall be available to all students who are enrolled in at least six (6) hours or more of credit courses of the institutions. (b) The facilities and functions shall be available to the students upon the payment of any regular activity fee that is required of full-time students for the enjoyment of the facilities and functions. (c) Any student who is enrolled in at least six (6) hours or more of credit courses of the institutions shall be issued a student identification card if the card is required for identification and admission to the facilities and functions. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 473,s 20, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1973, ch. 338, §§ 1-3; 1983, ch. 181, § 11; T.C.A., § 49-3248; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3.
(a) All facilities of and any and all social, athletic and cultural functions sponsored by a state institution of higher learning, industry, state universities and colleges, technical schools, community colleges and state colleges of applied technology shall be available to all students who are enrolled in at least six (6) hours or more of credit courses of the institutions.
(b) The facilities and functions shall be available to the students upon the payment of any regular activity fee that is required of full-time students for the enjoyment of the facilities and functions.
(c) Any student who is enrolled in at least six (6) hours or more of credit courses of the institutions shall be issued a student identification card if the card is required for identification and admission to the facilities and functions.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 473,s 20, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1973, ch. 338, §§ 1-3; 1983, ch. 181, § 11; T.C.A., § 49-3248; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1204 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1204
[Repealed] Reserved
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 62, eff. 5/2/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 607, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-1925, 49-1926.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 62, eff. 5/2/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 607, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-1925, 49-1926.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-4403 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-4403
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) The department of children's services shall adopt rules and regulations that specifically designate the method of imposing corporal punishment and the circumstances that warrant corporal punishment in the schools within its special school district. The rules and regulations shall provide for only corporal punishment that is reasonably necessary for the proper education of the pupil. (b) No corporal punishment shall be imposed until the rules and regulations have been promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. (c) The rules and regulations shall provide for a written record to be kept of all use of corporal punishment, including the name of the person requesting the punishment and a brief description of the circumstances warranting its use. Acts 1980, ch. 571, § 1; Acts 1989, ch. 278, § 73; 1996, ch. 1079, § 140.
(a) The department of children's services shall adopt rules and regulations that specifically designate the method of imposing corporal punishment and the circumstances that warrant corporal punishment in the schools within its special school district. The rules and regulations shall provide for only corporal punishment that is reasonably necessary for the proper education of the pupil.
(b) No corporal punishment shall be imposed until the rules and regulations have been promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
(c) The rules and regulations shall provide for a written record to be kept of all use of corporal punishment, including the name of the person requesting the punishment and a brief description of the circumstances warranting its use.
Acts 1980, ch. 571, § 1; Acts 1989, ch. 278, § 73; 1996, ch. 1079, § 140.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1030 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1030
Teaching scientific subjects in public schools
Status: in_force

(a) The state board of education, public elementary and secondary school governing authorities, directors of schools, school system administrators, and public elementary and secondary school principals and administrators shall endeavor to create an environment within public elementary and secondary schools that encourages students to explore scientific questions, learn about scientific evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and respond appropriately and respectfully to differences of opinion about scientific subjects required to be taught under the standards developed by the state board of education. (b) The state board of education, public elementary and secondary school governing authorities, directors of schools, school system administrators, and public elementary and secondary school principals and administrators shall endeavor to assist teachers to find effective ways to present the science curriculum taught under the standards developed by the state board of education as it addresses scientific subjects that may cause debate and disputation. (c) Neither the state board of education, nor any public elementary or secondary school governing authority, director of schools, school system administrators, or any public elementary or secondary school principal or administrators shall prohibit any teacher in a public school system of this state from helping students understand, analyze, critique, and review in an objective manner the scientific strengths and scientific weaknesses of existing scientific theories covered in the course being taught within the standards developed by the state board of education. (d) This section only protects the teaching of scientific information, and shall not be construed to promote any religious or nonreligious doctrine, promote discrimination for or against a particular set of religious beliefs or nonbeliefs, or promote discrimination for or against religion or nonreligion. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999,s 9, eff. 4/27/2016. Acts 2012, ch. 670, § 1.
(a) The state board of education, public elementary and secondary school governing authorities, directors of schools, school system administrators, and public elementary and secondary school principals and administrators shall endeavor to create an environment within public elementary and secondary schools that encourages students to explore scientific questions, learn about scientific evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and respond appropriately and respectfully to differences of opinion about scientific subjects required to be taught under the standards developed by the state board of education.
(b) The state board of education, public elementary and secondary school governing authorities, directors of schools, school system administrators, and public elementary and secondary school principals and administrators shall endeavor to assist teachers to find effective ways to present the science curriculum taught under the standards developed by the state board of education as it addresses scientific subjects that may cause debate and disputation.
(c) Neither the state board of education, nor any public elementary or secondary school governing authority, director of schools, school system administrators, or any public elementary or secondary school principal or administrators shall prohibit any teacher in a public school system of this state from helping students understand, analyze, critique, and review in an objective manner the scientific strengths and scientific weaknesses of existing scientific theories covered in the course being taught within the standards developed by the state board of education.
(d) This section only protects the teaching of scientific information, and shall not be construed to promote any religious or nonreligious doctrine, promote discrimination for or against a particular set of religious beliefs or nonbeliefs, or promote discrimination for or against religion or nonreligion.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999,s 9, eff. 4/27/2016.
Acts 2012, ch. 670, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-701 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-701
Grants and technical assistance - LEAP grant fund
Status: in_force

(a) The department of education shall establish, administer and monitor a system of competitive grants and technical assistance for eligible organizations providing after school educational programs consistent with the Constitution of Tennessee, Article XI, § 5. The grants and technical assistance shall supplement, not supplant, nonlottery educational resources for after school educational programs and purposes. (b) There is created within the state treasury a fund to be administered by the department of education and to be known as the lottery for education after school programs grant fund, referred to as the LEAP grant fund in this section. (c) In any fiscal year in which the financial assistance program for attendance at postsecondary educational institutions located within this state is funded pursuant to chapter 4, part 9 of this title, and funds are available in the after school account established in § 4-51-111(f) , the governor shall recommend and the general assembly may appropriate moneys in the after school account to the department of education for deposit in the LEAP grant fund. (d) (1) Moneys in the LEAP grant fund shall be available to the department of education to make grants and fund technical assistance for after school programs. An after school program grant shall be awarded for a period of three (3) years with moneys for such grant earmarked in the LEAP grant fund and disbursed annually during the life of the grant according to the terms of the grant. (2) The department of education shall establish a method whereby it converts grant funding for after school programs from annual grants to grants awarded for three-year periods. The method may include a phase-in of the award of three-year grants so that not all grants expire at the same time or any other process that the department finds to be most efficacious in the administration of the grant program. Grants shall only be awarded to those programs that comply with § 49-6-702 or § 49-6-705 and meet adequate performance levels as determined by the department of education. (e) The award of grants in any fiscal year is subject to the availability of funds in the LEAP grant fund for the grants. Amounts remaining in the LEAP grant fund at the end of each fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund or to the after school account, but shall be carried forward into the subsequent fiscal year and remain available for use by the department for after school programs and technical assistance for such programs. Moneys in the fund shall be invested by the state treasurer pursuant to title 9, chapter 4, part 6 for the sole benefit of the fund. All earnings attributable to such investments shall be credited to the fund. Acts 2004, ch. 953, § 1; 2008 , ch. 1175, § 1.
(a) The department of education shall establish, administer and monitor a system of competitive grants and technical assistance for eligible organizations providing after school educational programs consistent with the Constitution of Tennessee, Article XI, § 5. The grants and technical assistance shall supplement, not supplant, nonlottery educational resources for after school educational programs and purposes.
(b) There is created within the state treasury a fund to be administered by the department of education and to be known as the lottery for education after school programs grant fund, referred to as the LEAP grant fund in this section.
(c) In any fiscal year in which the financial assistance program for attendance at postsecondary educational institutions located within this state is funded pursuant to chapter 4, part 9 of this title, and funds are available in the after school account established in § 4-51-111(f) , the governor shall recommend and the general assembly may appropriate moneys in the after school account to the department of education for deposit in the LEAP grant fund.
(d) (1) Moneys in the LEAP grant fund shall be available to the department of education to make grants and fund technical assistance for after school programs. An after school program grant shall be awarded for a period of three (3) years with moneys for such grant earmarked in the LEAP grant fund and disbursed annually during the life of the grant according to the terms of the grant. (2) The department of education shall establish a method whereby it converts grant funding for after school programs from annual grants to grants awarded for three-year periods. The method may include a phase-in of the award of three-year grants so that not all grants expire at the same time or any other process that the department finds to be most efficacious in the administration of the grant program. Grants shall only be awarded to those programs that comply with § 49-6-702 or § 49-6-705 and meet adequate performance levels as determined by the department of education.
(1) Moneys in the LEAP grant fund shall be available to the department of education to make grants and fund technical assistance for after school programs. An after school program grant shall be awarded for a period of three (3) years with moneys for such grant earmarked in the LEAP grant fund and disbursed annually during the life of the grant according to the terms of the grant.
(2) The department of education shall establish a method whereby it converts grant funding for after school programs from annual grants to grants awarded for three-year periods. The method may include a phase-in of the award of three-year grants so that not all grants expire at the same time or any other process that the department finds to be most efficacious in the administration of the grant program. Grants shall only be awarded to those programs that comply with § 49-6-702 or § 49-6-705 and meet adequate performance levels as determined by the department of education.
(e) The award of grants in any fiscal year is subject to the availability of funds in the LEAP grant fund for the grants. Amounts remaining in the LEAP grant fund at the end of each fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund or to the after school account, but shall be carried forward into the subsequent fiscal year and remain available for use by the department for after school programs and technical assistance for such programs. Moneys in the fund shall be invested by the state treasurer pursuant to title 9, chapter 4, part 6 for the sole benefit of the fund. All earnings attributable to such investments shall be credited to the fund.
Acts 2004, ch. 953, § 1; 2008 , ch. 1175, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-1004 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-1004
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 39, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 2, eff. 4/18/2019. Acts 2000, ch. 554, § 5; 2010 , ch. 764, § 3.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 39, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 154, s 2, eff. 4/18/2019.
Acts 2000, ch. 554, § 5; 2010 , ch. 764, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-17-104 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 17 / Section 49-17-104
Authority and powers of energy efficient schools council
Status: in_force

(a) The council may award grants or loans to school systems, charter schools, or the achievement school district for qualifying capital outlay projects as provided in § 49-17-103 after reviewing and approving: (1) An energy audit performed by a qualified professional that is either chosen by the council or approved by the council; or (2) A cost-benefit analysis that shows that incorporating energy efficient technologies provides a reasonable payback period. (b) The council has the authority to adopt a charter and bylaws and shall promulgate rules, regulations and policies the council deems necessary to further the purposes and duties of the energy efficient schools council as defined in § 49-17-103 and this section. Any rules and regulations proposed by the council shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. (c) It is the legislative intent that the council establish and operate its programs in a manner that makes funds available on an equitable basis for the benefit of LEAs of all sizes, characteristics, and geographical locations, charter schools, and the achievement school district. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 835, Secs.s 2, s 3eff. 4/27/2018. Acts 2008 , ch. 1188, § 5.
(a) The council may award grants or loans to school systems, charter schools, or the achievement school district for qualifying capital outlay projects as provided in § 49-17-103 after reviewing and approving: (1) An energy audit performed by a qualified professional that is either chosen by the council or approved by the council; or (2) A cost-benefit analysis that shows that incorporating energy efficient technologies provides a reasonable payback period.
(1) An energy audit performed by a qualified professional that is either chosen by the council or approved by the council; or
(2) A cost-benefit analysis that shows that incorporating energy efficient technologies provides a reasonable payback period.
(b) The council has the authority to adopt a charter and bylaws and shall promulgate rules, regulations and policies the council deems necessary to further the purposes and duties of the energy efficient schools council as defined in § 49-17-103 and this section. Any rules and regulations proposed by the council shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
(c) It is the legislative intent that the council establish and operate its programs in a manner that makes funds available on an equitable basis for the benefit of LEAs of all sizes, characteristics, and geographical locations, charter schools, and the achievement school district.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 835, Secs.s 2, s 3eff. 4/27/2018.
Acts 2008 , ch. 1188, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-412 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-412
Interest or career inventories - Career aptitude assessment
Status: in_force

(a) An LEA shall make an interest inventory such as the Kuder assessment, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® personality inventory, the ASVAB, the College Board Career Finder, or other interest or career inventory available to public middle schoolers or ninth graders to assist students in determining the students' interests and in making career decisions. (b) (1) In order to help inform a student's high school plan of study, each LEA shall administer a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8). (2) A career aptitude assessment is a tool used to help a student understand how a variety of skills and attributes impact the student's potential success and satisfaction with different career options and work environments. The department of education shall identify career aptitude assessments that LEAs may administer for purposes of this subsection (b). (3) Upon administering a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8), an LEA shall provide the students with information on career and technical education opportunities offered by the LEA in which the student is eligible to participate. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271, s 3, eff. 4/30/2021. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108, s 1, eff. 4/11/2019. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999, s 4, eff. 4/27/2016. Acts 2012 , ch. 918, § 1.
(a) An LEA shall make an interest inventory such as the Kuder assessment, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® personality inventory, the ASVAB, the College Board Career Finder, or other interest or career inventory available to public middle schoolers or ninth graders to assist students in determining the students' interests and in making career decisions.
(b) (1) In order to help inform a student's high school plan of study, each LEA shall administer a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8). (2) A career aptitude assessment is a tool used to help a student understand how a variety of skills and attributes impact the student's potential success and satisfaction with different career options and work environments. The department of education shall identify career aptitude assessments that LEAs may administer for purposes of this subsection (b). (3) Upon administering a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8), an LEA shall provide the students with information on career and technical education opportunities offered by the LEA in which the student is eligible to participate.
(1) In order to help inform a student's high school plan of study, each LEA shall administer a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8).
(2) A career aptitude assessment is a tool used to help a student understand how a variety of skills and attributes impact the student's potential success and satisfaction with different career options and work environments. The department of education shall identify career aptitude assessments that LEAs may administer for purposes of this subsection (b).
(3) Upon administering a career aptitude assessment to students in grade seven (7) or grade eight (8), an LEA shall provide the students with information on career and technical education opportunities offered by the LEA in which the student is eligible to participate.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271, s 3, eff. 4/30/2021.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108, s 1, eff. 4/11/2019.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999, s 4, eff. 4/27/2016.
Acts 2012 , ch. 918, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-50-501 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 50 / Section 49-50-501
Eye protection for students and teachers
Status: in_force

(a) All students, teachers and others in attendance at the following courses or laboratories in schools, colleges or universities, and exposed to the risks incident to working with the materials, equipment or performing the acts described in subdivisions (a)(1) and (2), shall wear eye protective devices of industrial quality: (1) Career and technical education courses or laboratories using or concerned with: (A) Hot molten metals; (B) Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding or stamping of any solid materials; (C) Heat treatment, tempering or kiln firing of any metal or other materials; (D) Gas or electric arc welding; (E) Repair or servicing of any vehicle; or (F) Caustic or explosive materials; and (2) Chemical or combined chemical-physical laboratories using caustic or explosive chemicals or hot liquids or solids. (b) Eye protective devices shall be considered of industrial quality when they meet the standards of the American Standards Association Safety Code for Head, Eye, and Respiratory Protection promulgated by the American Standards Association, Inc., or other standards generally recognized by industry. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 55,s 17, eff. 4/6/2015. Acts 1967, ch. 194, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-4401, 49-4402.
(a) All students, teachers and others in attendance at the following courses or laboratories in schools, colleges or universities, and exposed to the risks incident to working with the materials, equipment or performing the acts described in subdivisions (a)(1) and (2), shall wear eye protective devices of industrial quality: (1) Career and technical education courses or laboratories using or concerned with: (A) Hot molten metals; (B) Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding or stamping of any solid materials; (C) Heat treatment, tempering or kiln firing of any metal or other materials; (D) Gas or electric arc welding; (E) Repair or servicing of any vehicle; or (F) Caustic or explosive materials; and (2) Chemical or combined chemical-physical laboratories using caustic or explosive chemicals or hot liquids or solids.
(1) Career and technical education courses or laboratories using or concerned with: (A) Hot molten metals; (B) Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding or stamping of any solid materials; (C) Heat treatment, tempering or kiln firing of any metal or other materials; (D) Gas or electric arc welding; (E) Repair or servicing of any vehicle; or (F) Caustic or explosive materials; and
(A) Hot molten metals;
(B) Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding or stamping of any solid materials;
(C) Heat treatment, tempering or kiln firing of any metal or other materials;
(D) Gas or electric arc welding;
(E) Repair or servicing of any vehicle; or
(F) Caustic or explosive materials; and
(2) Chemical or combined chemical-physical laboratories using caustic or explosive chemicals or hot liquids or solids.
(b) Eye protective devices shall be considered of industrial quality when they meet the standards of the American Standards Association Safety Code for Head, Eye, and Respiratory Protection promulgated by the American Standards Association, Inc., or other standards generally recognized by industry.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 55,s 17, eff. 4/6/2015.
Acts 1967, ch. 194, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-4401, 49-4402.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-13-131 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 13 / Section 49-13-131
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219,s 87, eff. 4/26/2019. Acts 2009, ch. 555, § 13.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219,s 87, eff. 4/26/2019.
Acts 2009, ch. 555, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-136 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-136
Notification of association that regulates interscholastic athletics of student's placement in foster care - Consent - Privacy - Report
Status: in_force

(a) (1) If a student is placed in foster care, as defined in § 37-1-102(b)(17) , and the student seeks to participate in interscholastic athletics, then the public school or public charter school in which the student is enrolled shall notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of the student's placement in foster care, if failure to notify the association of the student's placement may result in the student being deemed ineligible to participate in athletics for any period of time. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), a public school or public charter school shall not notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of a student's placement in foster care unless the school first obtains written consent from the student's parent or legal guardian, or from the student if the student is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prior to making the notification. (3) A notification made pursuant to this subsection (a) must be made in accordance with state law, the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g ), and other relevant privacy laws. (b) (1) By January 1, 2022, and by January 1 of each year thereafter, each LEA and public charter school shall submit to the department of education documentation of its compliance with this section in the manner prescribed by the commissioner. (2) By January 31, 2022, and by January 31 each year thereafter, the department shall submit a report to the education administration committee of the house of representatives and the education committee of the senate documenting each LEA's and public charter school's compliance with this section. Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 274, s 1, eff. 4/30/2021.
(a) (1) If a student is placed in foster care, as defined in § 37-1-102(b)(17) , and the student seeks to participate in interscholastic athletics, then the public school or public charter school in which the student is enrolled shall notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of the student's placement in foster care, if failure to notify the association of the student's placement may result in the student being deemed ineligible to participate in athletics for any period of time. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), a public school or public charter school shall not notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of a student's placement in foster care unless the school first obtains written consent from the student's parent or legal guardian, or from the student if the student is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prior to making the notification. (3) A notification made pursuant to this subsection (a) must be made in accordance with state law, the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g ), and other relevant privacy laws.
(1) If a student is placed in foster care, as defined in § 37-1-102(b)(17) , and the student seeks to participate in interscholastic athletics, then the public school or public charter school in which the student is enrolled shall notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of the student's placement in foster care, if failure to notify the association of the student's placement may result in the student being deemed ineligible to participate in athletics for any period of time.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), a public school or public charter school shall not notify an association that regulates interscholastic athletics of a student's placement in foster care unless the school first obtains written consent from the student's parent or legal guardian, or from the student if the student is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prior to making the notification.
(3) A notification made pursuant to this subsection (a) must be made in accordance with state law, the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g ), and other relevant privacy laws.
(b) (1) By January 1, 2022, and by January 1 of each year thereafter, each LEA and public charter school shall submit to the department of education documentation of its compliance with this section in the manner prescribed by the commissioner. (2) By January 31, 2022, and by January 31 each year thereafter, the department shall submit a report to the education administration committee of the house of representatives and the education committee of the senate documenting each LEA's and public charter school's compliance with this section.
(1) By January 1, 2022, and by January 1 of each year thereafter, each LEA and public charter school shall submit to the department of education documentation of its compliance with this section in the manner prescribed by the commissioner.
(2) By January 31, 2022, and by January 31 each year thereafter, the department shall submit a report to the education administration committee of the house of representatives and the education committee of the senate documenting each LEA's and public charter school's compliance with this section.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 274, s 1, eff. 4/30/2021.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-128 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-128
Fulfillment of obligations as president emeritus
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding § 8-36-714 to the contrary, upon mutual agreement between the Tennessee higher education commission and the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, or a state university board, as appropriate, an individual holding the title of president emeritus may apply service to the Tennessee higher education commission toward fulfillment of the individual's obligations as president emeritus. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602, s 8, eff. 3/23/2018. Acts 2003 , ch. 327, § 4.
Notwithstanding § 8-36-714 to the contrary, upon mutual agreement between the Tennessee higher education commission and the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, or a state university board, as appropriate, an individual holding the title of president emeritus may apply service to the Tennessee higher education commission toward fulfillment of the individual's obligations as president emeritus.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602, s 8, eff. 3/23/2018.
Acts 2003 , ch. 327, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-13-118 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 13 / Section 49-13-118
Artificial intelligence - Adoption and implementation of artificial intelligence policies
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section, "artificial intelligence" means a machine-based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real or virtual environments and that is capable of using machine and human-based inputs to perceive real and virtual environments, abstract such perceptions into models through analysis in an automated manner, and use model inference to formulate options for information or action. (b) The governing body of a public charter school shall adopt a policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence by students, teachers, and staff for instructional and assignment purposes. The policy must be implemented in each public charter school no later than the 2024-2025 school year. By July 1, 2024, and by each July 1 thereafter, the governing body shall report to the department of education of its compliance with this section. The report must include the adopted policy and describe how the governing body will enforce the policy in the upcoming school year. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 550,s 3, eff. 3/11/2024.
(a) As used in this section, "artificial intelligence" means a machine-based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real or virtual environments and that is capable of using machine and human-based inputs to perceive real and virtual environments, abstract such perceptions into models through analysis in an automated manner, and use model inference to formulate options for information or action.
(b) The governing body of a public charter school shall adopt a policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence by students, teachers, and staff for instructional and assignment purposes. The policy must be implemented in each public charter school no later than the 2024-2025 school year. By July 1, 2024, and by each July 1 thereafter, the governing body shall report to the department of education of its compliance with this section. The report must include the adopted policy and describe how the governing body will enforce the policy in the upcoming school year.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 550,s 3, eff. 3/11/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-502 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-502
Construction with other statutes
Status: in_force

(a) The teachers' continuing contract law, compiled in § 49-5-409 , shall not be construed to be affected by this part, except that the continuing contract law shall not apply to teachers who have acquired tenure under this part. (b) (1) This part shall not affect the operation of local or private tenure acts in operation on March 1, 1951, applying to counties, municipalities or special school districts. (2) This part shall not be operative in any such county, municipality or special school district so long as the local or private act remains in effect. (3) This part shall become operative in any system where there is, on March 1, 1951, a local tenure law in effect, if and when the local law becomes inoperative. Acts 1951, ch. 76, §§ 14, 18 (Williams, §§ 2345.14, 2345.18); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-1418, 49-1419; Acts 2011 , ch. 70, § 6.
(a) The teachers' continuing contract law, compiled in § 49-5-409 , shall not be construed to be affected by this part, except that the continuing contract law shall not apply to teachers who have acquired tenure under this part.
(b) (1) This part shall not affect the operation of local or private tenure acts in operation on March 1, 1951, applying to counties, municipalities or special school districts. (2) This part shall not be operative in any such county, municipality or special school district so long as the local or private act remains in effect. (3) This part shall become operative in any system where there is, on March 1, 1951, a local tenure law in effect, if and when the local law becomes inoperative.
(1) This part shall not affect the operation of local or private tenure acts in operation on March 1, 1951, applying to counties, municipalities or special school districts.
(2) This part shall not be operative in any such county, municipality or special school district so long as the local or private act remains in effect.
(3) This part shall become operative in any system where there is, on March 1, 1951, a local tenure law in effect, if and when the local law becomes inoperative.
Acts 1951, ch. 76, §§ 14, 18 (Williams, §§ 2345.14, 2345.18); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-1418, 49-1419; Acts 2011 , ch. 70, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-202 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-202
Divisions
Status: in_force

(a) The department of education shall be organized in divisions that the commissioner, with the approval of the governor, finds necessary, except that there shall be a division of career and technical education, the head of which shall be an assistant commissioner. The assistant commissioner for career and technical education shall be responsible for the management of all career and technical education matters as governed by federal and state policies, guidelines, rules, and regulations. (b) All references to or duties or powers of the former division of vocational education or to the division of vocational-technical education shall be deemed to be references to or powers or duties of the division of career and technical education. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204,s 1, eff. 4/25/2019. Acts 1923, ch. 7, § 37; 1925, ch. 115, §§ 3, 4; Shan. Supp., §§ 373a89, 1487a17, 1487a22; Code 1932, §§ 311, 2308, 2313; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, §§ 56, 69; Acts 1937, ch. 240, § 1; 1947, ch. 93, § 3; 1947, ch. 99, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 311 (Williams, §§ 311, 2271.1, 2271.7, 2308); modified; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 12; Acts 1963, ch. 13, § 1; 1982, ch. 689, § 19; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-110, 49-111; Acts 1984 (1st E.S.), ch. 6, § 9; 2006, ch. 1016, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The department of education shall be organized in divisions that the commissioner, with the approval of the governor, finds necessary, except that there shall be a division of career and technical education, the head of which shall be an assistant commissioner. The assistant commissioner for career and technical education shall be responsible for the management of all career and technical education matters as governed by federal and state policies, guidelines, rules, and regulations.
(b) All references to or duties or powers of the former division of vocational education or to the division of vocational-technical education shall be deemed to be references to or powers or duties of the division of career and technical education.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204,s 1, eff. 4/25/2019.
Acts 1923, ch. 7, § 37; 1925, ch. 115, §§ 3, 4; Shan. Supp., §§ 373a89, 1487a17, 1487a22; Code 1932, §§ 311, 2308, 2313; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, §§ 56, 69; Acts 1937, ch. 240, § 1; 1947, ch. 93, § 3; 1947, ch. 99, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 311 (Williams, §§ 311, 2271.1, 2271.7, 2308); modified; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 12; Acts 1963, ch. 13, § 1; 1982, ch. 689, § 19; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-110, 49-111; Acts 1984 (1st E.S.), ch. 6, § 9; 2006, ch. 1016, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-908 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-908
Requirements for home schooled students, high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education recipients or graduates of ineligible high schools
Status: in_force

(a) To be eligible for a Tennessee HOPE scholarship as an entering freshman, a student who completes high school in a Tennessee home school program, who graduates from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school, or who obtains a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education shall: (1) Not be ineligible for the scholarship under § 49-4-904 ; (2) Meet the requirements of § 49-4-905 ; (3) (A) Attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date, if the student completed high school in a Tennessee home school program or graduated from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school; (B) Pass the GED ® tests with an average score of at least 525, the revised GED ® tests with an average score of at least 170, or the HiSET ® tests with an average score of at least 15, and attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date; or (C) Complete at least two (2) dual enrollment courses totaling at least six (6) semester hours credit at an eligible postsecondary institution and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.0 in each of two (2) dual enrollment courses and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in all dual enrollment courses attempted; and (4) Be admitted to and enroll in an eligible postsecondary institution no later than sixteen (16) months after completing high school in a Tennessee home school program, obtaining a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education, or graduating from high school. (b) [Deleted by 2022 amendment.] (c) [Deleted by 2022 amendment.] Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114, s 19, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114, s 18, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1107, s 15, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 467, s 3, eff. 7/1/2021. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 328, s 2, eff. 5/9/2017. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 495, s 5, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 2003 , ch. 298, § 1; 2004, ch. 840, §§ 8, 9, 10, 11b; 2005, ch. 481, §§ 7, 8.
(a) To be eligible for a Tennessee HOPE scholarship as an entering freshman, a student who completes high school in a Tennessee home school program, who graduates from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school, or who obtains a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education shall: (1) Not be ineligible for the scholarship under § 49-4-904 ; (2) Meet the requirements of § 49-4-905 ; (3) (A) Attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date, if the student completed high school in a Tennessee home school program or graduated from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school; (B) Pass the GED ® tests with an average score of at least 525, the revised GED ® tests with an average score of at least 170, or the HiSET ® tests with an average score of at least 15, and attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date; or (C) Complete at least two (2) dual enrollment courses totaling at least six (6) semester hours credit at an eligible postsecondary institution and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.0 in each of two (2) dual enrollment courses and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in all dual enrollment courses attempted; and (4) Be admitted to and enroll in an eligible postsecondary institution no later than sixteen (16) months after completing high school in a Tennessee home school program, obtaining a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education, or graduating from high school.
(1) Not be ineligible for the scholarship under § 49-4-904 ;
(2) Meet the requirements of § 49-4-905 ;
(3) (A) Attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date, if the student completed high school in a Tennessee home school program or graduated from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school; (B) Pass the GED ® tests with an average score of at least 525, the revised GED ® tests with an average score of at least 170, or the HiSET ® tests with an average score of at least 15, and attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date; or (C) Complete at least two (2) dual enrollment courses totaling at least six (6) semester hours credit at an eligible postsecondary institution and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.0 in each of two (2) dual enrollment courses and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in all dual enrollment courses attempted; and
(A) Attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date, if the student completed high school in a Tennessee home school program or graduated from a high school located in Tennessee that is not an eligible high school;
(B) Pass the GED ® tests with an average score of at least 525, the revised GED ® tests with an average score of at least 170, or the HiSET ® tests with an average score of at least 15, and attain a composite ACT score of at least 21 on any single ACT test date or a concordant equivalent score on the SAT on any single SAT test date; or
(C) Complete at least two (2) dual enrollment courses totaling at least six (6) semester hours credit at an eligible postsecondary institution and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.0 in each of two (2) dual enrollment courses and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in all dual enrollment courses attempted; and
(4) Be admitted to and enroll in an eligible postsecondary institution no later than sixteen (16) months after completing high school in a Tennessee home school program, obtaining a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education, or graduating from high school.
(b) [Deleted by 2022 amendment.]
(c) [Deleted by 2022 amendment.]
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114, s 19, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114, s 18, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1107, s 15, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 467, s 3, eff. 7/1/2021.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 328, s 2, eff. 5/9/2017.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 495, s 5, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 2003 , ch. 298, § 1; 2004, ch. 840, §§ 8, 9, 10, 11b; 2005, ch. 481, §§ 7, 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-109 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-109
Contracts with private, city or special district schools
Status: in_force

(a) (1) (A) The county board of education has the power to make contracts with the proper authorities of private schools or with city or special school district boards of education whereby the county public elementary and high schools may be taught in the private or city schools. (B) Such public elementary and high school branches shall be taught free of charge to all pupils of the county entitled thereto. (C) The contract may provide that: (i) The school shall be administered by either the city, special school district or county board of education upon the condition that the board charged with administration of the school shall employ duly licensed teachers, comply with other state laws pertaining to education and not interfere with the powers devolved upon the commissioner of education in connection with the county public elementary and high schools; and (ii) In the event of contracts with private schools, no teacher shall be employed in the private school unless the teacher has a teacher's license of such grade as may be prescribed for the teacher's employment and unless the employment of the teacher is approved by the county board of education. (2) The authority of the commissioner, county director of schools and all public school officers shall be as full and ample in such private schools as in other county public elementary and high schools. (b) This section shall not be construed as authorizing a contract by a county board of education with a church-sponsored, church related or a parochial school. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 14; Shan. Supp., § 1487a99; Code 1932, § 2390; Acts 1931, ch. 71, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2393.16; Acts 1959, ch. 259, §§ 1, 2; 1959, ch. 309, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-231.
(a) (1) (A) The county board of education has the power to make contracts with the proper authorities of private schools or with city or special school district boards of education whereby the county public elementary and high schools may be taught in the private or city schools. (B) Such public elementary and high school branches shall be taught free of charge to all pupils of the county entitled thereto. (C) The contract may provide that: (i) The school shall be administered by either the city, special school district or county board of education upon the condition that the board charged with administration of the school shall employ duly licensed teachers, comply with other state laws pertaining to education and not interfere with the powers devolved upon the commissioner of education in connection with the county public elementary and high schools; and (ii) In the event of contracts with private schools, no teacher shall be employed in the private school unless the teacher has a teacher's license of such grade as may be prescribed for the teacher's employment and unless the employment of the teacher is approved by the county board of education. (2) The authority of the commissioner, county director of schools and all public school officers shall be as full and ample in such private schools as in other county public elementary and high schools.
(1) (A) The county board of education has the power to make contracts with the proper authorities of private schools or with city or special school district boards of education whereby the county public elementary and high schools may be taught in the private or city schools. (B) Such public elementary and high school branches shall be taught free of charge to all pupils of the county entitled thereto. (C) The contract may provide that: (i) The school shall be administered by either the city, special school district or county board of education upon the condition that the board charged with administration of the school shall employ duly licensed teachers, comply with other state laws pertaining to education and not interfere with the powers devolved upon the commissioner of education in connection with the county public elementary and high schools; and (ii) In the event of contracts with private schools, no teacher shall be employed in the private school unless the teacher has a teacher's license of such grade as may be prescribed for the teacher's employment and unless the employment of the teacher is approved by the county board of education.
(A) The county board of education has the power to make contracts with the proper authorities of private schools or with city or special school district boards of education whereby the county public elementary and high schools may be taught in the private or city schools.
(B) Such public elementary and high school branches shall be taught free of charge to all pupils of the county entitled thereto.
(C) The contract may provide that: (i) The school shall be administered by either the city, special school district or county board of education upon the condition that the board charged with administration of the school shall employ duly licensed teachers, comply with other state laws pertaining to education and not interfere with the powers devolved upon the commissioner of education in connection with the county public elementary and high schools; and (ii) In the event of contracts with private schools, no teacher shall be employed in the private school unless the teacher has a teacher's license of such grade as may be prescribed for the teacher's employment and unless the employment of the teacher is approved by the county board of education.
(i) The school shall be administered by either the city, special school district or county board of education upon the condition that the board charged with administration of the school shall employ duly licensed teachers, comply with other state laws pertaining to education and not interfere with the powers devolved upon the commissioner of education in connection with the county public elementary and high schools; and
(ii) In the event of contracts with private schools, no teacher shall be employed in the private school unless the teacher has a teacher's license of such grade as may be prescribed for the teacher's employment and unless the employment of the teacher is approved by the county board of education.
(2) The authority of the commissioner, county director of schools and all public school officers shall be as full and ample in such private schools as in other county public elementary and high schools.
(b) This section shall not be construed as authorizing a contract by a county board of education with a church-sponsored, church related or a parochial school.
Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 14; Shan. Supp., § 1487a99; Code 1932, § 2390; Acts 1931, ch. 71, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2393.16; Acts 1959, ch. 259, §§ 1, 2; 1959, ch. 309, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-231.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-15-108 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 15 / Section 49-15-108
Evaluation of programs
Status: in_force

Success of a program shall be measured by high school retention rates, high school completion rates, high school dropout rates, certification and associate and baccalaureate degree completion, admission to four-year institutions, postgraduation employment in career or study-related fields, employer satisfaction of employees who participated in and graduated from the programs and other measures as the consortium finds appropriate. The consortium shall evaluate programs for success, shall establish best practices and lessons learned from successful programs and shall provide assistance to LEAs and postsecondary institutions seeking to implement a program by replicating or adapting a successful program designed elsewhere or through creation of a new program. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725,s 59, eff. 4/18/2018. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182,s 79, eff. 4/17/2015. Acts 2007, ch. 459, § 1; 2012, ch. 967, § 11.
Success of a program shall be measured by high school retention rates, high school completion rates, high school dropout rates, certification and associate and baccalaureate degree completion, admission to four-year institutions, postgraduation employment in career or study-related fields, employer satisfaction of employees who participated in and graduated from the programs and other measures as the consortium finds appropriate. The consortium shall evaluate programs for success, shall establish best practices and lessons learned from successful programs and shall provide assistance to LEAs and postsecondary institutions seeking to implement a program by replicating or adapting a successful program designed elsewhere or through creation of a new program.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725,s 59, eff. 4/18/2018.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182,s 79, eff. 4/17/2015.
Acts 2007, ch. 459, § 1; 2012, ch. 967, § 11.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-209 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-209
Management information system
Status: in_force

The commissioner of education is authorized to prescribe a management information system through which local school systems maintain, record and report information to the department and information for internal school and system management. The system shall be established by the commissioner in accordance with the standards and policies and procedures established by the information system council. Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 4.
The commissioner of education is authorized to prescribe a management information system through which local school systems maintain, record and report information to the department and information for internal school and system management. The system shall be established by the commissioner in accordance with the standards and policies and procedures established by the information system council.
Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-1001 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-1001
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Teacher Code of Ethics." Acts 2010, ch. 916, § 1.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Teacher Code of Ethics."
Acts 2010, ch. 916, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-14-105 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 14 / Section 49-14-105
Removal of governing board members for neglect of duty
Status: in_force

Members of any governing board of public higher education shall be subject to removal from the board for neglect of duty. The governor may petition for a board member's removal due to neglect of duty and the removal shall be effective upon a majority vote of the voting board members. Acts 2004, ch. 904, § 5.
Members of any governing board of public higher education shall be subject to removal from the board for neglect of duty. The governor may petition for a board member's removal due to neglect of duty and the removal shall be effective upon a majority vote of the voting board members.
Acts 2004, ch. 904, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-311 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-311
Capital outlay
Status: in_force

The state board shall establish minimum standards for school sites, including locations, school attendance centers, the construction of buildings for school purposes, the remodeling or renovation of buildings for school purposes of a capital outlay nature and for equipment for buildings for school purposes. No board shall obligate or expend any state or local school funds for any project of a capital outlay nature that does not conform to the standards adopted by the state board as authorized in this section. Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-610; Acts 1998, ch. 737, § 5; 2001, ch. 284, § 7.
The state board shall establish minimum standards for school sites, including locations, school attendance centers, the construction of buildings for school purposes, the remodeling or renovation of buildings for school purposes of a capital outlay nature and for equipment for buildings for school purposes. No board shall obligate or expend any state or local school funds for any project of a capital outlay nature that does not conform to the standards adopted by the state board as authorized in this section.
Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-610; Acts 1998, ch. 737, § 5; 2001, ch. 284, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-120 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-120
Prohibition against hazing
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "hazing" means any intentional or reckless act in this state, on or off LEA property, by one (1) student acting alone or with others, that is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student or that induces or coerces a student to endanger that student's mental or physical health or safety. "Hazing" does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization. (b) The governing body of each LEA shall adopt a written policy prohibiting hazing by any student or organization operating under the sanction of the LEA. The policy shall be distributed or made available to each student at the beginning of each school year. During the first month of each new school year, time shall be set aside to specifically discuss the policy and its ramifications as a criminal offense and the penalties that may be imposed by the LEA. Acts 2001, ch. 196, § 1.
(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "hazing" means any intentional or reckless act in this state, on or off LEA property, by one (1) student acting alone or with others, that is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student or that induces or coerces a student to endanger that student's mental or physical health or safety. "Hazing" does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization.
(b) The governing body of each LEA shall adopt a written policy prohibiting hazing by any student or organization operating under the sanction of the LEA. The policy shall be distributed or made available to each student at the beginning of each school year. During the first month of each new school year, time shall be set aside to specifically discuss the policy and its ramifications as a criminal offense and the penalties that may be imposed by the LEA.
Acts 2001, ch. 196, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-113 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-113
Special education funds from state - Process for LEAs to request reimbursement for high-cost children with disabilities
Status: in_force

(a) The state shall provide special education funds from the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA), in accordance with title 49, chapter 3, to LEAs and other entities entitled by the laws of this state to receive the funds for providing special education and related services to children with disabilities. (b) (1) Subject to the availability of federal funds, the department shall establish a process for LEAs to request reimbursement for high-cost children with disabilities. (2) An LEA shall include qualifying services provided to children with disabilities in each public school in the LEA, including charter schools authorized by the LEA, in the LEA's annual request for high-cost reimbursement. (3) An LEA shall provide to charter schools authorized by the LEA applicable high-cost reimbursement funds received by the LEA for any qualifying special education expenditures incurred directly by the charter school. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 64, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107, s 14, eff. 4/11/2019. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 767, s 2, eff. 7/1/2018. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 767, s 1, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 11; T.C.A., § 49-2959; Acts 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
(a) The state shall provide special education funds from the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA), in accordance with title 49, chapter 3, to LEAs and other entities entitled by the laws of this state to receive the funds for providing special education and related services to children with disabilities.
(b) (1) Subject to the availability of federal funds, the department shall establish a process for LEAs to request reimbursement for high-cost children with disabilities. (2) An LEA shall include qualifying services provided to children with disabilities in each public school in the LEA, including charter schools authorized by the LEA, in the LEA's annual request for high-cost reimbursement. (3) An LEA shall provide to charter schools authorized by the LEA applicable high-cost reimbursement funds received by the LEA for any qualifying special education expenditures incurred directly by the charter school.
(1) Subject to the availability of federal funds, the department shall establish a process for LEAs to request reimbursement for high-cost children with disabilities.
(2) An LEA shall include qualifying services provided to children with disabilities in each public school in the LEA, including charter schools authorized by the LEA, in the LEA's annual request for high-cost reimbursement.
(3) An LEA shall provide to charter schools authorized by the LEA applicable high-cost reimbursement funds received by the LEA for any qualifying special education expenditures incurred directly by the charter school.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 64, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107, s 14, eff. 4/11/2019.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 767, s 2, eff. 7/1/2018.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 767, s 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 11; T.C.A., § 49-2959; Acts 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-6005 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-6005
Special education diplomas
Status: in_force

A special education diploma shall be awarded to students who have satisfactorily completed an individualized education program and who have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct, but who have not met the proficiency testing requirements established under § 49-6-6001 . Acts 2012 , ch. 772, § 1.
A special education diploma shall be awarded to students who have satisfactorily completed an individualized education program and who have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct, but who have not met the proficiency testing requirements established under § 49-6-6001 .
Acts 2012 , ch. 772, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-809 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-809
Loss of benefits
Status: in_force

A member shall lose the right to obtain the benefits of the sick leave bank by: (1) Resignation or termination of employment with the local school system; (2) Cancellation of participation that is effective only on June 30 next; (3) Refusal to honor such assessment as may be required from time to time by the trustees to maintain an adequate number of reserve days in the bank; (4) Being on approved leave of absence with the exception of personal illness or disability leave; or (5) Retirement. Acts 1981, ch. 283, § 9; T.C.A., § 49-56-109.
A member shall lose the right to obtain the benefits of the sick leave bank by:
(1) Resignation or termination of employment with the local school system;
(2) Cancellation of participation that is effective only on June 30 next;
(3) Refusal to honor such assessment as may be required from time to time by the trustees to maintain an adequate number of reserve days in the bank;
(4) Being on approved leave of absence with the exception of personal illness or disability leave; or
(5) Retirement.
Acts 1981, ch. 283, § 9; T.C.A., § 49-56-109.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-506 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-506
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 23, eff. 4/18/2018. Acts 1990, ch. 996, § 6.
Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 23, eff. 4/18/2018.
Acts 1990, ch. 996, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-50-908 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 50 / Section 49-50-908
Development and expansion of service
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding any provisions of this part to the contrary, the state board of education is authorized, during the implementation phase of this part, to undertake such action as may be necessary to assist in or encourage the development of public television service in the Johnson City-Kingsport-Bristol area. (b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, and in keeping with the intention of the general assembly to foster the development of public television as a resource for Tennessee citizens and institutions, all units of state government are authorized and encouraged to extend to the eligible stations enumerated in § 49-50-903 all possible assistance and cooperation. Assistance may include, but is not limited to, allowing the eligible stations to use state facilities and property without charge when not needed for other purposes or to the extension of other services without charge when such assistance will not impair the ability of the providing agency to perform its usual and required functions. Acts 1984, ch. 514, § 8.
(a) Notwithstanding any provisions of this part to the contrary, the state board of education is authorized, during the implementation phase of this part, to undertake such action as may be necessary to assist in or encourage the development of public television service in the Johnson City-Kingsport-Bristol area.
(b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, and in keeping with the intention of the general assembly to foster the development of public television as a resource for Tennessee citizens and institutions, all units of state government are authorized and encouraged to extend to the eligible stations enumerated in § 49-50-903 all possible assistance and cooperation. Assistance may include, but is not limited to, allowing the eligible stations to use state facilities and property without charge when not needed for other purposes or to the extension of other services without charge when such assistance will not impair the ability of the providing agency to perform its usual and required functions.
Acts 1984, ch. 514, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-501 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-501
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Abolition of position" means a regular bona fide elimination of a position for sufficient, just and nondiscriminatory reasons; (2) "Board" means the local board of education holding jurisdiction in its respective territory. In the event that a school system operates without a board of education, the authority that performs the functions usually performed by a board shall be indicated by the word "board"; (3) "Conduct unbecoming to a member of the teaching profession" may consist of, but not be limited to, one (1) or more of the following: (A) Immorality; (B) Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude; (C) Dishonesty, unreliability, continued willful failure or refusal to pay one's just and honest debts; (D) Disregard of the teacher code of ethics in part 10 of this chapter, in such manner as to make one obnoxious as a member of the profession; or (E) Improper use of narcotics or intoxicants; (4) "Director of schools" refers to the local director of schools, or to any other officer performing the functions of a director of schools; (5) "Incompetence" means being incapable, lacking adequate power, capacity or ability to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position. This may apply to physical, mental, educational, emotional or other personal conditions. It may include lack of training or experience, evident unfitness for service, a physical, mental or emotional condition making the teacher unfit to instruct or associate with children or the inability to command respect from subordinates or to secure cooperation of those with whom the teacher must work; (6) "Inefficiency" means being below the standards of efficiency maintained by others currently employed by the board for similar work, or habitually tardy, inaccurate or wanting in effective performance of duties. The definition of inefficiency includes, but is not limited to, having evaluations demonstrating an overall performance effectiveness level that is "below expectations" or "significantly below expectations" as provided in the evaluation guidelines adopted by the state board of education pursuant to § 49-1-302 ; (7) "Insubordination" may consist of: (A) Refusal or continued failure to obey the school laws of this state, to comply with the rules and regulations of the board or to carry out specific assignments made by the board, the director of schools or the principal, each acting within its own jurisdiction, when the rules, regulations and assignments are reasonable and not discriminatory; (B) Failure to participate in an in-service training program as set up by the local board of education and approved by the state board of education; (C) Treason, or any effort to sabotage or overthrow the government of the United States; or (D) Refusal by the teacher to disclose to the board whether or not the teacher is, or has been, a member of the communist or any other party that advocates the overthrow of the government; (8) "Neglect of duty" means gross or repeated failure to perform duties and responsibilities that reasonably can be expected of one in such capacity or continued unexcused or unnecessary absence from duty; (9) "Probation" is a condition and period of trial during which a teacher is under observation to determine the teacher's fitness for tenure status; (10) "Teacher" includes teachers, supervisors, principals, director of schools and all other certificated personnel employed by any local board of education, for service in public, elementary and secondary schools in this state, supported in whole or in part by state or federal funds; (11) (A) "Tenure" is the employment status other than probation that a teacher may be under while teaching in the public schools; (B) (i) A teacher has no property right in the teacher's tenure status and must sustain a specified performance effectiveness level on evaluations, as provided in this part, to achieve and maintain tenure status. If a teacher acquires tenure, the teacher shall remain under that status until such time as the teacher resigns, retires, is dismissed or the teacher is returned to probationary status by the director of schools under this part; (ii) No teacher who acquired tenure status prior to July 1, 2011, shall be returned to probationary status; (C) No teacher, including administrative and supervisory personnel, who has acquired tenure status is entitled to any specific position; and (12) "Transfer" means removal from one (1) position to another position under jurisdiction of the same board. Acts 1951, ch. 76, § 1 (Williams, § 2345.1); Acts 1955, ch. 343, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 74-76; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1401; Acts 2010 , ch. 916, § 2; 2011 , ch. 70, §§ 4, 5.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Abolition of position" means a regular bona fide elimination of a position for sufficient, just and nondiscriminatory reasons;
(2) "Board" means the local board of education holding jurisdiction in its respective territory. In the event that a school system operates without a board of education, the authority that performs the functions usually performed by a board shall be indicated by the word "board";
(3) "Conduct unbecoming to a member of the teaching profession" may consist of, but not be limited to, one (1) or more of the following: (A) Immorality; (B) Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude; (C) Dishonesty, unreliability, continued willful failure or refusal to pay one's just and honest debts; (D) Disregard of the teacher code of ethics in part 10 of this chapter, in such manner as to make one obnoxious as a member of the profession; or (E) Improper use of narcotics or intoxicants;
(A) Immorality;
(B) Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;
(C) Dishonesty, unreliability, continued willful failure or refusal to pay one's just and honest debts;
(D) Disregard of the teacher code of ethics in part 10 of this chapter, in such manner as to make one obnoxious as a member of the profession; or
(E) Improper use of narcotics or intoxicants;
(4) "Director of schools" refers to the local director of schools, or to any other officer performing the functions of a director of schools;
(5) "Incompetence" means being incapable, lacking adequate power, capacity or ability to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position. This may apply to physical, mental, educational, emotional or other personal conditions. It may include lack of training or experience, evident unfitness for service, a physical, mental or emotional condition making the teacher unfit to instruct or associate with children or the inability to command respect from subordinates or to secure cooperation of those with whom the teacher must work;
(6) "Inefficiency" means being below the standards of efficiency maintained by others currently employed by the board for similar work, or habitually tardy, inaccurate or wanting in effective performance of duties. The definition of inefficiency includes, but is not limited to, having evaluations demonstrating an overall performance effectiveness level that is "below expectations" or "significantly below expectations" as provided in the evaluation guidelines adopted by the state board of education pursuant to § 49-1-302 ;
(7) "Insubordination" may consist of: (A) Refusal or continued failure to obey the school laws of this state, to comply with the rules and regulations of the board or to carry out specific assignments made by the board, the director of schools or the principal, each acting within its own jurisdiction, when the rules, regulations and assignments are reasonable and not discriminatory; (B) Failure to participate in an in-service training program as set up by the local board of education and approved by the state board of education; (C) Treason, or any effort to sabotage or overthrow the government of the United States; or (D) Refusal by the teacher to disclose to the board whether or not the teacher is, or has been, a member of the communist or any other party that advocates the overthrow of the government;
(A) Refusal or continued failure to obey the school laws of this state, to comply with the rules and regulations of the board or to carry out specific assignments made by the board, the director of schools or the principal, each acting within its own jurisdiction, when the rules, regulations and assignments are reasonable and not discriminatory;
(B) Failure to participate in an in-service training program as set up by the local board of education and approved by the state board of education;
(C) Treason, or any effort to sabotage or overthrow the government of the United States; or
(D) Refusal by the teacher to disclose to the board whether or not the teacher is, or has been, a member of the communist or any other party that advocates the overthrow of the government;
(8) "Neglect of duty" means gross or repeated failure to perform duties and responsibilities that reasonably can be expected of one in such capacity or continued unexcused or unnecessary absence from duty;
(9) "Probation" is a condition and period of trial during which a teacher is under observation to determine the teacher's fitness for tenure status;
(10) "Teacher" includes teachers, supervisors, principals, director of schools and all other certificated personnel employed by any local board of education, for service in public, elementary and secondary schools in this state, supported in whole or in part by state or federal funds;
(11) (A) "Tenure" is the employment status other than probation that a teacher may be under while teaching in the public schools; (B) (i) A teacher has no property right in the teacher's tenure status and must sustain a specified performance effectiveness level on evaluations, as provided in this part, to achieve and maintain tenure status. If a teacher acquires tenure, the teacher shall remain under that status until such time as the teacher resigns, retires, is dismissed or the teacher is returned to probationary status by the director of schools under this part; (ii) No teacher who acquired tenure status prior to July 1, 2011, shall be returned to probationary status; (C) No teacher, including administrative and supervisory personnel, who has acquired tenure status is entitled to any specific position; and
(A) "Tenure" is the employment status other than probation that a teacher may be under while teaching in the public schools;
(B) (i) A teacher has no property right in the teacher's tenure status and must sustain a specified performance effectiveness level on evaluations, as provided in this part, to achieve and maintain tenure status. If a teacher acquires tenure, the teacher shall remain under that status until such time as the teacher resigns, retires, is dismissed or the teacher is returned to probationary status by the director of schools under this part; (ii) No teacher who acquired tenure status prior to July 1, 2011, shall be returned to probationary status;
(i) A teacher has no property right in the teacher's tenure status and must sustain a specified performance effectiveness level on evaluations, as provided in this part, to achieve and maintain tenure status. If a teacher acquires tenure, the teacher shall remain under that status until such time as the teacher resigns, retires, is dismissed or the teacher is returned to probationary status by the director of schools under this part;
(ii) No teacher who acquired tenure status prior to July 1, 2011, shall be returned to probationary status;
(C) No teacher, including administrative and supervisory personnel, who has acquired tenure status is entitled to any specific position; and
(12) "Transfer" means removal from one (1) position to another position under jurisdiction of the same board.
Acts 1951, ch. 76, § 1 (Williams, § 2345.1); Acts 1955, ch. 343, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 74-76; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1401; Acts 2010 , ch. 916, § 2; 2011 , ch. 70, §§ 4, 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-125 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-125
Archival Protection Act of 2009
Status: in_force

(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Archival Protection Act of 2009." (b) Upon determination to close a public school, the LEA is urged to employ or contract with a professional archivist to review all personal property contained in the school buildings for historic significance. The LEA is encouraged to preserve appropriately all personal property of the school deemed historically significant. The property may be made available for display at any public institution in the discretion of the LEA. Acts 2009, ch. 291, § 1.
(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Archival Protection Act of 2009."
(b) Upon determination to close a public school, the LEA is urged to employ or contract with a professional archivist to review all personal property contained in the school buildings for historic significance. The LEA is encouraged to preserve appropriately all personal property of the school deemed historically significant. The property may be made available for display at any public institution in the discretion of the LEA.
Acts 2009, ch. 291, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-104 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-104
Rules and regulations for defining residency
Status: in_force

(a) The board of regents and each state university board are authorized to establish from time to time reasonable and appropriate rules and policies defining residency of students, which shall be used for the purpose of determining whether or not out-of-state tuition shall be charged to a student enrolling in a state college or university subject to this chapter. (b) (1) The board of regents or a state university board may classify a student as a Tennessee resident and charge the student in-state tuition, if the student is a citizen of the United States, has resided in Tennessee for at least one (1) year immediately prior to admission, and has: (A) Graduated from a Tennessee public secondary school; (B) Graduated from a private secondary school that is located in this state; or (C) Earned a Tennessee high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education. (2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not be construed to limit the authority of the board of regents or a state university board under subsection (a) to establish other reasonable and appropriate rules defining additional categories of residents. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114,s 33, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 6, eff. 7/1/2016. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 745, s 1, eff. 7/1/2014. Acts 1959, ch. 118, § 1; 1973, ch. 144, § 3; T.C.A., § 49-3224.
(a) The board of regents and each state university board are authorized to establish from time to time reasonable and appropriate rules and policies defining residency of students, which shall be used for the purpose of determining whether or not out-of-state tuition shall be charged to a student enrolling in a state college or university subject to this chapter.
(b) (1) The board of regents or a state university board may classify a student as a Tennessee resident and charge the student in-state tuition, if the student is a citizen of the United States, has resided in Tennessee for at least one (1) year immediately prior to admission, and has: (A) Graduated from a Tennessee public secondary school; (B) Graduated from a private secondary school that is located in this state; or (C) Earned a Tennessee high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education. (2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not be construed to limit the authority of the board of regents or a state university board under subsection (a) to establish other reasonable and appropriate rules defining additional categories of residents.
(1) The board of regents or a state university board may classify a student as a Tennessee resident and charge the student in-state tuition, if the student is a citizen of the United States, has resided in Tennessee for at least one (1) year immediately prior to admission, and has: (A) Graduated from a Tennessee public secondary school; (B) Graduated from a private secondary school that is located in this state; or (C) Earned a Tennessee high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education.
(A) Graduated from a Tennessee public secondary school;
(B) Graduated from a private secondary school that is located in this state; or
(C) Earned a Tennessee high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education.
(2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not be construed to limit the authority of the board of regents or a state university board under subsection (a) to establish other reasonable and appropriate rules defining additional categories of residents.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 114,s 33, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 869, s 6, eff. 7/1/2016.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 745, s 1, eff. 7/1/2014.
Acts 1959, ch. 118, § 1; 1973, ch. 144, § 3; T.C.A., § 49-3224.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2410 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2410
Identification of opportunities to support formation and effective administration of community schools
Status: in_force

(a) The department of education shall work with at least one (1) statewide coalition composed of practitioners, administrators, advocates, and other stakeholders to identify opportunities for the department to support the formation and effective administration of community schools in this state by focusing on and sharing best practices regarding: (1) Professional development; (2) Policy and advocacy; (3) Communications; (4) Stakeholder engagement; and (5) Program evaluation. (b) Subsection (a) does not prohibit the department of education from working with more than one (1) statewide coalition to effectuate the purposes of this section. Acts 2019, ch. 453, § 4.
(a) The department of education shall work with at least one (1) statewide coalition composed of practitioners, administrators, advocates, and other stakeholders to identify opportunities for the department to support the formation and effective administration of community schools in this state by focusing on and sharing best practices regarding: (1) Professional development; (2) Policy and advocacy; (3) Communications; (4) Stakeholder engagement; and (5) Program evaluation.
(1) Professional development;
(2) Policy and advocacy;
(3) Communications;
(4) Stakeholder engagement; and
(5) Program evaluation.
(b) Subsection (a) does not prohibit the department of education from working with more than one (1) statewide coalition to effectuate the purposes of this section.
Acts 2019, ch. 453, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-601 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-601
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "School Support Organization Financial Accountability Act." Acts 2007, ch. 326, § 2.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "School Support Organization Financial Accountability Act."
Acts 2007, ch. 326, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-205 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-205
Authority to contract and partner with local governments to provide educational and workforce development programs to assist with reducing recidivism rates
Status: in_force

In addition to all other authorized functions of the community colleges and state colleges of applied technology within the board of regents, each institution is authorized to contract and partner with local governments for the purpose of providing educational and workforce development programs to assist with reducing recidivism rates of criminal offenders held in local correctional facilities and improving opportunities for successful reentry upon release from incarceration. Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 410, s 20, eff. 5/12/2021.
In addition to all other authorized functions of the community colleges and state colleges of applied technology within the board of regents, each institution is authorized to contract and partner with local governments for the purpose of providing educational and workforce development programs to assist with reducing recidivism rates of criminal offenders held in local correctional facilities and improving opportunities for successful reentry upon release from incarceration.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 410, s 20, eff. 5/12/2021.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-131 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-131
Non-disclosure agreement during settlement for act of sexual misconduct prohibited - Assistance in obtaining new job prohibited
Status: in_force

(a) An LEA is prohibited from entering into, or requiring an opposing party to enter into, a non-disclosure agreement during a settlement, or as a prerequisite to settlement, for any act of sexual misconduct, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or sexual assault. (b) Except as provided by subsection (c), other than the routine transmission of administrative and personnel files, LEA employees are prohibited from assisting a school employee, contractor, or agent in obtaining a new job if the employee knows, or has probable cause to believe, that the person seeking a job change engaged in sexual misconduct regarding a minor or student. (c) Subsection (b) shall not apply if: (1) The information giving rise to probable cause to believe sexual misconduct has occurred has been reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency; and (2) The matter has been officially closed in one (1) of the following ways: (A) The prosecutor or police have investigated the allegations and notified school officials that there is insufficient information to establish probable cause; (B) The employee, contractor, or agent has been charged and either acquitted or exonerated; or (C) The case remains open, and there have been no charges or indictment filed within four (4) years of the date the information was reported to the law enforcement agency. (d) For the purposes of determining if sexual misconduct has occurred, an LEA may request a personnel file regarding any person seeking employment in the LEA from any LEA in which the person seeking employment worked previously. An LEA receiving such request shall provide the file to the requesting LEA within ten (10) business days. (e) The director of schools shall develop procedures to enforce this section. Acts 2018, ch. 938, § 1.
(a) An LEA is prohibited from entering into, or requiring an opposing party to enter into, a non-disclosure agreement during a settlement, or as a prerequisite to settlement, for any act of sexual misconduct, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or sexual assault.
(b) Except as provided by subsection (c), other than the routine transmission of administrative and personnel files, LEA employees are prohibited from assisting a school employee, contractor, or agent in obtaining a new job if the employee knows, or has probable cause to believe, that the person seeking a job change engaged in sexual misconduct regarding a minor or student.
(c) Subsection (b) shall not apply if: (1) The information giving rise to probable cause to believe sexual misconduct has occurred has been reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency; and (2) The matter has been officially closed in one (1) of the following ways: (A) The prosecutor or police have investigated the allegations and notified school officials that there is insufficient information to establish probable cause; (B) The employee, contractor, or agent has been charged and either acquitted or exonerated; or (C) The case remains open, and there have been no charges or indictment filed within four (4) years of the date the information was reported to the law enforcement agency.
(1) The information giving rise to probable cause to believe sexual misconduct has occurred has been reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency; and
(2) The matter has been officially closed in one (1) of the following ways: (A) The prosecutor or police have investigated the allegations and notified school officials that there is insufficient information to establish probable cause; (B) The employee, contractor, or agent has been charged and either acquitted or exonerated; or (C) The case remains open, and there have been no charges or indictment filed within four (4) years of the date the information was reported to the law enforcement agency.
(A) The prosecutor or police have investigated the allegations and notified school officials that there is insufficient information to establish probable cause;
(B) The employee, contractor, or agent has been charged and either acquitted or exonerated; or
(C) The case remains open, and there have been no charges or indictment filed within four (4) years of the date the information was reported to the law enforcement agency.
(d) For the purposes of determining if sexual misconduct has occurred, an LEA may request a personnel file regarding any person seeking employment in the LEA from any LEA in which the person seeking employment worked previously. An LEA receiving such request shall provide the file to the requesting LEA within ten (10) business days.
(e) The director of schools shall develop procedures to enforce this section.
Acts 2018, ch. 938, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1802 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1802
Discrimination against students' voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint prohibited - Applicable law - Legislative intent
Status: in_force

(a) An LEA shall treat a student's voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint, if any, on an otherwise permissible subject in the same manner in which the LEA treats a student's voluntary expression of a secular or other viewpoint on an otherwise permissible subject and may not discriminate against the student based on a religious viewpoint, if any, expressed by the student on an otherwise permissible subject. (b) This part shall comply with §§ 4-1-407 , 49-6-2904 , any applicable state or federal laws, the Constitution of Tennessee and the United States Constitution. It is the intent of this part to allow LEAs to develop policies that ensure an LEA shall not discriminate against a student's voluntary expression of a faith based viewpoint, if any. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 654, s 2, eff. 4/10/2014.
(a) An LEA shall treat a student's voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint, if any, on an otherwise permissible subject in the same manner in which the LEA treats a student's voluntary expression of a secular or other viewpoint on an otherwise permissible subject and may not discriminate against the student based on a religious viewpoint, if any, expressed by the student on an otherwise permissible subject.
(b) This part shall comply with §§ 4-1-407 , 49-6-2904 , any applicable state or federal laws, the Constitution of Tennessee and the United States Constitution. It is the intent of this part to allow LEAs to develop policies that ensure an LEA shall not discriminate against a student's voluntary expression of a faith based viewpoint, if any.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 654, s 2, eff. 4/10/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1602 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1602
Board of fellows
Status: in_force

(a) The president of the University of Tennessee, in consultation with the governor, the speaker of the senate, and the speaker of the house of representatives, shall appoint initial members to serve on a board of fellows for the institute. Members of the initial board of fellows must be appointed by September 1, 2022. (b) The board of fellows must consist of thirteen (13) members, of which: (1) At least nine (9) members must be, or have been, tenured professors or administrators or professors of practice at an institution of higher education in the United States; (2) Two (2) members must be distinguished former elected or appointed officials in the United States, and, while serving in their former elected or appointed position, must have been affiliated with different political parties; and (3) Two (2) members must be members of the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. If a member appointed under this subdivision (b)(3) vacates the member's position on the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy, then the member vacates the member's position on the board of fellows and must be replaced by the president of the University of Tennessee. (c) In order to establish staggered terms for members of the board, four (4) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of two (2) years; four (4) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of four (4) years; and five (5) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of six (6) years. After the initial appointments expire, the term for each member of the board appointed to succeed an initial member of the board of fellows is six (6) years. Board members may continue to serve on the board after their term expires, but only until a new member is appointed to replace the board member. Board members may be reappointed to multiple terms. (d) The president of the University of Tennessee may remove a member from the board of fellows for misconduct or neglect of duty. (e) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(3), when a member's term expires or when a vacancy on the board arises, the board of fellows shall, with the approval of the president of the University of Tennessee, and in consultation with the governor, the speaker of the senate, and the speaker of the house of representatives, appoint a new member to serve on the board. If the board appoints a new member to fill a vacancy, then the new member serves for the remainder of the unexpired term. (f) The president of the University of Tennessee shall designate a member of the board of fellows to serve as the chair for a term of two (2) years. At the expiration of the chair's term, the president of the University of Tennessee shall appoint another member to serve as chair. There is no limitation on the number of terms a chair may serve. If the chair resigns from the position of chair, or resigns from the board of fellows, then the president of the University of Tennessee may designate another member to serve the remainder of the former chair's two-year term. (g) The board of fellows shall advise the director appointed pursuant to § 49-9-1603 on matters related to the institute, including, but not limited to, staffing, curriculum, policy, and programming, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University of Tennessee. The director retains final discretion as to all such decisions for the institute, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University of Tennessee. Acts 2022, ch. 963, § 1.
(a) The president of the University of Tennessee, in consultation with the governor, the speaker of the senate, and the speaker of the house of representatives, shall appoint initial members to serve on a board of fellows for the institute. Members of the initial board of fellows must be appointed by September 1, 2022.
(b) The board of fellows must consist of thirteen (13) members, of which: (1) At least nine (9) members must be, or have been, tenured professors or administrators or professors of practice at an institution of higher education in the United States; (2) Two (2) members must be distinguished former elected or appointed officials in the United States, and, while serving in their former elected or appointed position, must have been affiliated with different political parties; and (3) Two (2) members must be members of the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. If a member appointed under this subdivision (b)(3) vacates the member's position on the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy, then the member vacates the member's position on the board of fellows and must be replaced by the president of the University of Tennessee.
(1) At least nine (9) members must be, or have been, tenured professors or administrators or professors of practice at an institution of higher education in the United States;
(2) Two (2) members must be distinguished former elected or appointed officials in the United States, and, while serving in their former elected or appointed position, must have been affiliated with different political parties; and
(3) Two (2) members must be members of the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. If a member appointed under this subdivision (b)(3) vacates the member's position on the board of the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy, then the member vacates the member's position on the board of fellows and must be replaced by the president of the University of Tennessee.
(c) In order to establish staggered terms for members of the board, four (4) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of two (2) years; four (4) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of four (4) years; and five (5) of the initial members must be appointed to serve a term of six (6) years. After the initial appointments expire, the term for each member of the board appointed to succeed an initial member of the board of fellows is six (6) years. Board members may continue to serve on the board after their term expires, but only until a new member is appointed to replace the board member. Board members may be reappointed to multiple terms.
(d) The president of the University of Tennessee may remove a member from the board of fellows for misconduct or neglect of duty.
(e) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(3), when a member's term expires or when a vacancy on the board arises, the board of fellows shall, with the approval of the president of the University of Tennessee, and in consultation with the governor, the speaker of the senate, and the speaker of the house of representatives, appoint a new member to serve on the board. If the board appoints a new member to fill a vacancy, then the new member serves for the remainder of the unexpired term.
(f) The president of the University of Tennessee shall designate a member of the board of fellows to serve as the chair for a term of two (2) years. At the expiration of the chair's term, the president of the University of Tennessee shall appoint another member to serve as chair. There is no limitation on the number of terms a chair may serve. If the chair resigns from the position of chair, or resigns from the board of fellows, then the president of the University of Tennessee may designate another member to serve the remainder of the former chair's two-year term.
(g) The board of fellows shall advise the director appointed pursuant to § 49-9-1603 on matters related to the institute, including, but not limited to, staffing, curriculum, policy, and programming, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University of Tennessee. The director retains final discretion as to all such decisions for the institute, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University of Tennessee.
Acts 2022, ch. 963, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1008 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1008
AIDS education programs - Prevention of AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases
Status: in_force

(a) All material that includes information pertaining to the prevention of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases that is written, published, distributed or used by any public entity or is paid for, in whole or in part, with any public moneys, and that is directed to children in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12), shall place primary emphasis on abstinence from premarital intimacy and on the avoidance of drug abuse in controlling the spread of AIDS. (b) Adoption of any program of AIDS education shall be permissive and shall not be required in any LEA until adopted by the local board of education. Acts 1989, ch. 215, § 1.
(a) All material that includes information pertaining to the prevention of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases that is written, published, distributed or used by any public entity or is paid for, in whole or in part, with any public moneys, and that is directed to children in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12), shall place primary emphasis on abstinence from premarital intimacy and on the avoidance of drug abuse in controlling the spread of AIDS.
(b) Adoption of any program of AIDS education shall be permissive and shall not be required in any LEA until adopted by the local board of education.
Acts 1989, ch. 215, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-102 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-102
County mayors - Duties
Status: in_force

It is the duty of the county mayor to: (1) Approve the bond of the county director of schools; and (2) Make quarterly settlements with the county trustee and the county board of education of the elementary and the high school funds. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 9; Shan. Supp., § 1487a56; Code 1932, § 2347; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-205; Acts 2003, ch. 90, § 2.
It is the duty of the county mayor to:
(1) Approve the bond of the county director of schools; and
(2) Make quarterly settlements with the county trustee and the county board of education of the elementary and the high school funds.
Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 9; Shan. Supp., § 1487a56; Code 1932, § 2347; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-205; Acts 2003, ch. 90, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2306 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2306
[Repealed] Minimum nutritional standards for individual food items
Status: repealed

(a) The state board of education, in consultation and cooperation with the department of education and the department of health, shall promulgate rules to establish minimum nutritional standards for individual food items sold or offered for sale to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8) through vending machines or other sources, including school nutrition programs. (b) The rules shall address, but shall not be limited to, the following: (1) The establishment of minimum nutritional standards and nutritionally sound portion sizes for individual food items sold or offered for sale to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8) and standards governing the time, place and circumstances of any such sale or offer to sell; and (2) A requirement that a noncompliant vendor, individual or entity shall reimburse a school nutrition program for any penalties assessed against the school nutrition program for any violation of the rules committed by the noncompliant vendor, individual or entity. (c) Nothing in this section, or any rule promulgated pursuant to this section, shall be construed to prohibit a school nutrition program from selling or serving federally reimbursable meals to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8). (d) Nothing in this section, or any rule promulgated under § 49-6-2303 , shall be construed to prevent an LEA or a school from utilizing a request for proposals for any proposed contract for vending machines or vending services, pursuant to school board policy. Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 63, eff. 5/2/2019. Acts 1994, ch. 980, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The state board of education, in consultation and cooperation with the department of education and the department of health, shall promulgate rules to establish minimum nutritional standards for individual food items sold or offered for sale to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8) through vending machines or other sources, including school nutrition programs.
(b) The rules shall address, but shall not be limited to, the following: (1) The establishment of minimum nutritional standards and nutritionally sound portion sizes for individual food items sold or offered for sale to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8) and standards governing the time, place and circumstances of any such sale or offer to sell; and (2) A requirement that a noncompliant vendor, individual or entity shall reimburse a school nutrition program for any penalties assessed against the school nutrition program for any violation of the rules committed by the noncompliant vendor, individual or entity.
(1) The establishment of minimum nutritional standards and nutritionally sound portion sizes for individual food items sold or offered for sale to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8) and standards governing the time, place and circumstances of any such sale or offer to sell; and
(2) A requirement that a noncompliant vendor, individual or entity shall reimburse a school nutrition program for any penalties assessed against the school nutrition program for any violation of the rules committed by the noncompliant vendor, individual or entity.
(c) Nothing in this section, or any rule promulgated pursuant to this section, shall be construed to prohibit a school nutrition program from selling or serving federally reimbursable meals to pupils in pre-kindergarten through grade eight (pre-K-8).
(d) Nothing in this section, or any rule promulgated under § 49-6-2303 , shall be construed to prevent an LEA or a school from utilizing a request for proposals for any proposed contract for vending machines or vending services, pursuant to school board policy.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 63, eff. 5/2/2019.
Acts 1994, ch. 980, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1601 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1601
Establishment of an institute of American civics
Status: in_force

(a) There is established an institute of American civics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The board of trustees for the University of Tennessee may rename the institute consistent with its philanthropic naming governance procedures. (b) It is the purpose of the institute to: (1) Foster a deeper understanding of the structures and institutions of federal, state, and local government; (2) Further the understanding of the principles and philosophies that contributed to the foundation and development of the United States and the state of Tennessee; (3) Promote civil discourse and constructive debate; (4) Enhance education in the fields of politics, economics, philosophy, American history, American government, and other related fields as appropriate, with a focus on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship; fundamental democratic principles; and the ways in which those principles are expressed in and through our federal, state, and local institutions; (5) Provide nonpartisan resources to students, faculty, state government agencies, educators, and the general public regarding civic affairs; (6) Foster civic engagement through full and fair discussions that promote civil dialogue among those holding conflicting points of view; and (7) Assist in ensuring that the University of Tennessee serves as a robust marketplace of ideas for all students and faculty. (c) In order to carry out the purposes set forth in subsection (b), the institute is authorized to: (1) Hire faculty and staff; (2) Enroll students; (3) Develop and offer courses in new undergraduate major and minor programs; (4) Offer general education and honors courses; (5) Provide and facilitate internships and other relevant experiences for students and the general public; (6) Hold events; and (7) Take other actions as appropriate, subject to the supervision of the chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the general supervision of the president of the University of Tennessee system. (d) Upon its establishment, the institute may be physically housed in the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (e) The institute shall operate as an academic unit within the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (f) The institute shall provide programming addressing American civics and related topics for the University of Tennessee system. Acts 2022, ch. 963, § 1.
(a) There is established an institute of American civics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The board of trustees for the University of Tennessee may rename the institute consistent with its philanthropic naming governance procedures.
(b) It is the purpose of the institute to: (1) Foster a deeper understanding of the structures and institutions of federal, state, and local government; (2) Further the understanding of the principles and philosophies that contributed to the foundation and development of the United States and the state of Tennessee; (3) Promote civil discourse and constructive debate; (4) Enhance education in the fields of politics, economics, philosophy, American history, American government, and other related fields as appropriate, with a focus on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship; fundamental democratic principles; and the ways in which those principles are expressed in and through our federal, state, and local institutions; (5) Provide nonpartisan resources to students, faculty, state government agencies, educators, and the general public regarding civic affairs; (6) Foster civic engagement through full and fair discussions that promote civil dialogue among those holding conflicting points of view; and (7) Assist in ensuring that the University of Tennessee serves as a robust marketplace of ideas for all students and faculty.
(1) Foster a deeper understanding of the structures and institutions of federal, state, and local government;
(2) Further the understanding of the principles and philosophies that contributed to the foundation and development of the United States and the state of Tennessee;
(3) Promote civil discourse and constructive debate;
(4) Enhance education in the fields of politics, economics, philosophy, American history, American government, and other related fields as appropriate, with a focus on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship; fundamental democratic principles; and the ways in which those principles are expressed in and through our federal, state, and local institutions;
(5) Provide nonpartisan resources to students, faculty, state government agencies, educators, and the general public regarding civic affairs;
(6) Foster civic engagement through full and fair discussions that promote civil dialogue among those holding conflicting points of view; and
(7) Assist in ensuring that the University of Tennessee serves as a robust marketplace of ideas for all students and faculty.
(c) In order to carry out the purposes set forth in subsection (b), the institute is authorized to: (1) Hire faculty and staff; (2) Enroll students; (3) Develop and offer courses in new undergraduate major and minor programs; (4) Offer general education and honors courses; (5) Provide and facilitate internships and other relevant experiences for students and the general public; (6) Hold events; and (7) Take other actions as appropriate, subject to the supervision of the chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the general supervision of the president of the University of Tennessee system.
(1) Hire faculty and staff;
(2) Enroll students;
(3) Develop and offer courses in new undergraduate major and minor programs;
(4) Offer general education and honors courses;
(5) Provide and facilitate internships and other relevant experiences for students and the general public;
(6) Hold events; and
(7) Take other actions as appropriate, subject to the supervision of the chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the general supervision of the president of the University of Tennessee system.
(d) Upon its establishment, the institute may be physically housed in the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(e) The institute shall operate as an academic unit within the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(f) The institute shall provide programming addressing American civics and related topics for the University of Tennessee system.
Acts 2022, ch. 963, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-218 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-218
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 183, s 11, eff. 7/1/2021. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 280, s 1, eff. 5/2/2019.
Repealed by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 183, s 11, eff. 7/1/2021.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 280, s 1, eff. 5/2/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1208 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1208
Creation in state treasury of a workforce advanced training fund - Appropriation of funds - Administration of fund
Status: in_force

There is created in the state treasury a "workforce advanced training fund," referred to in this part as the "fund." The fund shall consist of moneys appropriated to the fund by the general assembly. Interest accruing on investments and deposits of the fund shall be carried forward into the subsequent fiscal year. Any fund balance remaining unexpended at the end of a fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year. Moneys in the fund shall be invested by the state treasurer in accordance with § 9-4-603 . The fund shall be administered by the Tennessee higher education commission. Moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the Tennessee higher education commission to cover the costs associated with the establishment of the LEAP and any grants authorized pursuant to this part. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 468, s 3, eff. 7/1/2019. Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 338, s 9, eff. 1/1/2014.
There is created in the state treasury a "workforce advanced training fund," referred to in this part as the "fund." The fund shall consist of moneys appropriated to the fund by the general assembly. Interest accruing on investments and deposits of the fund shall be carried forward into the subsequent fiscal year. Any fund balance remaining unexpended at the end of a fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not be transferred or revert to the general fund of the state at the end of any fiscal year. Moneys in the fund shall be invested by the state treasurer in accordance with § 9-4-603 . The fund shall be administered by the Tennessee higher education commission. Moneys in the fund shall be subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the Tennessee higher education commission to cover the costs associated with the establishment of the LEAP and any grants authorized pursuant to this part.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 468, s 3, eff. 7/1/2019.
Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 338, s 9, eff. 1/1/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1901 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1901
Annual training for teachers and principals
Status: in_force

All employees of each LEA shall attend the annual in-service training in suicide prevention required to be provided to teachers and principals in accordance with § 49-6-3004(c)(1) or other equivalent training. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 623, s 2, eff. 7/1/2016.
All employees of each LEA shall attend the annual in-service training in suicide prevention required to be provided to teachers and principals in accordance with § 49-6-3004(c)(1) or other equivalent training.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 623, s 2, eff. 7/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-321 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-321
[Repealed] Reserved
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 31, eff. 5/2/2019. Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 16; T.C.A., § 49-620.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 31, eff. 5/2/2019.
Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 16; T.C.A., § 49-620.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-206 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-206
Preschool/parenting learning centers for teen parents
Status: in_force

The departments of education and human services shall develop and implement statewide a joint program of technical assistance, consultative services, workshops, seminars, training opportunities and other appropriate methods of encouragement and support for any LEA that establishes, or that is considering establishment of, a public school based preschool/parenting learning center to provide child care and parenting training for teen parents who are enrolled as students and to reduce dropout rates among such parents. The joint program shall also provide assistance to any such agency in developing a transportation plan that will enable and encourage teen parents and their children to fully participate and benefit from the center. Additionally, the joint program shall provide assistance to any such agency in utilizing the center for parenting and child development course electives for students who are not parents, in order to instruct such students on the realities and difficulties associated with early parenthood. The departments shall jointly undertake continuing activities to inform and remind all LEAs of the program established pursuant to this section. To the extent that funding is available for such purpose as contained within the general appropriations act, other appropriate methods of encouragement and support may include state implementation grants awarded on a matching fund basis, the dollar amount of any state implementation grant to be determined by the department of education, acting in consultation with the department of human services. Acts 1988, ch. 1006, §§ 2, 3; 1996, ch. 1079, § 183; 2011, ch. 410, § 3(dd).
The departments of education and human services shall develop and implement statewide a joint program of technical assistance, consultative services, workshops, seminars, training opportunities and other appropriate methods of encouragement and support for any LEA that establishes, or that is considering establishment of, a public school based preschool/parenting learning center to provide child care and parenting training for teen parents who are enrolled as students and to reduce dropout rates among such parents. The joint program shall also provide assistance to any such agency in developing a transportation plan that will enable and encourage teen parents and their children to fully participate and benefit from the center. Additionally, the joint program shall provide assistance to any such agency in utilizing the center for parenting and child development course electives for students who are not parents, in order to instruct such students on the realities and difficulties associated with early parenthood. The departments shall jointly undertake continuing activities to inform and remind all LEAs of the program established pursuant to this section. To the extent that funding is available for such purpose as contained within the general appropriations act, other appropriate methods of encouragement and support may include state implementation grants awarded on a matching fund basis, the dollar amount of any state implementation grant to be determined by the department of education, acting in consultation with the department of human services.
Acts 1988, ch. 1006, §§ 2, 3; 1996, ch. 1079, § 183; 2011, ch. 410, § 3(dd).
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3705 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3705
School in need of intervention
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2), a local board of education shall require a priority school to participate in the school turnaround pilot program if the department designates the school as a school in need of intervention. (b) (1) A school in need of intervention that is required by the school's local board of education to participate in the pilot program must remain in the pilot program until the conclusion of the pilot program. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), a local board of education shall not require a priority school designated by the department as a school in need of intervention for purposes of the pilot program to remain in the pilot program, if the school is designated as a Title I school, serves students in any of the grades six through eight (6-8), and has not met the priority school exit criteria established by the state's federally approved Every Student Succeeds Act plan established pursuant to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)( 20 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.) by the end of the 2023-2024 school year. The local board of education shall notify the commissioner of education and the independent school turnaround expert under contract with the board pursuant to § 49-6-3707(b) , in writing, that the school in need of intervention is exiting the pilot program. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 863,s 2, eff. 5/1/2024. Acts 2021 , ch. 578, § 1.
(a) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2), a local board of education shall require a priority school to participate in the school turnaround pilot program if the department designates the school as a school in need of intervention.
(b) (1) A school in need of intervention that is required by the school's local board of education to participate in the pilot program must remain in the pilot program until the conclusion of the pilot program. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), a local board of education shall not require a priority school designated by the department as a school in need of intervention for purposes of the pilot program to remain in the pilot program, if the school is designated as a Title I school, serves students in any of the grades six through eight (6-8), and has not met the priority school exit criteria established by the state's federally approved Every Student Succeeds Act plan established pursuant to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)( 20 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.) by the end of the 2023-2024 school year. The local board of education shall notify the commissioner of education and the independent school turnaround expert under contract with the board pursuant to § 49-6-3707(b) , in writing, that the school in need of intervention is exiting the pilot program.
(1) A school in need of intervention that is required by the school's local board of education to participate in the pilot program must remain in the pilot program until the conclusion of the pilot program.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (b)(1), a local board of education shall not require a priority school designated by the department as a school in need of intervention for purposes of the pilot program to remain in the pilot program, if the school is designated as a Title I school, serves students in any of the grades six through eight (6-8), and has not met the priority school exit criteria established by the state's federally approved Every Student Succeeds Act plan established pursuant to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)( 20 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.) by the end of the 2023-2024 school year. The local board of education shall notify the commissioner of education and the independent school turnaround expert under contract with the board pursuant to § 49-6-3707(b) , in writing, that the school in need of intervention is exiting the pilot program.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 863,s 2, eff. 5/1/2024.
Acts 2021 , ch. 578, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-709 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-709
Funding
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to contract with the appropriate agencies of the federal government to secure the maximum benefits under current federal legislation concerning vocational rehabilitation, and to cooperate with the agencies in the adoption of methods of administration and the meeting of conditions that are necessary in order to secure the benefits. (2) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to accept local tax funds for the purposes of this part by direct transfer from local governmental units and to use the funds to match the federal funds that may be available under current federal legislation to finance the purposes of this part. When the local and federal funds are received, they shall be used for financing the rehabilitation centers authorized by this part; provided, that each center shall be entitled to receive no more than one dollar ($1.00) from the division for each thirty cents (30¢) transferred to the division by the local governmental unit supporting the center; provided, further, that any remaining funds thereafter shall be used by the division to pay program costs, including, but not limited to, case services to trainees. The division is not liable for the payment of any funds to a rehabilitation center or centers other than the funds that may accrue from the local tax funds and federal funds as described in this subdivision (a)(2). In hardship cases, the division, when authorized by the commissioner, may make reasonable payments not in excess of five percent (5%) over the amounts authorized in this subdivision (a)(2); provided, that the funds are available to the division and are not otherwise encumbered or committed. (b) Each rehabilitation center shall pay into a fund for the use of all of the rehabilitation centers a reasonable amount, as determined by the commissioner, of any gross income from contract work, which reasonable amount shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the gross income. The sums, when paid to the division, shall be deposited as public funds to be used in developing other centers and to cover expenditures not specified in the budget or budgets of a local center or centers, and to assist any and all of the centers to secure the necessary equipment and machinery to increase rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities and to guarantee withholding payments for purposes of participation in the social security program of clients in sheltered employment status. (c) (1) There is established a trust fund for the division to be held and controlled by the commissioner, into which trust fund any individual, organization, agency or institution, either public or private, may make contributions to be used by the division to provide rehabilitation services to Tennesseans with intellectual and other severe disabilities. (2) The funds in the trust fund shall be considered public funds and may be used to match any federal funds to serve people with intellectual and other severe disabilities in this state. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 558,s 5, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 1965, ch. 332, §§ 10, 13, 14; 1969, ch. 215, §§ 3, 4; 1977, ch. 57, § 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-2825, 49-2827, 49-2828; Acts 1985, ch. 227, § 5; 1989, ch. 4, § 3; 2001, ch. 174, § 12; 2010 , ch. 734, §§ 5, 6; 2011 , ch. 47, §§ 47 - 49.
(a) (1) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to contract with the appropriate agencies of the federal government to secure the maximum benefits under current federal legislation concerning vocational rehabilitation, and to cooperate with the agencies in the adoption of methods of administration and the meeting of conditions that are necessary in order to secure the benefits. (2) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to accept local tax funds for the purposes of this part by direct transfer from local governmental units and to use the funds to match the federal funds that may be available under current federal legislation to finance the purposes of this part. When the local and federal funds are received, they shall be used for financing the rehabilitation centers authorized by this part; provided, that each center shall be entitled to receive no more than one dollar ($1.00) from the division for each thirty cents (30¢) transferred to the division by the local governmental unit supporting the center; provided, further, that any remaining funds thereafter shall be used by the division to pay program costs, including, but not limited to, case services to trainees. The division is not liable for the payment of any funds to a rehabilitation center or centers other than the funds that may accrue from the local tax funds and federal funds as described in this subdivision (a)(2). In hardship cases, the division, when authorized by the commissioner, may make reasonable payments not in excess of five percent (5%) over the amounts authorized in this subdivision (a)(2); provided, that the funds are available to the division and are not otherwise encumbered or committed.
(1) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to contract with the appropriate agencies of the federal government to secure the maximum benefits under current federal legislation concerning vocational rehabilitation, and to cooperate with the agencies in the adoption of methods of administration and the meeting of conditions that are necessary in order to secure the benefits.
(2) The commissioner, through the division, is authorized to accept local tax funds for the purposes of this part by direct transfer from local governmental units and to use the funds to match the federal funds that may be available under current federal legislation to finance the purposes of this part. When the local and federal funds are received, they shall be used for financing the rehabilitation centers authorized by this part; provided, that each center shall be entitled to receive no more than one dollar ($1.00) from the division for each thirty cents (30¢) transferred to the division by the local governmental unit supporting the center; provided, further, that any remaining funds thereafter shall be used by the division to pay program costs, including, but not limited to, case services to trainees. The division is not liable for the payment of any funds to a rehabilitation center or centers other than the funds that may accrue from the local tax funds and federal funds as described in this subdivision (a)(2). In hardship cases, the division, when authorized by the commissioner, may make reasonable payments not in excess of five percent (5%) over the amounts authorized in this subdivision (a)(2); provided, that the funds are available to the division and are not otherwise encumbered or committed.
(b) Each rehabilitation center shall pay into a fund for the use of all of the rehabilitation centers a reasonable amount, as determined by the commissioner, of any gross income from contract work, which reasonable amount shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the gross income. The sums, when paid to the division, shall be deposited as public funds to be used in developing other centers and to cover expenditures not specified in the budget or budgets of a local center or centers, and to assist any and all of the centers to secure the necessary equipment and machinery to increase rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities and to guarantee withholding payments for purposes of participation in the social security program of clients in sheltered employment status.
(c) (1) There is established a trust fund for the division to be held and controlled by the commissioner, into which trust fund any individual, organization, agency or institution, either public or private, may make contributions to be used by the division to provide rehabilitation services to Tennesseans with intellectual and other severe disabilities. (2) The funds in the trust fund shall be considered public funds and may be used to match any federal funds to serve people with intellectual and other severe disabilities in this state.
(1) There is established a trust fund for the division to be held and controlled by the commissioner, into which trust fund any individual, organization, agency or institution, either public or private, may make contributions to be used by the division to provide rehabilitation services to Tennesseans with intellectual and other severe disabilities.
(2) The funds in the trust fund shall be considered public funds and may be used to match any federal funds to serve people with intellectual and other severe disabilities in this state.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 558,s 5, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 1965, ch. 332, §§ 10, 13, 14; 1969, ch. 215, §§ 3, 4; 1977, ch. 57, § 2; T.C.A., §§ 49-2825, 49-2827, 49-2828; Acts 1985, ch. 227, § 5; 1989, ch. 4, § 3; 2001, ch. 174, § 12; 2010 , ch. 734, §§ 5, 6; 2011 , ch. 47, §§ 47 - 49.