Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-185 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-185
Artificial intelligence - Adoption and posting 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 board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, and each local governing board of trustees of a state university shall adopt a policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence technology by students, faculty, and staff for instructional and assignment purposes. The policy must be implemented no later than July 1, 2025. The Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, does not apply to a policy adopted pursuant to this subsection (b). (c) Public institutions of higher education are encouraged to collaborate in the development and implementation of policies regarding the use of artificial intelligence technology pursuant to subsection (b). (d) The board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, and each local governing board of trustees of a state university shall post the policy adopted pursuant to subsection (b) on the institution's website and submit the policy to the chair of the education committee of the senate and the chair of the education administration committee of the house of representatives no later than July 1, 2025. If the governing board of a public institution of higher education fails to adopt and submit a policy as required by this section, then the governing board for the respective institution must appear before the joint government operations committee no later than sixty (60) days after July 1, 2025, to report on the governing board's noncompliance. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 550,s 1, 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 board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, and each local governing board of trustees of a state university shall adopt a policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence technology by students, faculty, and staff for instructional and assignment purposes. The policy must be implemented no later than July 1, 2025. The Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, does not apply to a policy adopted pursuant to this subsection (b).
(c) Public institutions of higher education are encouraged to collaborate in the development and implementation of policies regarding the use of artificial intelligence technology pursuant to subsection (b).
(d) The board of trustees of the University of Tennessee, the board of regents, and each local governing board of trustees of a state university shall post the policy adopted pursuant to subsection (b) on the institution's website and submit the policy to the chair of the education committee of the senate and the chair of the education administration committee of the house of representatives no later than July 1, 2025. If the governing board of a public institution of higher education fails to adopt and submit a policy as required by this section, then the governing board for the respective institution must appear before the joint government operations committee no later than sixty (60) days after July 1, 2025, to report on the governing board's noncompliance.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 550,s 1, eff. 3/11/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-607 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-607
Disbursement of donations
Status: in_force

(a) Donations to a board of education shall be received and disbursed in accordance with § 49-6-2006 . (b) In addition to any requirements established by § 49-6-2006(a) , the following specific conditions shall apply: (1) Any donation made by a school support organization to a board of education or school shall be disbursed only in accordance with any written conditions that the school support organization may place upon the disbursement of the funds and shall be in accordance with the goals and objectives of the school support organization; (2) School support organization funds that are donated to an individual school shall not be considered as student activity funds. These funds shall be considered instead as internal school funds from the point of their donation to the respective school; and (3) Any disbursements of donated funds by a school official or employee shall be made in accordance with any relevant federal, state, or local government laws, including any relevant purchasing laws or requirements of the accounting policy manual produced according to § 49-2-110(e) . Acts 2007 , ch. 326, § 8.
(a) Donations to a board of education shall be received and disbursed in accordance with § 49-6-2006 .
(b) In addition to any requirements established by § 49-6-2006(a) , the following specific conditions shall apply: (1) Any donation made by a school support organization to a board of education or school shall be disbursed only in accordance with any written conditions that the school support organization may place upon the disbursement of the funds and shall be in accordance with the goals and objectives of the school support organization; (2) School support organization funds that are donated to an individual school shall not be considered as student activity funds. These funds shall be considered instead as internal school funds from the point of their donation to the respective school; and (3) Any disbursements of donated funds by a school official or employee shall be made in accordance with any relevant federal, state, or local government laws, including any relevant purchasing laws or requirements of the accounting policy manual produced according to § 49-2-110(e) .
(1) Any donation made by a school support organization to a board of education or school shall be disbursed only in accordance with any written conditions that the school support organization may place upon the disbursement of the funds and shall be in accordance with the goals and objectives of the school support organization;
(2) School support organization funds that are donated to an individual school shall not be considered as student activity funds. These funds shall be considered instead as internal school funds from the point of their donation to the respective school; and
(3) Any disbursements of donated funds by a school official or employee shall be made in accordance with any relevant federal, state, or local government laws, including any relevant purchasing laws or requirements of the accounting policy manual produced according to § 49-2-110(e) .
Acts 2007 , ch. 326, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-2402 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-2402
Applicability of part
Status: in_force

The requirements of this part shall apply to every public institution of higher education in this state. Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 336,s 3, eff. 1/1/2018.
The requirements of this part shall apply to every public institution of higher education in this state.
Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 336,s 3, eff. 1/1/2018.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-6009 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-6009
Release of state assessment blueprints and scoring methodology - Testing windows for state assessments
Status: in_force

(a) Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the department of education shall annually release the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program (TCAP) and end-of-course state assessment blueprints and scoring methodology to LEAs and post such information to the department's website. (b) In establishing testing windows for state assessments, the department of education shall provide maximum flexibility to LEAs and issue guidance related to testing preparation and logistics to ensure the entire school year continues to be utilized for instruction. Such guidance shall focus on daily quality instruction and engaged learning as the most effective test preparation and seek to minimize time spent on preparation for specific tests. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 844, s 5, eff. 7/1/2016.
(a) Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the department of education shall annually release the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program (TCAP) and end-of-course state assessment blueprints and scoring methodology to LEAs and post such information to the department's website.
(b) In establishing testing windows for state assessments, the department of education shall provide maximum flexibility to LEAs and issue guidance related to testing preparation and logistics to ensure the entire school year continues to be utilized for instruction. Such guidance shall focus on daily quality instruction and engaged learning as the most effective test preparation and seek to minimize time spent on preparation for specific tests.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 844, s 5, eff. 7/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-140 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-140
Confidentiality of gift records
Status: in_force

Records and information that concern gifts to public institutions of higher education or foundations established under § 49-7-107 , and that include the name, address, telephone number, social security number, driver license information, or any other personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family, shall not be open for public inspection. Public institutions of higher education and foundations established under § 49-7-107 shall create an annual report of gifts received during each twelve-month period, including the amount of the gift and a general description of its use, but not including any personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family. Upon request, the annual report of gifts shall be made available for inspection by any citizen of Tennessee. Upon request, the attorney general and reporter may review all records or information concerning gifts to public institutions of higher education, and to foundations established under § 49-7-107 , including all personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family. Acts 2007 , ch. 113, § 1.
Records and information that concern gifts to public institutions of higher education or foundations established under § 49-7-107 , and that include the name, address, telephone number, social security number, driver license information, or any other personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family, shall not be open for public inspection. Public institutions of higher education and foundations established under § 49-7-107 shall create an annual report of gifts received during each twelve-month period, including the amount of the gift and a general description of its use, but not including any personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family. Upon request, the annual report of gifts shall be made available for inspection by any citizen of Tennessee. Upon request, the attorney general and reporter may review all records or information concerning gifts to public institutions of higher education, and to foundations established under § 49-7-107 , including all personally identifiable information about the donor or members of the donor's family.
Acts 2007 , ch. 113, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-408 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-408
Statewide DARE club established - Purpose
Status: in_force

(a) The state board of education, in consultation with the commissioner of safety, shall establish a statewide DARE club in which any student in grades six through twelve (6-12) may join and participate. Each LEA, middle school, junior high school or high school desiring to do so may form a chapter of the statewide DARE club. (b) The primary purpose of the DARE club shall be to continue and reinforce the drug abuse resistance education the students may have received in kindergarten through grade six (K-6). (c) The state board may pattern the organization, rules, bylaws and similar procedural requirements of the club after other successful statewide clubs, such as Future Farmers of America, Future Homemakers of America and 4-H clubs. Acts 1994, ch. 783, § 1.
(a) The state board of education, in consultation with the commissioner of safety, shall establish a statewide DARE club in which any student in grades six through twelve (6-12) may join and participate. Each LEA, middle school, junior high school or high school desiring to do so may form a chapter of the statewide DARE club.
(b) The primary purpose of the DARE club shall be to continue and reinforce the drug abuse resistance education the students may have received in kindergarten through grade six (K-6).
(c) The state board may pattern the organization, rules, bylaws and similar procedural requirements of the club after other successful statewide clubs, such as Future Farmers of America, Future Homemakers of America and 4-H clubs.
Acts 1994, ch. 783, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-506 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-506
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 794, s 16, eff. 8/1/2020. Acts 1977, ch. 282, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-5407.
Repealed by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 794, s 16, eff. 8/1/2020.
Acts 1977, ch. 282, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-5407.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-703 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-703
Director's action on application
Status: in_force

Each request for leave must be acted upon in accordance with board policy, any negotiated contract or applicable state or federal law by the director of schools within fifteen (15) days. Each applicant shall be notified in writing of the action of the director of schools, and the beginning and ending dates of the leave that is granted. Acts 1973, ch. 175, § 1; 1975, ch. 51, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-1315; Acts 1997, ch. 365, § 2.
Each request for leave must be acted upon in accordance with board policy, any negotiated contract or applicable state or federal law by the director of schools within fifteen (15) days. Each applicant shall be notified in writing of the action of the director of schools, and the beginning and ending dates of the leave that is granted.
Acts 1973, ch. 175, § 1; 1975, ch. 51, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-1315; Acts 1997, ch. 365, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-903 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-903
Programs authorized
Status: in_force

The institution is authorized to provide comprehensive one- and two-year occupational, college parallel, continuing education and community service programs. Acts 1988, ch. 1020, § 4.
The institution is authorized to provide comprehensive one- and two-year occupational, college parallel, continuing education and community service programs.
Acts 1988, ch. 1020, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-811 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-811
Participation of nonteacher employees of LEA in teachers' sick leave bank
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision of this part to the contrary, if an LEA has established a teachers' sick leave bank, then the LEA may permit any employee of the LEA who is not a teacher to participate in either the teachers' sick leave bank or a classified employee sick bank; provided, that the employee is eligible to accrue sick leave under the employee's contract of employment. The requirements for teachers' participation in the sick leave bank in §§ 49-5-806 , 49-5-807 , 49-5-808 and 49-5-809 shall apply to an employee who is not a teacher and who is seeking to participate in the sick leave bank. Nothing in this section shall be construed to interfere with existing LEA policies relative to the sick leave bank that are in effect on May 1, 2014. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 888, s 1, eff. 5/1/2014.
Notwithstanding any provision of this part to the contrary, if an LEA has established a teachers' sick leave bank, then the LEA may permit any employee of the LEA who is not a teacher to participate in either the teachers' sick leave bank or a classified employee sick bank; provided, that the employee is eligible to accrue sick leave under the employee's contract of employment. The requirements for teachers' participation in the sick leave bank in §§ 49-5-806 , 49-5-807 , 49-5-808 and 49-5-809 shall apply to an employee who is not a teacher and who is seeking to participate in the sick leave bank. Nothing in this section shall be construed to interfere with existing LEA policies relative to the sick leave bank that are in effect on May 1, 2014.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 888, s 1, eff. 5/1/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-1104 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-1104
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Acts 1986, ch. 843, § 2; repealed by Acts 2018 , ch. 725, § 55, effective April 18, 2018.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-119 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-119
Diplomas for World War, Korean War or Vietnam War veterans
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Each LEA may issue high school diplomas to veterans who failed to receive diplomas due to an interruption of their education by service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War. (2) An LEA shall not require that the veteran be a current resident of this state at the time of the veteran's request for issuance of a high school diploma. (b) (1) Each LEA may issue a high school diploma authorized by subsection (a) to an eligible deceased veteran, upon the request of the veteran's surviving spouse, if any, or other immediate family members. (2) An LEA shall not require that a deceased veteran's spouse or immediate family be current residents of this state at the time of the spouse's or immediate family's request for issuance of the deceased veteran's high school diploma. Acts 2000, ch. 773, § 1; 2001, ch. 191, §§ 1, 2; 2004, ch. 468, § 1; 2005, ch. 108, § 1; 2010, ch. 736, § 1.
(a) (1) Each LEA may issue high school diplomas to veterans who failed to receive diplomas due to an interruption of their education by service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War. (2) An LEA shall not require that the veteran be a current resident of this state at the time of the veteran's request for issuance of a high school diploma.
(1) Each LEA may issue high school diplomas to veterans who failed to receive diplomas due to an interruption of their education by service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War.
(2) An LEA shall not require that the veteran be a current resident of this state at the time of the veteran's request for issuance of a high school diploma.
(b) (1) Each LEA may issue a high school diploma authorized by subsection (a) to an eligible deceased veteran, upon the request of the veteran's surviving spouse, if any, or other immediate family members. (2) An LEA shall not require that a deceased veteran's spouse or immediate family be current residents of this state at the time of the spouse's or immediate family's request for issuance of the deceased veteran's high school diploma.
(1) Each LEA may issue a high school diploma authorized by subsection (a) to an eligible deceased veteran, upon the request of the veteran's surviving spouse, if any, or other immediate family members.
(2) An LEA shall not require that a deceased veteran's spouse or immediate family be current residents of this state at the time of the spouse's or immediate family's request for issuance of the deceased veteran's high school diploma.
Acts 2000, ch. 773, § 1; 2001, ch. 191, §§ 1, 2; 2004, ch. 468, § 1; 2005, ch. 108, § 1; 2010, ch. 736, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-302 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-302
Optometry students
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "School or college of optometry" means an accredited institution offering courses leading to the degree of doctor of optometry, acting through its governing body; and (2) "Tennessee student" means any student who qualifies as a resident of the state for purposes of tuition according to rules and regulations of the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee or the board of regents of the state university and community college system. (b) The Tennessee state contract administrator for the southern regional education board is authorized to contract with state or privately owned or endowed optometry schools or colleges within the southern regional education board region for the purpose of providing financial payments to the colleges in exchange for the colleges reserving places for Tennessee students at the rate per student approved by the southern regional education board. (c) Any financial payment authorized under this section shall be made in accordance with the following provisions and limitations: (1) Optometry colleges that annually enroll Tennessee students under the southern regional education board contract program may receive financial payments up to the total number specified in the contract, at the rate per student approved by the southern regional education board during any fiscal year; and (2) The financial assistance shall be continued from year to year until the entering Tennessee student has been granted a degree in optometry, but not for more than four (4) years, and contracts provided for in this section may set forth the terms and provisions for continuation of the payments as provided by the southern regional education board. Acts 1973, ch. 394, §§ 1, 2; 1974, ch. 524, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 49-3605, 49-3606.
(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "School or college of optometry" means an accredited institution offering courses leading to the degree of doctor of optometry, acting through its governing body; and (2) "Tennessee student" means any student who qualifies as a resident of the state for purposes of tuition according to rules and regulations of the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee or the board of regents of the state university and community college system.
(1) "School or college of optometry" means an accredited institution offering courses leading to the degree of doctor of optometry, acting through its governing body; and
(2) "Tennessee student" means any student who qualifies as a resident of the state for purposes of tuition according to rules and regulations of the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee or the board of regents of the state university and community college system.
(b) The Tennessee state contract administrator for the southern regional education board is authorized to contract with state or privately owned or endowed optometry schools or colleges within the southern regional education board region for the purpose of providing financial payments to the colleges in exchange for the colleges reserving places for Tennessee students at the rate per student approved by the southern regional education board.
(c) Any financial payment authorized under this section shall be made in accordance with the following provisions and limitations: (1) Optometry colleges that annually enroll Tennessee students under the southern regional education board contract program may receive financial payments up to the total number specified in the contract, at the rate per student approved by the southern regional education board during any fiscal year; and (2) The financial assistance shall be continued from year to year until the entering Tennessee student has been granted a degree in optometry, but not for more than four (4) years, and contracts provided for in this section may set forth the terms and provisions for continuation of the payments as provided by the southern regional education board.
(1) Optometry colleges that annually enroll Tennessee students under the southern regional education board contract program may receive financial payments up to the total number specified in the contract, at the rate per student approved by the southern regional education board during any fiscal year; and
(2) The financial assistance shall be continued from year to year until the entering Tennessee student has been granted a degree in optometry, but not for more than four (4) years, and contracts provided for in this section may set forth the terms and provisions for continuation of the payments as provided by the southern regional education board.
Acts 1973, ch. 394, §§ 1, 2; 1974, ch. 524, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 49-3605, 49-3606.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-18-105 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 18 / Section 49-18-105
Requirements of course providers
Status: in_force

(a) To be approved as a course provider pursuant to this chapter, a provider shall: (1) Follow the approval process of the department as established under § 49-18-104(a) . No provider applicant shall act as a course provider until approved by the state board. All decisions of the state board concerning approval of provider applicants shall be final and not subject to appeal; however, a provider applicant that has been denied approval may submit a new application according to the department's approval process for the school year following the school year for which the application was denied; (2) Be subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, or need for special education services; (3) Comply with all applicable state and federal student data privacy provisions, including, but not limited to, the Data Accessibility Transparency and Accountability Act, compiled in chapter 1, part 7 of this title; § 10-7-504 ; and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g ); (4) Provide an assurance that all information and resources for extended learning, in person, online, or blended learning courses are fully accessible for students of all abilities, including that: (A) All courses submitted for approval are reviewed to ensure the courses meet legal accessibility standards; (B) The provider has created and promulgated an accessibility online learning policy; (C) The provider has an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Section 504 coordinator, a grievance policy, and annual notifications; (D) The provider has policies and activities to ensure its organizational and course websites meet accessibility requirements; and (E) The provider has no examination or test where a specific score is required to participate in course access program courses beyond completion of prerequisite coursework or demonstrated mastery of prerequisite material; (5) Demonstrate financial viability; (6) Provide an assurance that the provider will electronically provide, in compliance with guidelines set by the department, a detailed student record of enrollment, performance, course completion, and course grading information to the participating student's home LEA; (7) Comply with applicable virtual learning requirements established in chapter 16 of this title, if offering virtual learning courses; (8) Comply with class size requirements established in § 49-1-104 and instructional and planning time requirements established by the state board; and (9) Ensure each teacher of a course access program course is licensed to teach in this state and meets the qualifications to teach in compliance with the rules of the state board. (b) The state board or department may exclude a course provider at any time if the state board or department finds that a provider has failed to comply with this chapter, the rules of the state board, or the procedures of the department. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 929, s 5, eff. 7/1/2022. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784, s 8, eff. 4/20/2018. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 889, s 6, eff. 4/27/2016.
(a) To be approved as a course provider pursuant to this chapter, a provider shall: (1) Follow the approval process of the department as established under § 49-18-104(a) . No provider applicant shall act as a course provider until approved by the state board. All decisions of the state board concerning approval of provider applicants shall be final and not subject to appeal; however, a provider applicant that has been denied approval may submit a new application according to the department's approval process for the school year following the school year for which the application was denied; (2) Be subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, or need for special education services; (3) Comply with all applicable state and federal student data privacy provisions, including, but not limited to, the Data Accessibility Transparency and Accountability Act, compiled in chapter 1, part 7 of this title; § 10-7-504 ; and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g ); (4) Provide an assurance that all information and resources for extended learning, in person, online, or blended learning courses are fully accessible for students of all abilities, including that: (A) All courses submitted for approval are reviewed to ensure the courses meet legal accessibility standards; (B) The provider has created and promulgated an accessibility online learning policy; (C) The provider has an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Section 504 coordinator, a grievance policy, and annual notifications; (D) The provider has policies and activities to ensure its organizational and course websites meet accessibility requirements; and (E) The provider has no examination or test where a specific score is required to participate in course access program courses beyond completion of prerequisite coursework or demonstrated mastery of prerequisite material; (5) Demonstrate financial viability; (6) Provide an assurance that the provider will electronically provide, in compliance with guidelines set by the department, a detailed student record of enrollment, performance, course completion, and course grading information to the participating student's home LEA; (7) Comply with applicable virtual learning requirements established in chapter 16 of this title, if offering virtual learning courses; (8) Comply with class size requirements established in § 49-1-104 and instructional and planning time requirements established by the state board; and (9) Ensure each teacher of a course access program course is licensed to teach in this state and meets the qualifications to teach in compliance with the rules of the state board.
(1) Follow the approval process of the department as established under § 49-18-104(a) . No provider applicant shall act as a course provider until approved by the state board. All decisions of the state board concerning approval of provider applicants shall be final and not subject to appeal; however, a provider applicant that has been denied approval may submit a new application according to the department's approval process for the school year following the school year for which the application was denied;
(2) Be subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, ancestry, or need for special education services;
(3) Comply with all applicable state and federal student data privacy provisions, including, but not limited to, the Data Accessibility Transparency and Accountability Act, compiled in chapter 1, part 7 of this title; § 10-7-504 ; and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ( 20 U.S.C. § 1232g );
(4) Provide an assurance that all information and resources for extended learning, in person, online, or blended learning courses are fully accessible for students of all abilities, including that: (A) All courses submitted for approval are reviewed to ensure the courses meet legal accessibility standards; (B) The provider has created and promulgated an accessibility online learning policy; (C) The provider has an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Section 504 coordinator, a grievance policy, and annual notifications; (D) The provider has policies and activities to ensure its organizational and course websites meet accessibility requirements; and (E) The provider has no examination or test where a specific score is required to participate in course access program courses beyond completion of prerequisite coursework or demonstrated mastery of prerequisite material;
(A) All courses submitted for approval are reviewed to ensure the courses meet legal accessibility standards;
(B) The provider has created and promulgated an accessibility online learning policy;
(C) The provider has an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Section 504 coordinator, a grievance policy, and annual notifications;
(D) The provider has policies and activities to ensure its organizational and course websites meet accessibility requirements; and
(E) The provider has no examination or test where a specific score is required to participate in course access program courses beyond completion of prerequisite coursework or demonstrated mastery of prerequisite material;
(5) Demonstrate financial viability;
(6) Provide an assurance that the provider will electronically provide, in compliance with guidelines set by the department, a detailed student record of enrollment, performance, course completion, and course grading information to the participating student's home LEA;
(7) Comply with applicable virtual learning requirements established in chapter 16 of this title, if offering virtual learning courses;
(8) Comply with class size requirements established in § 49-1-104 and instructional and planning time requirements established by the state board; and
(9) Ensure each teacher of a course access program course is licensed to teach in this state and meets the qualifications to teach in compliance with the rules of the state board.
(b) The state board or department may exclude a course provider at any time if the state board or department finds that a provider has failed to comply with this chapter, the rules of the state board, or the procedures of the department.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 929, s 5, eff. 7/1/2022.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784, s 8, eff. 4/20/2018.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 889, s 6, eff. 4/27/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3108 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3108
Attendance in adjoining states
Status: in_force

Boards of education located in counties that are adjacent to other states may contract with the appropriate local or state officials in the adjoining state for the education of children in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12); provided, that the board of education of the Tennessee school district and the commissioner of education determine that such an arrangement is the most economical way of providing a reasonable education for children under the jurisdiction of such boards. The contract shall be executed by the appropriate board of education and approved by the commissioner and the attorney general and reporter prior to the enrollment of the children in the schools of the other state. The cost of educating the children in accordance with the terms of such contracts shall constitute a part of the costs of the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA) of the respective school district. Any local board of education entering such contract shall be relieved of all liability for the subject children during the term of the contract. The contract may be renewed annually at the discretion of the board. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 60, eff. 7/1/2023. Acts 1957, ch. 90, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, § 112; T.C.A., § 49-1764; Acts 1987, ch. 286, § 1; 1988, ch. 498, § 1.
Boards of education located in counties that are adjacent to other states may contract with the appropriate local or state officials in the adjoining state for the education of children in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12); provided, that the board of education of the Tennessee school district and the commissioner of education determine that such an arrangement is the most economical way of providing a reasonable education for children under the jurisdiction of such boards. The contract shall be executed by the appropriate board of education and approved by the commissioner and the attorney general and reporter prior to the enrollment of the children in the schools of the other state. The cost of educating the children in accordance with the terms of such contracts shall constitute a part of the costs of the Tennessee investment in student achievement formula (TISA) of the respective school district. Any local board of education entering such contract shall be relieved of all liability for the subject children during the term of the contract. The contract may be renewed annually at the discretion of the board.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 60, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 1957, ch. 90, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, § 112; T.C.A., § 49-1764; Acts 1987, ch. 286, § 1; 1988, ch. 498, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-303 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-303
Contracts for operation
Status: in_force

(a) The local boards of education participating in the operation of a career and technical education center are authorized to enter into contracts for the establishment, operation and maintenance of career and technical education centers. (b) Contractual arrangements entered into in establishing a career and technical education center shall be for a period of no less than five (5) years nor more than ten (10) years, in order to guarantee efficient operation and continuity, and shall first be approved by the county legislative body or city governing body of each county and city participating in the establishment, operation and maintenance of the school. Acts 1947, ch. 98, §§ 4, 6; C. Supp. 1950, §§ 2483.14, 2483.16 (Williams, §§ 2483.8, 2483.10); Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 126; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-2603, 49-2606.
(a) The local boards of education participating in the operation of a career and technical education center are authorized to enter into contracts for the establishment, operation and maintenance of career and technical education centers.
(b) Contractual arrangements entered into in establishing a career and technical education center shall be for a period of no less than five (5) years nor more than ten (10) years, in order to guarantee efficient operation and continuity, and shall first be approved by the county legislative body or city governing body of each county and city participating in the establishment, operation and maintenance of the school.
Acts 1947, ch. 98, §§ 4, 6; C. Supp. 1950, §§ 2483.14, 2483.16 (Williams, §§ 2483.8, 2483.10); Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 126; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 49-2603, 49-2606.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-16-211 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 16 / Section 49-16-211
Enrollment
Status: in_force

(a) Any student who is eligible for enrollment in a public school in this state may enroll in a virtual school as either a full-time virtual school student or as a part-time virtual school student taking some of the student's courses through the virtual school. An LEA is authorized to charge tuition to any person not enrolled in a public school within the LEA for attendance in an LEA established virtual school. (b) Initial enrollment in a public virtual school shall be limited to one thousand five hundred (1,500) students; however, any public virtual school in operation as of January 1, 2013, may continue to serve the number of students enrolled in the school as of May 14, 2013. If a public virtual school demonstrates student achievement growth at a minimum level of "at expectations" as represented by the Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) developed pursuant to chapter 1, part 6 of this title and guidelines adopted by the state board of education pursuant to chapter 1, part 3 of this title the school may exceed the enrollment cap. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 404, s 1, eff. 5/14/2013. Acts 2011 , ch. 492, § 1.
(a) Any student who is eligible for enrollment in a public school in this state may enroll in a virtual school as either a full-time virtual school student or as a part-time virtual school student taking some of the student's courses through the virtual school. An LEA is authorized to charge tuition to any person not enrolled in a public school within the LEA for attendance in an LEA established virtual school.
(b) Initial enrollment in a public virtual school shall be limited to one thousand five hundred (1,500) students; however, any public virtual school in operation as of January 1, 2013, may continue to serve the number of students enrolled in the school as of May 14, 2013. If a public virtual school demonstrates student achievement growth at a minimum level of "at expectations" as represented by the Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) developed pursuant to chapter 1, part 6 of this title and guidelines adopted by the state board of education pursuant to chapter 1, part 3 of this title the school may exceed the enrollment cap.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 404, s 1, eff. 5/14/2013.
Acts 2011 , ch. 492, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-107 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-107
Certificate of authority
Status: in_force

(a) (1) No corporation shall commence or continue operation in this state or advertise any plan subject to regulation under this part prior to the issuance to it of a certificate of authority by the commissioner. (2) Applications for a certificate of authority shall be made on forms prescribed by the commissioner and shall contain such information as the commissioner deems necessary to determine compliance with this part and regulations adopted pursuant to this part. (b) (1) Applications shall be accompanied by such supplemental data as the commissioner requires, including, but not limited to: (A) A charter certified by the secretary of state, together with all amendments to the charter as of the date of the certification; (B) The bylaws of the corporation; (C) The proposed plan or plans for payment of scholarships; (D) Copies of membership certificates, applications and other documents to be used in connection with the operation and administration of the plan; (E) A financial statement of the corporation; and (F) The names and addresses of officers and directors of the corporation. (2) All such data shall be submitted under oath, to be prescribed by the commissioner, taken and subscribed by two (2) officers of the corporation that the facts are true and that documents submitted are truly representative and in use or to be put in use. Proposed changes in the charter, bylaws or forms used, including contracts with educational institutions, shall be submitted to the commissioner for the commissioner's approval at least ten (10) days before the proposed change or use. (c) The commissioner shall issue a certificate of authority to each qualified applicant if the commissioner finds that: (1) The applicant has been organized bona fide for the purpose of establishing, maintaining and operating a nonprofit plan in accordance with regulations promulgated by the commissioner; (2) The plan is fair and reasonable and actuarially capable of providing all or a substantial portion of the educational scholarship needs of members in accordance with representations contained in the plan; (3) The operation of the plan complies with § 49-4-108 and regulations of the commissioner respecting the security of scholarship funds; and (4) The applicant has paid a filing fee of ten dollars ($10.00), which fee shall be deposited in the general revenue fund unallocated. Acts 1968, ch. 589, § 6; T.C.A., § 49-4506.
(a) (1) No corporation shall commence or continue operation in this state or advertise any plan subject to regulation under this part prior to the issuance to it of a certificate of authority by the commissioner. (2) Applications for a certificate of authority shall be made on forms prescribed by the commissioner and shall contain such information as the commissioner deems necessary to determine compliance with this part and regulations adopted pursuant to this part.
(1) No corporation shall commence or continue operation in this state or advertise any plan subject to regulation under this part prior to the issuance to it of a certificate of authority by the commissioner.
(2) Applications for a certificate of authority shall be made on forms prescribed by the commissioner and shall contain such information as the commissioner deems necessary to determine compliance with this part and regulations adopted pursuant to this part.
(b) (1) Applications shall be accompanied by such supplemental data as the commissioner requires, including, but not limited to: (A) A charter certified by the secretary of state, together with all amendments to the charter as of the date of the certification; (B) The bylaws of the corporation; (C) The proposed plan or plans for payment of scholarships; (D) Copies of membership certificates, applications and other documents to be used in connection with the operation and administration of the plan; (E) A financial statement of the corporation; and (F) The names and addresses of officers and directors of the corporation. (2) All such data shall be submitted under oath, to be prescribed by the commissioner, taken and subscribed by two (2) officers of the corporation that the facts are true and that documents submitted are truly representative and in use or to be put in use. Proposed changes in the charter, bylaws or forms used, including contracts with educational institutions, shall be submitted to the commissioner for the commissioner's approval at least ten (10) days before the proposed change or use.
(1) Applications shall be accompanied by such supplemental data as the commissioner requires, including, but not limited to: (A) A charter certified by the secretary of state, together with all amendments to the charter as of the date of the certification; (B) The bylaws of the corporation; (C) The proposed plan or plans for payment of scholarships; (D) Copies of membership certificates, applications and other documents to be used in connection with the operation and administration of the plan; (E) A financial statement of the corporation; and (F) The names and addresses of officers and directors of the corporation.
(A) A charter certified by the secretary of state, together with all amendments to the charter as of the date of the certification;
(B) The bylaws of the corporation;
(C) The proposed plan or plans for payment of scholarships;
(D) Copies of membership certificates, applications and other documents to be used in connection with the operation and administration of the plan;
(E) A financial statement of the corporation; and
(F) The names and addresses of officers and directors of the corporation.
(2) All such data shall be submitted under oath, to be prescribed by the commissioner, taken and subscribed by two (2) officers of the corporation that the facts are true and that documents submitted are truly representative and in use or to be put in use. Proposed changes in the charter, bylaws or forms used, including contracts with educational institutions, shall be submitted to the commissioner for the commissioner's approval at least ten (10) days before the proposed change or use.
(c) The commissioner shall issue a certificate of authority to each qualified applicant if the commissioner finds that: (1) The applicant has been organized bona fide for the purpose of establishing, maintaining and operating a nonprofit plan in accordance with regulations promulgated by the commissioner; (2) The plan is fair and reasonable and actuarially capable of providing all or a substantial portion of the educational scholarship needs of members in accordance with representations contained in the plan; (3) The operation of the plan complies with § 49-4-108 and regulations of the commissioner respecting the security of scholarship funds; and (4) The applicant has paid a filing fee of ten dollars ($10.00), which fee shall be deposited in the general revenue fund unallocated.
(1) The applicant has been organized bona fide for the purpose of establishing, maintaining and operating a nonprofit plan in accordance with regulations promulgated by the commissioner;
(2) The plan is fair and reasonable and actuarially capable of providing all or a substantial portion of the educational scholarship needs of members in accordance with representations contained in the plan;
(3) The operation of the plan complies with § 49-4-108 and regulations of the commissioner respecting the security of scholarship funds; and
(4) The applicant has paid a filing fee of ten dollars ($10.00), which fee shall be deposited in the general revenue fund unallocated.
Acts 1968, ch. 589, § 6; T.C.A., § 49-4506.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-201 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-201
Creation
Status: in_force

There is created a nonprofit corporation, which shall be known as the Tennessee student assistance corporation, to administer student assistance programs authorized by law, which corporation shall be registered with the secretary of state, and shall be subject to the corporate laws of this state, except as provided in parts 2, 3, and 6-9 of this chapter. Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 794, s 8, eff. 8/1/2020. Acts 1974, ch. 620, § 1; 1976, ch. 415, § 9; T.C.A., §§ 49-5001, 49-50-101.
There is created a nonprofit corporation, which shall be known as the Tennessee student assistance corporation, to administer student assistance programs authorized by law, which corporation shall be registered with the secretary of state, and shall be subject to the corporate laws of this state, except as provided in parts 2, 3, and 6-9 of this chapter.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 794, s 8, eff. 8/1/2020.
Acts 1974, ch. 620, § 1; 1976, ch. 415, § 9; T.C.A., §§ 49-5001, 49-50-101.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-1256 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-1256
Multi-county consolidated school systems - Director
Status: in_force

(a) Any plan of consolidation shall provide that the consolidated board of education is authorized to designate a person experienced in public school management and supervision and possessing a license of qualification issued by the state board of education pursuant to § 49-2-301 as the chief administrative employee of the board, and to enter into an employment contract with that person for a period not to exceed five (5) years and for compensation to be determined in the contract. (b) The person so employed shall be designated director of consolidated schools. (c) The board is authorized to assign to the director duties and responsibilities that are necessarily, usually or properly assigned to a county director of schools. Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 67.
(a) Any plan of consolidation shall provide that the consolidated board of education is authorized to designate a person experienced in public school management and supervision and possessing a license of qualification issued by the state board of education pursuant to § 49-2-301 as the chief administrative employee of the board, and to enter into an employment contract with that person for a period not to exceed five (5) years and for compensation to be determined in the contract.
(b) The person so employed shall be designated director of consolidated schools.
(c) The board is authorized to assign to the director duties and responsibilities that are necessarily, usually or properly assigned to a county director of schools.
Acts 1992, ch. 535, § 67.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-613 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-613
Confidentiality of records
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful, except for purposes directly connected with the administration of the vocational rehabilitation program and in accordance with regulations, for any person or persons to solicit, disclose, receive or make use of, or authorize, knowingly permit, participate in, or acquiesce in the use of any list of or names of, or any information concerning, persons applying for or receiving vocational rehabilitation, directly or indirectly derived from the records, papers, files or communications of the state or subdivisions or agencies of the state or acquired in the course of the performance of official duties. (b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1947, ch. 93, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 2483.9 (Williams, § 2483.19); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-2814; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is unlawful, except for purposes directly connected with the administration of the vocational rehabilitation program and in accordance with regulations, for any person or persons to solicit, disclose, receive or make use of, or authorize, knowingly permit, participate in, or acquiesce in the use of any list of or names of, or any information concerning, persons applying for or receiving vocational rehabilitation, directly or indirectly derived from the records, papers, files or communications of the state or subdivisions or agencies of the state or acquired in the course of the performance of official duties.
(b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1947, ch. 93, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 2483.9 (Williams, § 2483.19); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-2814; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3802 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3802
Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Library collection" means the materials made available to students by a school operated by an LEA or by a public charter school, but does not include materials made available to students as part of a course curriculum; and (2) "Materials" means books, periodicals, newspapers, manuscripts, films, prints, documents, microfilm, discs, cassettes, videotapes, videogames, applications, and subscription content in any form. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 744, s 1, eff. 3/24/2022.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Library collection" means the materials made available to students by a school operated by an LEA or by a public charter school, but does not include materials made available to students as part of a course curriculum; and
(2) "Materials" means books, periodicals, newspapers, manuscripts, films, prints, documents, microfilm, discs, cassettes, videotapes, videogames, applications, and subscription content in any form.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 744, s 1, eff. 3/24/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-4502 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-4502
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Cyber-bullying" means bullying undertaken through the use of electronic devices; (2) "Electronic devices" include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging, and websites; (3) "Harassment, intimidation or bullying" means any act that substantially interferes with a student's educational benefits, opportunities or performance; and: (A) If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of: (i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property; (ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property; (iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or (iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or (B) If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process. Acts 2005, ch. 202, § 1; 2011, ch. 251, §§ 1, 3; T.C.A. § 49-6-4502 ; T.C.A. § 45-6-1015.
As used in this part:
(1) "Cyber-bullying" means bullying undertaken through the use of electronic devices;
(2) "Electronic devices" include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging, and websites;
(3) "Harassment, intimidation or bullying" means any act that substantially interferes with a student's educational benefits, opportunities or performance; and: (A) If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of: (i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property; (ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property; (iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or (iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or (B) If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process.
(A) If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of: (i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property; (ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property; (iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or (iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or
(i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property;
(ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property;
(iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or
(iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or
(B) If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process.
Acts 2005, ch. 202, § 1; 2011, ch. 251, §§ 1, 3; T.C.A. § 49-6-4502 ; T.C.A. § 45-6-1015.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1402 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1402
Program components
Status: in_force

The department of health, with the assistance of the department of education, shall provide a framework for LEAs to use in developing a program that shall include, but not be limited to: (1) Providing standard practices for maintaining confidentiality; (2) Providing necessary information to LEAs annually, explaining the method for determining a BMI-for-age and the tables that should be used to determine if a child may be at risk of being overweight, or if the child is overweight or underweight based upon the BMI-for-age. (3) Developing and disseminating to LEAs annually a form that should be used to report the student results from individual schools and from the LEA to the department of health; (4) Developing and disseminating a sample notification to all LEAs that can be used as the model for the health report card to notify parents or guardians of the child's BMI results, along with basic educational information on what the results mean, the applicable health risks for a child who is overweight and what the parents or guardians should do with the information; and (5) Working with representatives from the department of education, state health professional associations and national health related organizations in the design of the form and sample notification. Acts 2005, ch. 194, § 3.
The department of health, with the assistance of the department of education, shall provide a framework for LEAs to use in developing a program that shall include, but not be limited to:
(1) Providing standard practices for maintaining confidentiality;
(2) Providing necessary information to LEAs annually, explaining the method for determining a BMI-for-age and the tables that should be used to determine if a child may be at risk of being overweight, or if the child is overweight or underweight based upon the BMI-for-age.
(3) Developing and disseminating to LEAs annually a form that should be used to report the student results from individual schools and from the LEA to the department of health;
(4) Developing and disseminating a sample notification to all LEAs that can be used as the model for the health report card to notify parents or guardians of the child's BMI results, along with basic educational information on what the results mean, the applicable health risks for a child who is overweight and what the parents or guardians should do with the information; and
(5) Working with representatives from the department of education, state health professional associations and national health related organizations in the design of the form and sample notification.
Acts 2005, ch. 194, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-602 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-602
No limitation on right of enforcement by child's parent or guardian - No delay in provision of services
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter limits any right that any child or the child's parent or guardian may have to enforce the provision of any regular or special educational service. LEAs shall not delay the provision of education or related services to which a child is entitled. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 23, eff. 4/11/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-2948.
Nothing in this chapter limits any right that any child or the child's parent or guardian may have to enforce the provision of any regular or special educational service. LEAs shall not delay the provision of education or related services to which a child is entitled.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 23, eff. 4/11/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-2948.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3011 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3011
Disposition of fines
Status: in_force

All moneys collected as fines for violations of this part shall be placed in the public school fund of the local school system in which the child resides. Fines may be recovered by rule or in any way that a court of law enforces its orders or decrees. Acts 1947, ch. 87, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 2442.18; Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 101; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1725.
All moneys collected as fines for violations of this part shall be placed in the public school fund of the local school system in which the child resides. Fines may be recovered by rule or in any way that a court of law enforces its orders or decrees.
Acts 1947, ch. 87, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 2442.18; Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 101; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1725.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-609 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-609
Memorandum of understanding
Status: in_force

(a) The scope of a memorandum shall extend to those matters of mutual agreement between the board of education and the professional employees; provided, that its scope shall not include proposals contrary to: (1) Federal or state law or applicable municipal charter; (2) Professional employee rights defined in this part; or (3) Board of education rights contained in this title. (b) If agreement is reached by the management personnel of the board of education and the representatives of its professional employees, they shall jointly prepare a proposed memorandum of understanding. The board of education may enter into the memorandum for a period not to exceed three (3) years. Any items included within the memorandum that require funding shall not be considered effective until such time as the body empowered to appropriate the funds has approved a budget that includes sufficient funding. If the amount of funds appropriated is less than the amount required to address the matters of collaborative conferencing, then the parties may continue to confer to reach agreement within the amount of funds appropriated. (c) A memorandum of understanding shall be binding on the parties from the date of its approval by the board of education as an item on the agenda of a regular or special called board meeting or at a later effective date that is explicitly stated in the memorandum of understanding. (d) Nothing in this part shall be construed to require collaborative conferencing, agreement on any terms and conditions of employment, or, if agreement has not been reached between the board of education and the representatives of the professional employees, a memorandum of understanding. Absent an agreement and memorandum of understanding on terms and conditions specified for collaborative conferencing in this part, the board of education shall have the authority to address such terms and conditions through board policy. Acts 2011, ch. 378, § 1.
(a) The scope of a memorandum shall extend to those matters of mutual agreement between the board of education and the professional employees; provided, that its scope shall not include proposals contrary to: (1) Federal or state law or applicable municipal charter; (2) Professional employee rights defined in this part; or (3) Board of education rights contained in this title.
(1) Federal or state law or applicable municipal charter;
(2) Professional employee rights defined in this part; or
(3) Board of education rights contained in this title.
(b) If agreement is reached by the management personnel of the board of education and the representatives of its professional employees, they shall jointly prepare a proposed memorandum of understanding. The board of education may enter into the memorandum for a period not to exceed three (3) years. Any items included within the memorandum that require funding shall not be considered effective until such time as the body empowered to appropriate the funds has approved a budget that includes sufficient funding. If the amount of funds appropriated is less than the amount required to address the matters of collaborative conferencing, then the parties may continue to confer to reach agreement within the amount of funds appropriated.
(c) A memorandum of understanding shall be binding on the parties from the date of its approval by the board of education as an item on the agenda of a regular or special called board meeting or at a later effective date that is explicitly stated in the memorandum of understanding.
(d) Nothing in this part shall be construed to require collaborative conferencing, agreement on any terms and conditions of employment, or, if agreement has not been reached between the board of education and the representatives of the professional employees, a memorandum of understanding. Absent an agreement and memorandum of understanding on terms and conditions specified for collaborative conferencing in this part, the board of education shall have the authority to address such terms and conditions through board policy.
Acts 2011, ch. 378, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-2-135 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 2 / Section 49-2-135
Development of before or after school programs in collaboration with 501 (c)
Status: in_force

(a) LEAs are authorized to develop before or after school programs in collaboration with 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporations that may provide assistance in selecting and appointing qualified volunteers for the programs. (b) The programs authorized in subsection (a) must focus on kindergarten through grade three (K-3) before or after school activities designed to improve student achievement in the academic subjects of reading, math, science, social studies, and fine arts. (c) Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation recognized under this section must meet all applicable rules of the state board of education and the policies and procedures of the LEA in which the corporation's volunteers are assisting and ensure the volunteers undergo criminal history record checks and otherwise meet all of the requirements of § 49-5-413 . (d) An LEA must approve a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation to assist in the LEA's schools before the corporation's volunteers may begin assisting students in a school. (e) An LEA that develops a program in accordance with this section has the authority to remove the recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation or any of the corporation's volunteers from the program. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 16, eff. 5/2/2019.
(a) LEAs are authorized to develop before or after school programs in collaboration with 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporations that may provide assistance in selecting and appointing qualified volunteers for the programs.
(b) The programs authorized in subsection (a) must focus on kindergarten through grade three (K-3) before or after school activities designed to improve student achievement in the academic subjects of reading, math, science, social studies, and fine arts.
(c) Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation recognized under this section must meet all applicable rules of the state board of education and the policies and procedures of the LEA in which the corporation's volunteers are assisting and ensure the volunteers undergo criminal history record checks and otherwise meet all of the requirements of § 49-5-413 .
(d) An LEA must approve a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation to assist in the LEA's schools before the corporation's volunteers may begin assisting students in a school.
(e) An LEA that develops a program in accordance with this section has the authority to remove the recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation or any of the corporation's volunteers from the program.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248, s 16, eff. 5/2/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1202 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1202
State matching funds
Status: in_force

The state shall match the funds raised by each 4-H district up to one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) as money in the endowment fund becomes available through the general appropriations act or grants. No district may receive matching funds totaling more than one-sixth (1/6) of the amount of money in the endowment fund during any fiscal year. If at the end of a fiscal year there remains money in the fund, districts that have raised more than one-sixth (1/6) of the money available during that year shall be entitled to a pro rata match of the money remaining in the fund. The funds raised by the 4-H district, together with the state matching funds, shall be deposited in the endowment fund for each district created by this part. Acts 1994, ch. 1004, § 1.
The state shall match the funds raised by each 4-H district up to one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) as money in the endowment fund becomes available through the general appropriations act or grants. No district may receive matching funds totaling more than one-sixth (1/6) of the amount of money in the endowment fund during any fiscal year. If at the end of a fiscal year there remains money in the fund, districts that have raised more than one-sixth (1/6) of the money available during that year shall be entitled to a pro rata match of the money remaining in the fund. The funds raised by the 4-H district, together with the state matching funds, shall be deposited in the endowment fund for each district created by this part.
Acts 1994, ch. 1004, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2408 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2408
Adoption of holistic programs of positive behavior - School reports
Status: in_force

Community schools and communities of schools are encouraged to work with parents and community partners to adopt holistic programs of positive behavior reinforcement, such as the Ticket Program, that work with schools, parents, and the community to reinforce positive behavior at home and school and in all aspects of community life. Schools that adopt these programs are encouraged to report their successes and failures, if any, in implementing the program and the results of the program in changing student behavior and improving academic performance to the department for dissemination and possible replication in other schools throughout the state. School reports shall be accompanied by data supporting the results reported. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 770,s 1, eff. 4/19/2016.
Community schools and communities of schools are encouraged to work with parents and community partners to adopt holistic programs of positive behavior reinforcement, such as the Ticket Program, that work with schools, parents, and the community to reinforce positive behavior at home and school and in all aspects of community life. Schools that adopt these programs are encouraged to report their successes and failures, if any, in implementing the program and the results of the program in changing student behavior and improving academic performance to the department for dissemination and possible replication in other schools throughout the state. School reports shall be accompanied by data supporting the results reported.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 770,s 1, eff. 4/19/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-2023 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-2023
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1044, s 33, eff. 7/1/2022. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 868, s 5, eff. 10/1/2016.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1044, s 33, eff. 7/1/2022.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 868, s 5, eff. 10/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-7002 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-7002
Parent-teacher meetings
Status: in_force

(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Parent-Teacher Partnership Act of 1989." (b) It is the duty of the board of education of each school district to develop a program whereby parents or guardians and appropriate faculty members may meet at least two (2) times per school year to discuss any pertinent problems or other matters of concern regarding the development and education of each student who is enrolled in the school system. However, these meetings shall not occur during school hours of any day that is counted for purposes of meeting the one hundred eighty (180) days of classroom instruction required by § 49-6-3004 , nor shall the meetings be substituted for a day of classroom instruction; provided, that these restrictions on meetings shall not bar any LEA from scheduling the meetings at a time beyond the six and one-half (61/2) hour classroom instructional time or during any free time that a teacher might have available during the six and one-half (61/2) hours. (c) LEAs are urged to consider the work schedules and needs of working parents when scheduling parent-teacher meetings. Acts 1989, ch. 554, § 1; 2010 , ch. 762, § 1.
(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Parent-Teacher Partnership Act of 1989."
(b) It is the duty of the board of education of each school district to develop a program whereby parents or guardians and appropriate faculty members may meet at least two (2) times per school year to discuss any pertinent problems or other matters of concern regarding the development and education of each student who is enrolled in the school system. However, these meetings shall not occur during school hours of any day that is counted for purposes of meeting the one hundred eighty (180) days of classroom instruction required by § 49-6-3004 , nor shall the meetings be substituted for a day of classroom instruction; provided, that these restrictions on meetings shall not bar any LEA from scheduling the meetings at a time beyond the six and one-half (61/2) hour classroom instructional time or during any free time that a teacher might have available during the six and one-half (61/2) hours.
(c) LEAs are urged to consider the work schedules and needs of working parents when scheduling parent-teacher meetings.
Acts 1989, ch. 554, § 1; 2010 , ch. 762, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-1507 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-1507
Chief executive officer - Authority and responsibility - Employment of principals - Employment requirements for faculty
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this part, the director of schools for an innovative school district serves as the chief executive officer of the innovative school district and is responsible for overseeing the education, research, and evaluation, and other goals of the district. (b) The director of schools for an innovative school district shall employ a principal for each school in the district. Except as otherwise provided in this part, a school principal for a school in an innovative school district is authorized and required to perform the functions of a school principal for the principal's assigned school in the innovative school district, including, but not limited to, performing the duties assigned to the school principal by the director of schools and the duties required of a school principal in § 49-2-303 . A school principal for a school in an innovative school district must comply with all requirements for school principals established by law. (c) Faculty employed by the governing body for a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district may serve as educators at schools in the innovative school district while also serving as a full-time faculty member. (d) A faculty member of a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district who serves as an educator at one (1) or more schools in the innovative school district must meet the certification requirements of § 49-5-101 and is subject to evaluation pursuant to § 49-1-302(d)(2) . Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1053,s 1, eff. 5/28/2024, app. to the 2024-2025 school year and each school year thereafter.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this part, the director of schools for an innovative school district serves as the chief executive officer of the innovative school district and is responsible for overseeing the education, research, and evaluation, and other goals of the district.
(b) The director of schools for an innovative school district shall employ a principal for each school in the district. Except as otherwise provided in this part, a school principal for a school in an innovative school district is authorized and required to perform the functions of a school principal for the principal's assigned school in the innovative school district, including, but not limited to, performing the duties assigned to the school principal by the director of schools and the duties required of a school principal in § 49-2-303 . A school principal for a school in an innovative school district must comply with all requirements for school principals established by law.
(c) Faculty employed by the governing body for a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district may serve as educators at schools in the innovative school district while also serving as a full-time faculty member.
(d) A faculty member of a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district who serves as an educator at one (1) or more schools in the innovative school district must meet the certification requirements of § 49-5-101 and is subject to evaluation pursuant to § 49-1-302(d)(2) .
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1053,s 1, eff. 5/28/2024, app. to the 2024-2025 school year and each school year thereafter.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-702 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-702
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) [Deleted by 2024 amendment.] (2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of human services; (3) "Community-based vocational rehabilitation services" means vocational rehabilitation services provided by the vocational rehabilitation program in partnership with the local community as authorized under this part; (4) "Department" means the department of human services; (5) "Director" means director of the vocational rehabilitation program; (6) "Division" means the division of rehabilitation services; and (7) "Rehabilitation center" or "center" means a rehabilitation center authorized under this part. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 558,s 2, eff. 7/1/2024. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 720, s 3, eff. 4/12/2018. Acts 1965, ch. 332, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-2816; Acts 1989, ch. 4, §§ 3, 4; 2001, ch. 174, § 5.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) [Deleted by 2024 amendment.]
(2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of human services;
(3) "Community-based vocational rehabilitation services" means vocational rehabilitation services provided by the vocational rehabilitation program in partnership with the local community as authorized under this part;
(4) "Department" means the department of human services;
(5) "Director" means director of the vocational rehabilitation program;
(6) "Division" means the division of rehabilitation services; and
(7) "Rehabilitation center" or "center" means a rehabilitation center authorized under this part.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 558,s 2, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 720, s 3, eff. 4/12/2018.
Acts 1965, ch. 332, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-2816; Acts 1989, ch. 4, §§ 3, 4; 2001, ch. 174, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-803 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-803
Grants to students at certain colleges and universities
Status: in_force

The state shall grant an amount as provided in this part to Tennessee resident students enrolled at independent, nonprofit colleges and universities accredited by the College Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and, to the extent feasible within existing budgetary resources of the Tennessee student assistance corporation, to Tennessee resident students enrolled at eligible independent postsecondary institutions, as defined in § 49-4-902(11)(C) . Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1018, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022. Acts 1993, ch. 486, § 4.
The state shall grant an amount as provided in this part to Tennessee resident students enrolled at independent, nonprofit colleges and universities accredited by the College Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and, to the extent feasible within existing budgetary resources of the Tennessee student assistance corporation, to Tennessee resident students enrolled at eligible independent postsecondary institutions, as defined in § 49-4-902(11)(C) .
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1018, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
Acts 1993, ch. 486, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-367 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-367
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023. Acts 2008 , ch. 938, § 1.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 2008 , ch. 938, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2501 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2501
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "National Motto in the Classroom Act." Acts 2018, ch. 640, § 1.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "National Motto in the Classroom Act."
Acts 2018, ch. 640, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-219 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-219
Advisory guidelines for reporting DUI-related deaths of minors
Status: in_force

The commissioner of education, in consultation with the commissioner of safety, shall develop advisory guidelines for LEAs to use in developing an annual report to inform high school students of any death of a person eighteen (18) years of age or younger that resulted from a motor vehicle accident in which a driver eighteen (18) years of age or younger was driving under the influence of an intoxicant or drug. The guidelines shall emphasize consultation at the local level with appropriate authorities. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 58, s 2, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 2006, ch. 634, § 2.
The commissioner of education, in consultation with the commissioner of safety, shall develop advisory guidelines for LEAs to use in developing an annual report to inform high school students of any death of a person eighteen (18) years of age or younger that resulted from a motor vehicle accident in which a driver eighteen (18) years of age or younger was driving under the influence of an intoxicant or drug. The guidelines shall emphasize consultation at the local level with appropriate authorities.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 58, s 2, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 2006, ch. 634, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-302 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-302
School counselors and school teachers
Status: in_force

(a) A school counselor or school teacher is responsible solely for providing counseling and guidance to students at the school or schools at which the counselor is employed. If a counselor is employed as such on a less than full-time basis, those hours devoted to guidance and counseling shall be specified and adhered to closely. A school counselor is not responsible for general school administration or reports, except such reports as may be connected with the school's guidance program. (b) Counseling and guidance include, but are not limited to: (1) Counseling on academic problems or decisions; (2) Counseling on social or peer-group pressure problems; (3) Career counseling and guidance; (4) Guidance on socialization and group interaction; (5) Motivational guidance; (6) Behavioral guidance; and (7) Counseling on personal problems. Acts 1984 (1st E.S.), ch. 1, § 1; 1999, ch. 367, § 1.
(a) A school counselor or school teacher is responsible solely for providing counseling and guidance to students at the school or schools at which the counselor is employed. If a counselor is employed as such on a less than full-time basis, those hours devoted to guidance and counseling shall be specified and adhered to closely. A school counselor is not responsible for general school administration or reports, except such reports as may be connected with the school's guidance program.
(b) Counseling and guidance include, but are not limited to: (1) Counseling on academic problems or decisions; (2) Counseling on social or peer-group pressure problems; (3) Career counseling and guidance; (4) Guidance on socialization and group interaction; (5) Motivational guidance; (6) Behavioral guidance; and (7) Counseling on personal problems.
(1) Counseling on academic problems or decisions;
(2) Counseling on social or peer-group pressure problems;
(3) Career counseling and guidance;
(4) Guidance on socialization and group interaction;
(5) Motivational guidance;
(6) Behavioral guidance; and
(7) Counseling on personal problems.
Acts 1984 (1st E.S.), ch. 1, § 1; 1999, ch. 367, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-18-110 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 18 / Section 49-18-110
Notice given by home LEA - Credits - Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) Home LEAs shall: (1) Provide written notice to students and parents on the availability of courses and the timeline for students to enroll; and (2) Publish information and eligibility guidelines on the home LEA's website. (b) Each home LEA shall establish policies and procedures to ensure that credits earned through the course provider shall appear on the participating student's official transcript and shall count towards the requirements of any approval of a high school diploma awarded by a home LEA. (c) Nothing in this chapter shall prevent an LEA from establishing its own online program or supplemental course offerings or require an LEA to revise an existing program. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784,Secs.s16, s17, s18, s19, s20 eff. 4/20/2018. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 889,s 11, eff. 4/27/2016.
(a) Home LEAs shall: (1) Provide written notice to students and parents on the availability of courses and the timeline for students to enroll; and (2) Publish information and eligibility guidelines on the home LEA's website.
(1) Provide written notice to students and parents on the availability of courses and the timeline for students to enroll; and
(2) Publish information and eligibility guidelines on the home LEA's website.
(b) Each home LEA shall establish policies and procedures to ensure that credits earned through the course provider shall appear on the participating student's official transcript and shall count towards the requirements of any approval of a high school diploma awarded by a home LEA.
(c) Nothing in this chapter shall prevent an LEA from establishing its own online program or supplemental course offerings or require an LEA to revise an existing program.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784,Secs.s16, s17, s18, s19, s20 eff. 4/20/2018.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 889,s 11, eff. 4/27/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1410 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1410
Feasibility study of statewide comprehensive energy policy
Status: in_force

(a) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee is directed to perform a study on the economic feasibility of creating and utilizing a statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall examine the state's current and future energy supply and demand needs, existing energy policies, and emerging energy challenges and opportunities. The objectives of the study shall include, but not be limited to the following: (1) Increasing the exploration and use of in-state or domestic energy resources; (2) Promoting job growth, energy production, energy use, and energy conservation in the state; (3) Ensuring reliable, low-cost environmentally responsible energy supply; (4) Gaining competitive advantages for Tennessee businesses and consumers in light of rising energy costs; and (5) Positioning the state as a leader in the United States and world energy markets. (b) The study shall focus on incentives and policies that the state may utilize to promote and enhance the most cost efficient and effective statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall include legislative and executive policy recommendations. (c) All appropriate state departments and agencies are encouraged to provide assistance for the study. (d) State funds in the amount of forty thousand dollars ($40,000) shall be made available to support the feasibility study. The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy is authorized to establish public and private partnerships for the study. Any funds made available from private, county, municipal or federal appropriations shall be used to match state appropriations. (e) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy shall report its preliminary findings to the energy task force of the house of representatives no later than October 15, 2014. A final report shall be provided to the energy task force no later than December 15, 2014. (f) The Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research (SBBER) at the University of Memphis shall work in partnership with the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee in the creation of the statewide comprehensive energy policy pursuant to subsection (a). Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 913,s 1, eff. 5/13/2014.
(a) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee is directed to perform a study on the economic feasibility of creating and utilizing a statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall examine the state's current and future energy supply and demand needs, existing energy policies, and emerging energy challenges and opportunities. The objectives of the study shall include, but not be limited to the following: (1) Increasing the exploration and use of in-state or domestic energy resources; (2) Promoting job growth, energy production, energy use, and energy conservation in the state; (3) Ensuring reliable, low-cost environmentally responsible energy supply; (4) Gaining competitive advantages for Tennessee businesses and consumers in light of rising energy costs; and (5) Positioning the state as a leader in the United States and world energy markets.
(1) Increasing the exploration and use of in-state or domestic energy resources;
(2) Promoting job growth, energy production, energy use, and energy conservation in the state;
(3) Ensuring reliable, low-cost environmentally responsible energy supply;
(4) Gaining competitive advantages for Tennessee businesses and consumers in light of rising energy costs; and
(5) Positioning the state as a leader in the United States and world energy markets.
(b) The study shall focus on incentives and policies that the state may utilize to promote and enhance the most cost efficient and effective statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall include legislative and executive policy recommendations.
(c) All appropriate state departments and agencies are encouraged to provide assistance for the study.
(d) State funds in the amount of forty thousand dollars ($40,000) shall be made available to support the feasibility study. The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy is authorized to establish public and private partnerships for the study. Any funds made available from private, county, municipal or federal appropriations shall be used to match state appropriations.
(e) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy shall report its preliminary findings to the energy task force of the house of representatives no later than October 15, 2014. A final report shall be provided to the energy task force no later than December 15, 2014.
(f) The Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research (SBBER) at the University of Memphis shall work in partnership with the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee in the creation of the statewide comprehensive energy policy pursuant to subsection (a).
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 913,s 1, eff. 5/13/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-909 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-909
Exemption of benefits from process - Nonassignability
Status: in_force

All annuities granted and payable out of the teachers' retirement fund shall be and are exempt from seizure or levy upon attachment, execution, supplemental process and all other process, whether mesne or final. The annuities or any payment of the annuities shall not be subject to sale, assignment or transfer by any beneficiary, and such transfer shall be absolutely void. Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 8; Shan., § 1469b8 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a8; Code 1932, § 2532; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1609.
All annuities granted and payable out of the teachers' retirement fund shall be and are exempt from seizure or levy upon attachment, execution, supplemental process and all other process, whether mesne or final. The annuities or any payment of the annuities shall not be subject to sale, assignment or transfer by any beneficiary, and such transfer shall be absolutely void.
Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 8; Shan., § 1469b8 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a8; Code 1932, § 2532; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1609.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-318 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-318
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 493, s 38, eff. 5/25/2021. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 89, eff. 5/10/2019. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204, Secs.s 4, s 5, s 6, s 7, s 8 eff. 4/25/2019. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, Secs.s 29, s 30 eff. 4/17/2015. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 473, s 12, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 15; 1983, ch. 181, § 13; T.C.A., § 49-617; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3; 2001, ch. 284, § 12; 2008 , ch. 867, §§ 1, 2.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 966, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 493, s 38, eff. 5/25/2021.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 89, eff. 5/10/2019.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204, Secs.s 4, s 5, s 6, s 7, s 8 eff. 4/25/2019.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, Secs.s 29, s 30 eff. 4/17/2015.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 473, s 12, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1977, ch. 289, § 15; 1983, ch. 181, § 13; T.C.A., § 49-617; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3; 2001, ch. 284, § 12; 2008 , ch. 867, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-404 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-404
Contracts with local boards
Status: in_force

(a) The board of regents is authorized to enter into any contract or contracts that the state board of regents may deem necessary for the operation of state colleges of applied technology in order to carry out the provisions and purposes of this part with any: (1) Local board or boards of education; (2) County or counties, or municipality or municipalities; (3) Other public or private body, board, foundation or agency; (4) Individual or group of individuals; or (5) Sheriff's department or other official or department charged with oversight of a county jail, lock-up, or workhouse for the purpose of developing reentry programs to effectively reduce the recidivism rate of criminal offenders and increase the likelihood of successful reintegration into society following release of individuals from incarceration. (b) The board of regents is also authorized, within its discretion, to locate, establish, control and operate directly, any state college of applied technology under this part. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 410, s 21, eff. 5/12/2021. Acts 1963, ch. 229, § 4; 1974, ch. 654, § 131; 1983, ch. 181, §§ 5, 6, 8; T.C.A., § 49-2612; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3.
(a) The board of regents is authorized to enter into any contract or contracts that the state board of regents may deem necessary for the operation of state colleges of applied technology in order to carry out the provisions and purposes of this part with any: (1) Local board or boards of education; (2) County or counties, or municipality or municipalities; (3) Other public or private body, board, foundation or agency; (4) Individual or group of individuals; or (5) Sheriff's department or other official or department charged with oversight of a county jail, lock-up, or workhouse for the purpose of developing reentry programs to effectively reduce the recidivism rate of criminal offenders and increase the likelihood of successful reintegration into society following release of individuals from incarceration.
(1) Local board or boards of education;
(2) County or counties, or municipality or municipalities;
(3) Other public or private body, board, foundation or agency;
(4) Individual or group of individuals; or
(5) Sheriff's department or other official or department charged with oversight of a county jail, lock-up, or workhouse for the purpose of developing reentry programs to effectively reduce the recidivism rate of criminal offenders and increase the likelihood of successful reintegration into society following release of individuals from incarceration.
(b) The board of regents is also authorized, within its discretion, to locate, establish, control and operate directly, any state college of applied technology under this part.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 410, s 21, eff. 5/12/2021.
Acts 1963, ch. 229, § 4; 1974, ch. 654, § 131; 1983, ch. 181, §§ 5, 6, 8; T.C.A., § 49-2612; Acts 1994, ch. 685, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-13-119 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 13 / Section 49-13-119
Eligibility to participate in group insurance plans
Status: in_force

Teachers, as defined in § 8-34-101 , and other full-time permanent employees of a public charter school, including a public charter school authorized by the achievement school district or the commission, are eligible to participate in the group insurance plans selected by the governing body of the public charter school. Public charter schools, including public charter schools authorized by the achievement school district or the commission, are entitled to participate in the state group insurance plans selected by the governing body of the public charter school in accordance with § 8-27-303 . Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 4/28/2021. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 65, eff. 4/26/2019. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 346, s 1, eff. 5/4/2015. Acts 2002, ch. 850, §19; 2011 , ch. 507, § 10.
Teachers, as defined in § 8-34-101 , and other full-time permanent employees of a public charter school, including a public charter school authorized by the achievement school district or the commission, are eligible to participate in the group insurance plans selected by the governing body of the public charter school. Public charter schools, including public charter schools authorized by the achievement school district or the commission, are entitled to participate in the state group insurance plans selected by the governing body of the public charter school in accordance with § 8-27-303 .
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 1, eff. 4/28/2021.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 65, eff. 4/26/2019.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 346, s 1, eff. 5/4/2015.
Acts 2002, ch. 850, §19; 2011 , ch. 507, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-171 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-171
Homeless-student liaison - Plan to provide students access to housing resources
Status: in_force

(a) A degree-granting postsecondary educational institution, as defined in § 49-7-2003 , that has a campus in this state shall: (1) Designate a staff member who is employed in the financial aid office, or another appropriate office or department as determined by the institution, to serve as a homeless-student liaison. The homeless-student liaison is responsible for understanding the provisions pertaining to financial aid eligibility of homeless students, including eligibility as independent students under the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. § 1087vv ), and identifying services available and appropriate for students enrolled at the institution who fall under these categories. The homeless-student liaison shall assist homeless students who are enrolled in the institution in applying for and receiving federal and state financial aid and available services; and (2) If the institution offers housing resources, develop a plan to provide homeless students who are enrolled in the institution access to housing resources during and between academic terms. The plan must include granting homeless students first priority in housing placement and placing those students in housing facilities that remain open for occupation for the most days in a calendar year. (b) As used in this section, "homeless student" means a student under twenty-five (25) years of age who has been verified as a homeless child or youth, as defined in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. § 11434a(2) ), at any time during the twenty-four (24) months immediately preceding the student's enrollment in, or at any time while enrolled in, a degree-granting postsecondary educational institution by: (1) A director or designee of a governmental or nonprofit agency that receives public or private funding to provide services to homeless persons; (2) An LEA liaison for homeless children and youth designated pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii) , or a school social worker or counselor; (3) The director of a federal TRIO or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs program, or a designee of the director; or (4) A financial aid administrator for a degree-granting postsecondary educational institution. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 266, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019.
(a) A degree-granting postsecondary educational institution, as defined in § 49-7-2003 , that has a campus in this state shall: (1) Designate a staff member who is employed in the financial aid office, or another appropriate office or department as determined by the institution, to serve as a homeless-student liaison. The homeless-student liaison is responsible for understanding the provisions pertaining to financial aid eligibility of homeless students, including eligibility as independent students under the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. § 1087vv ), and identifying services available and appropriate for students enrolled at the institution who fall under these categories. The homeless-student liaison shall assist homeless students who are enrolled in the institution in applying for and receiving federal and state financial aid and available services; and (2) If the institution offers housing resources, develop a plan to provide homeless students who are enrolled in the institution access to housing resources during and between academic terms. The plan must include granting homeless students first priority in housing placement and placing those students in housing facilities that remain open for occupation for the most days in a calendar year.
(1) Designate a staff member who is employed in the financial aid office, or another appropriate office or department as determined by the institution, to serve as a homeless-student liaison. The homeless-student liaison is responsible for understanding the provisions pertaining to financial aid eligibility of homeless students, including eligibility as independent students under the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. § 1087vv ), and identifying services available and appropriate for students enrolled at the institution who fall under these categories. The homeless-student liaison shall assist homeless students who are enrolled in the institution in applying for and receiving federal and state financial aid and available services; and
(2) If the institution offers housing resources, develop a plan to provide homeless students who are enrolled in the institution access to housing resources during and between academic terms. The plan must include granting homeless students first priority in housing placement and placing those students in housing facilities that remain open for occupation for the most days in a calendar year.
(b) As used in this section, "homeless student" means a student under twenty-five (25) years of age who has been verified as a homeless child or youth, as defined in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. § 11434a(2) ), at any time during the twenty-four (24) months immediately preceding the student's enrollment in, or at any time while enrolled in, a degree-granting postsecondary educational institution by: (1) A director or designee of a governmental or nonprofit agency that receives public or private funding to provide services to homeless persons; (2) An LEA liaison for homeless children and youth designated pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii) , or a school social worker or counselor; (3) The director of a federal TRIO or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs program, or a designee of the director; or (4) A financial aid administrator for a degree-granting postsecondary educational institution.
(1) A director or designee of a governmental or nonprofit agency that receives public or private funding to provide services to homeless persons;
(2) An LEA liaison for homeless children and youth designated pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii) , or a school social worker or counselor;
(3) The director of a federal TRIO or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs program, or a designee of the director; or
(4) A financial aid administrator for a degree-granting postsecondary educational institution.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 266, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-704 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-704
Encouragement of primary care and family practice medicine
Status: in_force

(a) The University of Tennessee and East Tennessee State University shall develop and implement a plan to encourage graduates of their respective colleges of medicine to become practitioners in the fields of primary care medicine or family practice medicine, or both, in this state. The plan shall be designed to ensure that the number of students from each graduating class entering such practice in this state shall be increased by ten percent (10%) over the number of graduates entering such practice prior to May 31, 1993. The requirement for a specific percentage increase shall not apply to any university graduating sixty percent (60%) of a class into family and primary care practices so long as at least sixty percent (60%) of each class continues to be in such practices; provided, that such university shall have in place the plan required by this section for emphasizing the education of doctors providing family practice and primary care in this state. (b) The plan may include grants, fee waivers, partial or full tuition reimbursement or any other appropriate financial incentives for graduates from the respective colleges of medicine to pursue careers in primary care medicine or family practice medicine, or both. (c) The cost of development and implementation of the plan shall be provided from within existing resources of the universities. Acts 1993, ch. 510, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The University of Tennessee and East Tennessee State University shall develop and implement a plan to encourage graduates of their respective colleges of medicine to become practitioners in the fields of primary care medicine or family practice medicine, or both, in this state. The plan shall be designed to ensure that the number of students from each graduating class entering such practice in this state shall be increased by ten percent (10%) over the number of graduates entering such practice prior to May 31, 1993. The requirement for a specific percentage increase shall not apply to any university graduating sixty percent (60%) of a class into family and primary care practices so long as at least sixty percent (60%) of each class continues to be in such practices; provided, that such university shall have in place the plan required by this section for emphasizing the education of doctors providing family practice and primary care in this state.
(b) The plan may include grants, fee waivers, partial or full tuition reimbursement or any other appropriate financial incentives for graduates from the respective colleges of medicine to pursue careers in primary care medicine or family practice medicine, or both.
(c) The cost of development and implementation of the plan shall be provided from within existing resources of the universities.
Acts 1993, ch. 510, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-7009 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-7009
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248,s 74, eff. 5/2/2019. Acts 2012, ch. 1044, § 1.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248,s 74, eff. 5/2/2019.
Acts 2012, ch. 1044, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-201 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-201
Creation
Status: in_force

In order to achieve coordination and unity in the program of public higher education, there is created the Tennessee higher education commission, called the commission in this part. Acts 1967, ch. 179, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-4201.
In order to achieve coordination and unity in the program of public higher education, there is created the Tennessee higher education commission, called the commission in this part.
Acts 1967, ch. 179, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-4201.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-612 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-612
Alternate assessment for students with cognitive disabilities
Status: in_force

The state's alternate assessment for students with significant cognitive disabilities shall be based on alternate academic achievement standards designed to measure the knowledge and skills of students with significant cognitive disabilities and shall be aligned to Tennessee's state academic standards. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 177,s 7, eff. 4/24/2017. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999,s 3, eff. 4/27/2016. Acts 2001, ch. 213, § 1; 2009, ch. 262, § 3.
The state's alternate assessment for students with significant cognitive disabilities shall be based on alternate academic achievement standards designed to measure the knowledge and skills of students with significant cognitive disabilities and shall be aligned to Tennessee's state academic standards.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 177,s 7, eff. 4/24/2017.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 999,s 3, eff. 4/27/2016.
Acts 2001, ch. 213, § 1; 2009, ch. 262, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-902 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-902
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) The school boards shall adopt the necessary rules and regulations, fix the basis or amounts of the annuities and the contributions made and prescribe all other necessary provisions to put this part into operation. (b) Any rule or regulation that affects either the collections or expenditures of the fund shall be approved by the municipal governing authorities in case of city or town schools, and by the county court in case of county or district schools. Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 2; Shan., § 1469b2 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a2; Code 1932, § 2526; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1602.
(a) The school boards shall adopt the necessary rules and regulations, fix the basis or amounts of the annuities and the contributions made and prescribe all other necessary provisions to put this part into operation.
(b) Any rule or regulation that affects either the collections or expenditures of the fund shall be approved by the municipal governing authorities in case of city or town schools, and by the county court in case of county or district schools.
Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 2; Shan., § 1469b2 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a2; Code 1932, § 2526; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1602.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-313 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-313
Standards recommendation committee - Science and social studies
Status: in_force

(a) Prior to the next adoption of academic standards in the subjects of science and social studies, the state board of education shall establish a process whereby the board shall receive recommendations from a standards recommendation committee appointed in the same manner as the standards recommendation committee created in § 49-1-312 . (b) (1) The standards recommendation committee shall make the final recommendations as to the new set of standards for science and social studies to the state board of education. (2) The state board of education may adopt, reject, or make technical nonsubstantive revisions to the standards recommended by the committee, but the state board of education shall adopt a set of standards in science and social studies that fit the needs of Tennessee students in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12). Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 660, s 2, eff. 3/16/2022. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 423, s 1, eff. 5/11/2015.
(a) Prior to the next adoption of academic standards in the subjects of science and social studies, the state board of education shall establish a process whereby the board shall receive recommendations from a standards recommendation committee appointed in the same manner as the standards recommendation committee created in § 49-1-312 .
(b) (1) The standards recommendation committee shall make the final recommendations as to the new set of standards for science and social studies to the state board of education. (2) The state board of education may adopt, reject, or make technical nonsubstantive revisions to the standards recommended by the committee, but the state board of education shall adopt a set of standards in science and social studies that fit the needs of Tennessee students in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12).
(1) The standards recommendation committee shall make the final recommendations as to the new set of standards for science and social studies to the state board of education.
(2) The state board of education may adopt, reject, or make technical nonsubstantive revisions to the standards recommended by the committee, but the state board of education shall adopt a set of standards in science and social studies that fit the needs of Tennessee students in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12).
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 660, s 2, eff. 3/16/2022.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 423, s 1, eff. 5/11/2015.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-301 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-301
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 19, eff. 4/11/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 5; T.C.A., § 49-2932; Acts 1990, ch. 1024, § 28; 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 19, eff. 4/11/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 5; T.C.A., § 49-2932; Acts 1990, ch. 1024, § 28; 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-1502 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-1502
Part definition
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Innovative school district" means an LEA, as defined in § 49-1-103 , authorized by this part that is composed of schools serving students in any of the grades pre-kindergarten through twelve (pre-K-12), as training schools operated by a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district; and (2) "Training school" means a public school authorized under § 49-8-105 that serves students in any of the grades pre-kindergarten through twelve (pre-K-12) and that is affiliated with a public institution of higher education in this state, to pilot and model high-quality innovative educational practices and teacher training programs, to stimulate innovative educational programs, to promote robust educational research and practice, to provide opportunities for innovation in instruction, and to provide avenues for delivering innovative course programs aligned to the needs of this state through model programs. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1053,s 1, eff. 5/28/2024, app. to the 2024-2025 school year and each school year thereafter.
As used in this part:
(1) "Innovative school district" means an LEA, as defined in § 49-1-103 , authorized by this part that is composed of schools serving students in any of the grades pre-kindergarten through twelve (pre-K-12), as training schools operated by a public university that is approved by the department of education to operate an innovative school district; and
(2) "Training school" means a public school authorized under § 49-8-105 that serves students in any of the grades pre-kindergarten through twelve (pre-K-12) and that is affiliated with a public institution of higher education in this state, to pilot and model high-quality innovative educational practices and teacher training programs, to stimulate innovative educational programs, to promote robust educational research and practice, to provide opportunities for innovation in instruction, and to provide avenues for delivering innovative course programs aligned to the needs of this state through model programs.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1053,s 1, eff. 5/28/2024, app. to the 2024-2025 school year and each school year thereafter.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2607 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2607
Use of ESA funds - Separate ESAs -Receipts for expenses - Requirements for participating schools
Status: in_force

(a) ESA funds shall only be used for the expenses listed in § 49-6-2603(a)(4) . (b) The department shall establish and maintain separate ESAs for each participating student and shall verify that the uses of ESA funds are permitted under § 49-6-2603(a)(4) and institute fraud protection measures. Use of ESA funds on tuition and fees, computer hardware or other technological devices, tutoring services, educational therapy services, summer education programs and specialized afterschool education programs, and any other expenses identified by the department must be preapproved by the department. Preapproval shall be requested by completing and submitting the department's preapproval form. The department shall develop processes to effectuate this subsection (b). (c) To document compliance with subsection (a), participating schools, providers, and eligible postsecondary institutions shall provide parents of participating students or participating students, as applicable, with a receipt for all expenses paid to the participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution using ESA funds. (d) A participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution shall not, in any manner, refund, rebate, or share funds from an ESA with a parent of a participating student or a participating student. The department shall establish a process for funds to be returned to an ESA by a participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution. (e) To ensure the safety and equitable treatment of participating students, participating schools shall: (1) Comply with all state and federal health and safety laws applicable to nonpublic schools; (2) Certify that the participating school will not discriminate against participating students or applicants on the basis of race, color, or national origin; (3) Comply with § 49-5-202 ; (4) Conduct criminal background checks on employees; and (5) Exclude from employment: (A) Any person who is not permitted by state law to work in a nonpublic school; and (B) Any person who might reasonably pose a threat to the safety of students. (f) An LEA shall provide a participating school that has admitted a participating student with a complete copy of the participating student's school records in the LEA's possession to the extent permitted by state and federal student privacy laws. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 506, s 1, eff. 5/24/2019.
(a) ESA funds shall only be used for the expenses listed in § 49-6-2603(a)(4) .
(b) The department shall establish and maintain separate ESAs for each participating student and shall verify that the uses of ESA funds are permitted under § 49-6-2603(a)(4) and institute fraud protection measures. Use of ESA funds on tuition and fees, computer hardware or other technological devices, tutoring services, educational therapy services, summer education programs and specialized afterschool education programs, and any other expenses identified by the department must be preapproved by the department. Preapproval shall be requested by completing and submitting the department's preapproval form. The department shall develop processes to effectuate this subsection (b).
(c) To document compliance with subsection (a), participating schools, providers, and eligible postsecondary institutions shall provide parents of participating students or participating students, as applicable, with a receipt for all expenses paid to the participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution using ESA funds.
(d) A participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution shall not, in any manner, refund, rebate, or share funds from an ESA with a parent of a participating student or a participating student. The department shall establish a process for funds to be returned to an ESA by a participating school, provider, or eligible postsecondary institution.
(e) To ensure the safety and equitable treatment of participating students, participating schools shall: (1) Comply with all state and federal health and safety laws applicable to nonpublic schools; (2) Certify that the participating school will not discriminate against participating students or applicants on the basis of race, color, or national origin; (3) Comply with § 49-5-202 ; (4) Conduct criminal background checks on employees; and (5) Exclude from employment: (A) Any person who is not permitted by state law to work in a nonpublic school; and (B) Any person who might reasonably pose a threat to the safety of students.
(1) Comply with all state and federal health and safety laws applicable to nonpublic schools;
(2) Certify that the participating school will not discriminate against participating students or applicants on the basis of race, color, or national origin;
(3) Comply with § 49-5-202 ;
(4) Conduct criminal background checks on employees; and
(5) Exclude from employment: (A) Any person who is not permitted by state law to work in a nonpublic school; and (B) Any person who might reasonably pose a threat to the safety of students.
(A) Any person who is not permitted by state law to work in a nonpublic school; and
(B) Any person who might reasonably pose a threat to the safety of students.
(f) An LEA shall provide a participating school that has admitted a participating student with a complete copy of the participating student's school records in the LEA's possession to the extent permitted by state and federal student privacy laws.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 506, s 1, eff. 5/24/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-11-904 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 11 / Section 49-11-904
Amount of grants
Status: in_force

(a) The grant amount allowed under this part shall be limited to five thousand dollars ($5,000) per employer in any calendar year. (b) The total amount of grants provided to employers under this part shall not exceed one million dollars ($1,000,000) for any calendar year. Added by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 991,s 2, eff. 5/21/2018.
(a) The grant amount allowed under this part shall be limited to five thousand dollars ($5,000) per employer in any calendar year.
(b) The total amount of grants provided to employers under this part shall not exceed one million dollars ($1,000,000) for any calendar year.
Added by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 991,s 2, eff. 5/21/2018.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1009 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1009
American sign language
Status: in_force

(a) American sign language is recognized and adopted as the official and native sign language of the deaf in this state. (b) It is the intent of the general assembly to: (1) Formally express its respect for American sign language; (2) Promote public awareness of and appreciation for American sign language, its use and its benefits; (3) Preserve the culture and heritage of American sign language; and (4) Encourage Tennessee schools to offer courses in American sign language and to accept these courses as satisfying foreign language requirements. (c) The state board of education shall adopt a policy allowing American sign language courses to satisfy the foreign language credits required for graduation. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 270,s 1, eff. 7/1/2017. Acts 1990, ch. 659, § 2.
(a) American sign language is recognized and adopted as the official and native sign language of the deaf in this state.
(b) It is the intent of the general assembly to: (1) Formally express its respect for American sign language; (2) Promote public awareness of and appreciation for American sign language, its use and its benefits; (3) Preserve the culture and heritage of American sign language; and (4) Encourage Tennessee schools to offer courses in American sign language and to accept these courses as satisfying foreign language requirements.
(1) Formally express its respect for American sign language;
(2) Promote public awareness of and appreciation for American sign language, its use and its benefits;
(3) Preserve the culture and heritage of American sign language; and
(4) Encourage Tennessee schools to offer courses in American sign language and to accept these courses as satisfying foreign language requirements.
(c) The state board of education shall adopt a policy allowing American sign language courses to satisfy the foreign language credits required for graduation.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 270,s 1, eff. 7/1/2017.
Acts 1990, ch. 659, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-824 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-824
Effect of termination of plan on contract
Status: in_force

(a) A tuition contract terminates when the plan is terminated if the contract does not remain in effect under subsection (b). In that event, the purchaser must make a written request to the board to roll the tuition account over to another qualified tuition program established under § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 529 ). If the purchaser does not make the request by the final plan termination date, a refund shall be made to the person designated in the contract to receive the refund. The board shall determine the amount payable pursuant to a rollover request and the amount of any refund upon termination of the plan. Any rollover under this section shall be administered in accordance with the applicable rollover provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. (b) Unless otherwise provided by the board, an educational services plan tuition contract remains in effect after the plan is terminated if, when the plan is terminated, the beneficiary: (1) Has been accepted by or is enrolled in an institution of higher education; or (2) Is projected to graduate from high school no later than the third anniversary of the date the plan is terminated. (c) After all obligations of this section and the costs of administering the plan are satisfied, the state treasurer may transfer all or a portion of any assets to the board of trustees for the college savings trust fund program to be used for the administration and marketing of the educational investment plan. Any assets remaining after the transfer must be transferred to the general fund. (d) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an educational services plan tuition contract shall not remain or otherwise be in effect after December 31, 2021, regardless of whether the requirements of subsection (b) are met with respect to any particular contract. The state shall provide educational services plan purchasers and beneficiaries with at least sixty (60) days written notice of the termination of the educational services plan prior to November 1, 2021. Notice must be provided using the contact information on file with the plan and indicate that the purchaser may request use of any or all tuition units associated with the purchaser's educational plan tuition contract, request a refund, or request a rollover on or before November 1, 2021. Any rollover requested pursuant to this subsection (d) must be administered in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. If the purchaser does not request use of all of the tuition units associated with the purchaser's educational services plan tuition contract, request a refund, or request a rollover on or before November 1, 2021, then a refund must be made to the person designated in the contract to receive the refund in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations; provided, however, that the amount of the refund must be calculated in accordance with the board's rules for refunds following the death or permanent disability of a beneficiary. The educational services plan shall not reimburse tuition units after December 31, 2021. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 469, Secs.s 1, s 2 eff. 5/18/2021. Acts 1996, ch. 991, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-7-822 ; Acts 1999, ch. 233, § 35; 2007 , ch. 21, § 2.
(a) A tuition contract terminates when the plan is terminated if the contract does not remain in effect under subsection (b). In that event, the purchaser must make a written request to the board to roll the tuition account over to another qualified tuition program established under § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 529 ). If the purchaser does not make the request by the final plan termination date, a refund shall be made to the person designated in the contract to receive the refund. The board shall determine the amount payable pursuant to a rollover request and the amount of any refund upon termination of the plan. Any rollover under this section shall be administered in accordance with the applicable rollover provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
(b) Unless otherwise provided by the board, an educational services plan tuition contract remains in effect after the plan is terminated if, when the plan is terminated, the beneficiary: (1) Has been accepted by or is enrolled in an institution of higher education; or (2) Is projected to graduate from high school no later than the third anniversary of the date the plan is terminated.
(1) Has been accepted by or is enrolled in an institution of higher education; or
(2) Is projected to graduate from high school no later than the third anniversary of the date the plan is terminated.
(c) After all obligations of this section and the costs of administering the plan are satisfied, the state treasurer may transfer all or a portion of any assets to the board of trustees for the college savings trust fund program to be used for the administration and marketing of the educational investment plan. Any assets remaining after the transfer must be transferred to the general fund.
(d) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an educational services plan tuition contract shall not remain or otherwise be in effect after December 31, 2021, regardless of whether the requirements of subsection (b) are met with respect to any particular contract. The state shall provide educational services plan purchasers and beneficiaries with at least sixty (60) days written notice of the termination of the educational services plan prior to November 1, 2021. Notice must be provided using the contact information on file with the plan and indicate that the purchaser may request use of any or all tuition units associated with the purchaser's educational plan tuition contract, request a refund, or request a rollover on or before November 1, 2021. Any rollover requested pursuant to this subsection (d) must be administered in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. If the purchaser does not request use of all of the tuition units associated with the purchaser's educational services plan tuition contract, request a refund, or request a rollover on or before November 1, 2021, then a refund must be made to the person designated in the contract to receive the refund in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations; provided, however, that the amount of the refund must be calculated in accordance with the board's rules for refunds following the death or permanent disability of a beneficiary. The educational services plan shall not reimburse tuition units after December 31, 2021.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 469, Secs.s 1, s 2 eff. 5/18/2021.
Acts 1996, ch. 991, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-7-822 ; Acts 1999, ch. 233, § 35; 2007 , ch. 21, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-3-1201 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 3 / Section 49-3-1201
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee State School Bond Authority Act." Acts 1965, ch. 256, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-3512.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee State School Bond Authority Act."
Acts 1965, ch. 256, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-3512.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-107 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-107
Blind or visually limited teachers
Status: in_force

No person otherwise qualified shall be denied the right to enter training in any college or university or engage in practice teaching for the purpose of becoming a teacher on the ground the person is totally blind or visually limited; nor shall any local board of education refuse to employ a licensed teacher on those grounds; provided, that the blind or visually limited person is able to carry out the duties of the position for which the person applies. Acts 1951, ch. 58, § 2 (Williams, § 2365.6); modified; Acts 1959, ch. 121, § 1; 1967, ch. 255, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 58, 59; 1978, ch. 675, § 2; 1981, ch. 172, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1236; Acts 1987, ch. 308, § 18.
No person otherwise qualified shall be denied the right to enter training in any college or university or engage in practice teaching for the purpose of becoming a teacher on the ground the person is totally blind or visually limited; nor shall any local board of education refuse to employ a licensed teacher on those grounds; provided, that the blind or visually limited person is able to carry out the duties of the position for which the person applies.
Acts 1951, ch. 58, § 2 (Williams, § 2365.6); modified; Acts 1959, ch. 121, § 1; 1967, ch. 255, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 58, 59; 1978, ch. 675, § 2; 1981, ch. 172, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1236; Acts 1987, ch. 308, § 18.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-172 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-172
Suicide prevention plan for students, faculty, and staff
Status: in_force

(a) Each state institution of higher education shall develop and implement a suicide prevention plan for students, faculty, and staff. The plan must: (1) Be developed in consultation with campus mental health professionals and suicide prevention experts; (2) Identify procedures related to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention; and (3) Include a strategy to raise awareness of the mental health and crisis support services and resources, such as the contact information for suicide prevention and crisis lifelines, that are available to students, faculty, and staff. (b) Each state institution of higher education may seek assistance in developing a suicide prevention plan from an organization that engages in a variety of initiatives to improve crisis services and advance suicide prevention, such as the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network or a successor organization, and may seek information from such an organization for information on the development of training programs pursuant to § 63-1-125(c)(1) . (c) Each state institution of higher education shall provide the suicide prevention plan to students, faculty, and staff at least one (1) time each semester. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 190, s 4, eff. 7/1/2023. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 455, s 1, eff. 4/3/2019.
(a) Each state institution of higher education shall develop and implement a suicide prevention plan for students, faculty, and staff. The plan must: (1) Be developed in consultation with campus mental health professionals and suicide prevention experts; (2) Identify procedures related to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention; and (3) Include a strategy to raise awareness of the mental health and crisis support services and resources, such as the contact information for suicide prevention and crisis lifelines, that are available to students, faculty, and staff.
(1) Be developed in consultation with campus mental health professionals and suicide prevention experts;
(2) Identify procedures related to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention; and
(3) Include a strategy to raise awareness of the mental health and crisis support services and resources, such as the contact information for suicide prevention and crisis lifelines, that are available to students, faculty, and staff.
(b) Each state institution of higher education may seek assistance in developing a suicide prevention plan from an organization that engages in a variety of initiatives to improve crisis services and advance suicide prevention, such as the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network or a successor organization, and may seek information from such an organization for information on the development of training programs pursuant to § 63-1-125(c)(1) .
(c) Each state institution of higher education shall provide the suicide prevention plan to students, faculty, and staff at least one (1) time each semester.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 190, s 4, eff. 7/1/2023.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 455, s 1, eff. 4/3/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1303 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1303
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Military-affiliated" means active-duty military personnel, reservists, members of the national guard, and reserve officer training corps program cadets; (2) "THEC" means the Tennessee higher education commission; (3) "Veteran" means a former member of the armed forces of the United States, or a former or current member of a reserve or Tennessee national guard unit who was called into active military service of the United States, as defined in § 58-1-102 ; and (4) "Veterans education transition support campus" or "VETS campus" means a campus of a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education that has demonstrated educational support for veterans and has been designated by THEC under this part as a campus supportive of veterans. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 791, s 1, eff. 4/8/2022. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 657, s 3, eff. 3/29/2016.
As used in this part:
(1) "Military-affiliated" means active-duty military personnel, reservists, members of the national guard, and reserve officer training corps program cadets;
(2) "THEC" means the Tennessee higher education commission;
(3) "Veteran" means a former member of the armed forces of the United States, or a former or current member of a reserve or Tennessee national guard unit who was called into active military service of the United States, as defined in § 58-1-102 ; and
(4) "Veterans education transition support campus" or "VETS campus" means a campus of a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education that has demonstrated educational support for veterans and has been designated by THEC under this part as a campus supportive of veterans.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 791, s 1, eff. 4/8/2022.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 657, s 3, eff. 3/29/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-14-103 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 14 / Section 49-14-103
Establishment of process for confidentially reporting misconduct
Status: in_force

(a) The internal auditor shall establish a process by which students, employees, taxpayers or other citizens may confidentially report suspected illegal, improper, wasteful or fraudulent activity. The detailed information received pursuant to such a report of illegal, improper, wasteful or fraudulent activity or any ongoing investigation of the activity shall be considered working papers of the internal auditor and shall be confidential under title 10, chapter 7. Each year the internal auditor shall include within the auditor's annual report a summary of all completed audit activities pursuant to this chapter. (b) Section 8-50-116 shall apply to all higher education employees. In addition, no higher education employee shall suffer any of the actions specified in § 8-50-116 for reporting to or cooperating with auditors or for reporting any facts to the governing boards of public institutions of higher education or to the audit committees of those boards. It is a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly and willingly retaliate or take adverse action of any kind against any person for reporting alleged wrongdoing pursuant to this chapter. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 28, s 7, eff. 3/29/2017. Acts 2004, ch. 904, § 3.
(a) The internal auditor shall establish a process by which students, employees, taxpayers or other citizens may confidentially report suspected illegal, improper, wasteful or fraudulent activity. The detailed information received pursuant to such a report of illegal, improper, wasteful or fraudulent activity or any ongoing investigation of the activity shall be considered working papers of the internal auditor and shall be confidential under title 10, chapter 7. Each year the internal auditor shall include within the auditor's annual report a summary of all completed audit activities pursuant to this chapter.
(b) Section 8-50-116 shall apply to all higher education employees. In addition, no higher education employee shall suffer any of the actions specified in § 8-50-116 for reporting to or cooperating with auditors or for reporting any facts to the governing boards of public institutions of higher education or to the audit committees of those boards. It is a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly and willingly retaliate or take adverse action of any kind against any person for reporting alleged wrongdoing pursuant to this chapter.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 28, s 7, eff. 3/29/2017.
Acts 2004, ch. 904, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-107 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-107
Contracts between LEAs to provide services for children with disabilities
Status: in_force

(a) Nothing in this chapter prevents an LEA from providing special education or related services for children with disabilities by contracting with another LEA to provide services for children with disabilities from the other LEA. (b) The LEA in which the child is enrolled shall continue to be responsible for ensuring that the child receives special education and related services in accordance with the IDEA and nothing in this chapter relieves the LEA from having to comply with the requirements of this chapter. (c) Agreements or contracts made pursuant to subsection (a) must be in writing and may include the provision of special education and related services, payment of reasonable costs of providing special education and related services, or other related costs. (d) Any child provided special education or related services through an agreement made pursuant to subsection (a), and any parent or legal guardian of the child, retain all civil and other rights that the child would have if receiving special education or related services in the LEA where the child is enrolled. Any agreement or contract made pursuant to subsection (a) must contain a provision to that effect. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 9, eff. 4/11/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 4; 1978, ch. 574, § 2; T.C.A., § 49-2929; Acts 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
(a) Nothing in this chapter prevents an LEA from providing special education or related services for children with disabilities by contracting with another LEA to provide services for children with disabilities from the other LEA.
(b) The LEA in which the child is enrolled shall continue to be responsible for ensuring that the child receives special education and related services in accordance with the IDEA and nothing in this chapter relieves the LEA from having to comply with the requirements of this chapter.
(c) Agreements or contracts made pursuant to subsection (a) must be in writing and may include the provision of special education and related services, payment of reasonable costs of providing special education and related services, or other related costs.
(d) Any child provided special education or related services through an agreement made pursuant to subsection (a), and any parent or legal guardian of the child, retain all civil and other rights that the child would have if receiving special education or related services in the LEA where the child is enrolled. Any agreement or contract made pursuant to subsection (a) must contain a provision to that effect.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 107,s 9, eff. 4/11/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 4; 1978, ch. 574, § 2; T.C.A., § 49-2929; Acts 1994, ch. 768, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1404 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1404
Nutrition and physical activity programs in schools where aggregate data suggests high rates of obesity
Status: in_force

Schools where aggregate data suggests that high rates of overweight children may be a problem are encouraged to expand existing or implement new school-based nutrition and physical activity programs designed to reduce those rates. The effectiveness of these results could be determined by completing a BMI-for-age on the school's students whose parents or guardians have not requested exclusion from the testing at the end of the school year. Acts 2005, ch. 194, § 5.
Schools where aggregate data suggests that high rates of overweight children may be a problem are encouraged to expand existing or implement new school-based nutrition and physical activity programs designed to reduce those rates. The effectiveness of these results could be determined by completing a BMI-for-age on the school's students whose parents or guardians have not requested exclusion from the testing at the end of the school year.
Acts 2005, ch. 194, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-4-941 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 4 / Section 49-4-941
Terminating events for receipt of lottery scholarships
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision of this part concerning the terminating events for receipt of Tennessee HOPE scholarships, Tennessee HOPE access grants or Tennessee HOPE scholarships for nontraditional students to the contrary, semester hours attempted by a student in the summer semester 2011 for which the student did not receive postsecondary financial assistance from net lottery proceeds shall not be credited against the limitation on the number of semester hours under § 49-4-913 , § 49-4-920 or § 49-4-931 that the student may receive such scholarships or grants. Acts 2011 , ch. 437, § 6.
Notwithstanding any provision of this part concerning the terminating events for receipt of Tennessee HOPE scholarships, Tennessee HOPE access grants or Tennessee HOPE scholarships for nontraditional students to the contrary, semester hours attempted by a student in the summer semester 2011 for which the student did not receive postsecondary financial assistance from net lottery proceeds shall not be credited against the limitation on the number of semester hours under § 49-4-913 , § 49-4-920 or § 49-4-931 that the student may receive such scholarships or grants.
Acts 2011 , ch. 437, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-13-126 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 13 / Section 49-13-126
Promulgation of rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) The state board of education is authorized to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter. Rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, the commissioner of education shall promulgate rules and procedures for the authorization of charter schools by the achievement school district pursuant to this chapter. Rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 125, eff. 5/10/2019. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 78, eff. 4/26/2019. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, s 78, eff. 4/17/2015. Acts 2002, ch. 850, §27; 2011 , ch. 410, § 4 (hh); 2011 , ch. 466, § 16.
(a) The state board of education is authorized to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter. Rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, the commissioner of education shall promulgate rules and procedures for the authorization of charter schools by the achievement school district pursuant to this chapter. Rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 125, eff. 5/10/2019.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 219, s 78, eff. 4/26/2019.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 182, s 78, eff. 4/17/2015.
Acts 2002, ch. 850, §27; 2011 , ch. 410, § 4 (hh); 2011 , ch. 466, § 16.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2210 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2210
Student access to textbooks
Status: in_force

Every student shall be permitted to take any textbook or instructional materials specifically issued to the student home for the purpose of studying the textbook or instructional materials. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent a school or teacher from requiring a student to return the textbook or instructional materials to the classroom during school hours.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-2803 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-2803
Interference with intercollegiate athlete's ability to earn compensation prohibited
Status: in_force

An intercollegiate athletic association, including through its governing actions, sanctions, bylaws, and rules, shall not interfere with an intercollegiate athlete's ability to earn compensation, seek representation, or perform diligence in accordance with this part and shall not otherwise impact an intercollegiate athlete's eligibility or full participation in intercollegiate athletic events, unless the intercollegiate athlete has committed a violation of an institution's rules, or this chapter is invalidated or rendered unenforceable by operation of law. The attorney general and reporter may bring any appropriate action or proceeding against an intercollegiate athletic association in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to this part. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 1, eff. 5/1/2024. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 845, s 5, eff. 4/20/2022.
An intercollegiate athletic association, including through its governing actions, sanctions, bylaws, and rules, shall not interfere with an intercollegiate athlete's ability to earn compensation, seek representation, or perform diligence in accordance with this part and shall not otherwise impact an intercollegiate athlete's eligibility or full participation in intercollegiate athletic events, unless the intercollegiate athlete has committed a violation of an institution's rules, or this chapter is invalidated or rendered unenforceable by operation of law. The attorney general and reporter may bring any appropriate action or proceeding against an intercollegiate athletic association in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to this part.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 1, eff. 5/1/2024.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 845, s 5, eff. 4/20/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-601 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-601
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Volunteer Trust Fund Act." Acts 1987, ch. 129, § 1.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Volunteer Trust Fund Act."
Acts 1987, ch. 129, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-818 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-818
Delegation to state treasurer for implementation of policies
Status: in_force

(a) Implementation of the policies established by the board may be delegated by the board to the state treasurer who shall put the policies into effect. (b) Subject to the delegation of the board, the state treasurer shall have full power to invest and reinvest the assets of the trust funds. Acts 1996, ch. 991, § 1; T.C.A. § 49-7-816 ; Acts 1999, ch. 233, §§ 27, 28.
(a) Implementation of the policies established by the board may be delegated by the board to the state treasurer who shall put the policies into effect.
(b) Subject to the delegation of the board, the state treasurer shall have full power to invest and reinvest the assets of the trust funds.
Acts 1996, ch. 991, § 1; T.C.A. § 49-7-816 ; Acts 1999, ch. 233, §§ 27, 28.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-602 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-602
Center for Earthquake Research and Information
Status: in_force

(a) There is established the Tennessee Center for Earthquake Research and Information, which shall operate as a division of the University of Memphis, to provide services such as the following: (1) Accurate, immediate reports for individuals, governmental agencies and the news media on the occurrence of earthquakes; (2) Background information on earthquakes for individuals, civic groups, schools, governmental agencies, the news media and others; (3) Research related to the causes and consequences of local earthquakes, to develop the information as the precise locations of earthquakes, magnitude-frequency relationships, magnitude-duration relationships, source spectra studies, attenuation studies, bedrock structures studies and behavior of foundation materials studies; (4) Studies of the desirability of earthquake resistant construction; (5) Advice to governmental bodies, insurance groups and others on the methods and feasibility of reducing earthquake damage; and (6) Earthquake prediction. (b) The university is authorized to accept for the establishment, maintenance or operation of the center gifts, grants, funds and other assistance from any agency of state, federal or local governments, or private entities and individuals, and to use or spend the same on behalf of the center. Acts 1977, ch. 460, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 49-3262; Acts 1994, ch. 538, § 2; 1994, ch. 744, § 3.
(a) There is established the Tennessee Center for Earthquake Research and Information, which shall operate as a division of the University of Memphis, to provide services such as the following: (1) Accurate, immediate reports for individuals, governmental agencies and the news media on the occurrence of earthquakes; (2) Background information on earthquakes for individuals, civic groups, schools, governmental agencies, the news media and others; (3) Research related to the causes and consequences of local earthquakes, to develop the information as the precise locations of earthquakes, magnitude-frequency relationships, magnitude-duration relationships, source spectra studies, attenuation studies, bedrock structures studies and behavior of foundation materials studies; (4) Studies of the desirability of earthquake resistant construction; (5) Advice to governmental bodies, insurance groups and others on the methods and feasibility of reducing earthquake damage; and (6) Earthquake prediction.
(1) Accurate, immediate reports for individuals, governmental agencies and the news media on the occurrence of earthquakes;
(2) Background information on earthquakes for individuals, civic groups, schools, governmental agencies, the news media and others;
(3) Research related to the causes and consequences of local earthquakes, to develop the information as the precise locations of earthquakes, magnitude-frequency relationships, magnitude-duration relationships, source spectra studies, attenuation studies, bedrock structures studies and behavior of foundation materials studies;
(4) Studies of the desirability of earthquake resistant construction;
(5) Advice to governmental bodies, insurance groups and others on the methods and feasibility of reducing earthquake damage; and
(6) Earthquake prediction.
(b) The university is authorized to accept for the establishment, maintenance or operation of the center gifts, grants, funds and other assistance from any agency of state, federal or local governments, or private entities and individuals, and to use or spend the same on behalf of the center.
Acts 1977, ch. 460, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 49-3262; Acts 1994, ch. 538, § 2; 1994, ch. 744, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-103 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-103
Title definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this title, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Board," "local board," or "local board of education" means the board of education that manages and controls the respective local public school system; and (2) "Local education agency (LEA)," "school system," "public school system," "local school system," "school district," or "local school district" means any county school system, city school system, special school district, unified school system, metropolitan school system or any other local public school system or school district created or authorized by the general assembly. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 2; Shan. Supp., § 1487a16; Code 1932, § 2307; Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 1; 1979, ch. 20, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-102.
As used in this title, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Board," "local board," or "local board of education" means the board of education that manages and controls the respective local public school system; and
(2) "Local education agency (LEA)," "school system," "public school system," "local school system," "school district," or "local school district" means any county school system, city school system, special school district, unified school system, metropolitan school system or any other local public school system or school district created or authorized by the general assembly.
Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 2; Shan. Supp., § 1487a16; Code 1932, § 2307; Acts 1974, ch. 654, § 1; 1979, ch. 20, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-102.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1404 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1404
Annual audit
Status: in_force

The operations of entities described in § 49-9-1402(a) shall be audited annually by an independent certified public accountant, and copies of the audit shall be furnished to the comptroller of the treasury. An entity described in § 49-9-1402(a) shall also be subject to audit by the comptroller of the treasury, but nothing in this section shall be construed to mean that the entity is an agency, department, instrumentality, political subdivision or other arm of the state. Acts 2000, ch. 784, § 1.
The operations of entities described in § 49-9-1402(a) shall be audited annually by an independent certified public accountant, and copies of the audit shall be furnished to the comptroller of the treasury. An entity described in § 49-9-1402(a) shall also be subject to audit by the comptroller of the treasury, but nothing in this section shall be construed to mean that the entity is an agency, department, instrumentality, political subdivision or other arm of the state.
Acts 2000, ch. 784, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-503 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-503
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 23, eff. 4/18/2018. Acts 1990, ch. 996, § 3; 1996, ch. 1079, § 183.
Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 23, eff. 4/18/2018.
Acts 1990, ch. 996, § 3; 1996, ch. 1079, § 183.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1033 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1033
Recognition of and education regarding traditional winter celebrations
Status: in_force

(a) An LEA may educate students about the history of traditional winter celebrations and allow students and LEA staff to offer traditional greetings regarding the celebrations, including, but not limited to: (1) "Merry Christmas"; (2) "Happy Hanukkah"; and (3) "Happy holidays". (b) Except as provided in subsection (c), an LEA may display on school property scenes or symbols associated with traditional winter celebrations, including a menorah or a Christmas image such as a nativity scene or Christmas tree, if the display includes a scene or symbol of: (1) More than one (1) religion; or (2) One (1) religion and at least one (1) secular scene or symbol. (c) A display relating to a traditional winter celebration may not include a message that encourages adherence to a particular religious belief. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 687,s 1, eff. 7/1/2014.
(a) An LEA may educate students about the history of traditional winter celebrations and allow students and LEA staff to offer traditional greetings regarding the celebrations, including, but not limited to: (1) "Merry Christmas"; (2) "Happy Hanukkah"; and (3) "Happy holidays".
(1) "Merry Christmas";
(2) "Happy Hanukkah"; and
(3) "Happy holidays".
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c), an LEA may display on school property scenes or symbols associated with traditional winter celebrations, including a menorah or a Christmas image such as a nativity scene or Christmas tree, if the display includes a scene or symbol of: (1) More than one (1) religion; or (2) One (1) religion and at least one (1) secular scene or symbol.
(1) More than one (1) religion; or
(2) One (1) religion and at least one (1) secular scene or symbol.
(c) A display relating to a traditional winter celebration may not include a message that encourages adherence to a particular religious belief.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 687,s 1, eff. 7/1/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-5608 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-5608
Training for teaching children with behavioral or emotional disorders
Status: in_force

All teacher training institutions are encouraged to offer, and encourage all students to take, a course specifically designed for prevention and intervention strategies in behavioral/emotional disorders. This course should include information from the fields of psychology and education. Acts 1994, ch. 985, § 5.
All teacher training institutions are encouraged to offer, and encourage all students to take, a course specifically designed for prevention and intervention strategies in behavioral/emotional disorders. This course should include information from the fields of psychology and education.
Acts 1994, ch. 985, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2302 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2302
Establishment of nutritional breakfast and lunch programs
Status: in_force

(a) Unless a waiver is granted pursuant to § 49-6-2303(10) , and only to the extent federal funds are available for free or reduced price meals: (1) Each school board shall establish a school lunch program in every school under its jurisdiction in accordance with rules and regulations established under § 49-6-2303 ; and (2) Each school board shall establish a school breakfast program in the following schools based on the cumulative analysis of school lunch participation for the month of April of the preceding school year: (A) Every school that contains kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price; and (B) In every school that does not contain a kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which forty percent (40%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price. (b) Each LEA operating a school breakfast program pursuant to this part shall be reimbursed by the state for any additional expenses to that agency that are incurred as a result of implementation of this part. (c) The school breakfast program shall automatically terminate if federal funding for such program ceases. Acts 1986, ch. 904, § 2.
(a) Unless a waiver is granted pursuant to § 49-6-2303(10) , and only to the extent federal funds are available for free or reduced price meals: (1) Each school board shall establish a school lunch program in every school under its jurisdiction in accordance with rules and regulations established under § 49-6-2303 ; and (2) Each school board shall establish a school breakfast program in the following schools based on the cumulative analysis of school lunch participation for the month of April of the preceding school year: (A) Every school that contains kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price; and (B) In every school that does not contain a kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which forty percent (40%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price.
(1) Each school board shall establish a school lunch program in every school under its jurisdiction in accordance with rules and regulations established under § 49-6-2303 ; and
(2) Each school board shall establish a school breakfast program in the following schools based on the cumulative analysis of school lunch participation for the month of April of the preceding school year: (A) Every school that contains kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price; and (B) In every school that does not contain a kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which forty percent (40%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price.
(A) Every school that contains kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price; and
(B) In every school that does not contain a kindergarten through grade eight (K-8) in which forty percent (40%) or more of the students participated in the school lunch program at a free or reduced price.
(b) Each LEA operating a school breakfast program pursuant to this part shall be reimbursed by the state for any additional expenses to that agency that are incurred as a result of implementation of this part.
(c) The school breakfast program shall automatically terminate if federal funding for such program ceases.
Acts 1986, ch. 904, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-6003 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-6003
Comprehensive writing assessment
Status: in_force

A comprehensive writing assessment shall be conducted in at least one (1) grade within each of the following grade spans: elementary, middle grades and high school, as determined by the state board of education. Acts 1997, ch. 434, § 6; 2002, ch. 711, § 1.
A comprehensive writing assessment shall be conducted in at least one (1) grade within each of the following grade spans: elementary, middle grades and high school, as determined by the state board of education.
Acts 1997, ch. 434, § 6; 2002, ch. 711, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-706 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 1 / Section 49-1-706
Written consent required prior to collection of certain individual student biometric data
Status: in_force

(a) Unless explicitly mandated by state or federal law, a state agency or educational institution shall obtain written consent from parents or students, in the case of students eighteen (18) years of age or older, before collecting any individual student biometric data, student data relative to analysis of facial expressions, EEG brain wave patterns, skin conductance, galvanic skin response, heart-rate variability, pulse, blood volume, posture, and eye-tracking. (b) No state agency or educational institution shall pursue or accept any grant whether from the federal government or any private entity that requires collecting or reporting information in violation of subsection (a). (c) No state or national student assessment shall be adopted or administered in this state that requires collecting or reporting information in violation of subsection (a). Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 905,s 8, eff. 7/1/2014.
(a) Unless explicitly mandated by state or federal law, a state agency or educational institution shall obtain written consent from parents or students, in the case of students eighteen (18) years of age or older, before collecting any individual student biometric data, student data relative to analysis of facial expressions, EEG brain wave patterns, skin conductance, galvanic skin response, heart-rate variability, pulse, blood volume, posture, and eye-tracking.
(b) No state agency or educational institution shall pursue or accept any grant whether from the federal government or any private entity that requires collecting or reporting information in violation of subsection (a).
(c) No state or national student assessment shall be adopted or administered in this state that requires collecting or reporting information in violation of subsection (a).
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 905,s 8, eff. 7/1/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-2115 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-2115
Compliance with school bus and motor vehicle safety standards
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any rule of the state board of education or the department of safety to the contrary, all school buses purchased by an LEA or private contractor to transport school students shall meet national minimum school bus standards and all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards. A van type vehicle used only to transport students to and from school-related activities is not required to comply with former 23 CFR 1204-4 Guide 17 or any other federal standards, guidelines, or recommendations, but shall comply with applicable rules and regulations promulgated by the state board of education or the department of safety. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 122, s 9, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 1994, ch. 720, § 2; 1998, ch. 562, § 1.
Notwithstanding any rule of the state board of education or the department of safety to the contrary, all school buses purchased by an LEA or private contractor to transport school students shall meet national minimum school bus standards and all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards. A van type vehicle used only to transport students to and from school-related activities is not required to comply with former 23 CFR 1204-4 Guide 17 or any other federal standards, guidelines, or recommendations, but shall comply with applicable rules and regulations promulgated by the state board of education or the department of safety.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 122, s 9, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 1994, ch. 720, § 2; 1998, ch. 562, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-206 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-206
Rights and status of other bodies preserved
Status: repealed

(a) (1) The University of Tennessee shall retain its identity and status as a legal entity, a body politic and corporate and as one of the state's federal land-grant institutions. (2) Except as expressly provided in this part, its board of trustees shall retain and exercise all the authority, rights, powers and duties, express or implied, vested in it by legislative charter and enactments and other applicable laws. Nothing in this part shall be construed to deprive the board of the authority, rights, powers and duties conferred upon it by law in the government of the institutions, branches, colleges, divisions and departments now under its control, except those duties that by this part are expressly vested in the commission. (b) Except for the powers that are vested in the commission by this part, nothing in this part shall be construed to deprive the board of regents and the state university boards of the authority, rights, powers, and duties conferred upon them by law, express or implied, in the government, control, and operation of their respective institutions. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602,s 16, eff. 3/23/2018. Acts 1967, ch. 179, §§ 12, 13; impl. am. Acts 1969, ch. 302, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1972, ch. 838 § 8; T.C.A., §§ 49-4208, 49-4209; Acts 1994, ch. 538, § 2.
(a) (1) The University of Tennessee shall retain its identity and status as a legal entity, a body politic and corporate and as one of the state's federal land-grant institutions. (2) Except as expressly provided in this part, its board of trustees shall retain and exercise all the authority, rights, powers and duties, express or implied, vested in it by legislative charter and enactments and other applicable laws. Nothing in this part shall be construed to deprive the board of the authority, rights, powers and duties conferred upon it by law in the government of the institutions, branches, colleges, divisions and departments now under its control, except those duties that by this part are expressly vested in the commission.
(1) The University of Tennessee shall retain its identity and status as a legal entity, a body politic and corporate and as one of the state's federal land-grant institutions.
(2) Except as expressly provided in this part, its board of trustees shall retain and exercise all the authority, rights, powers and duties, express or implied, vested in it by legislative charter and enactments and other applicable laws. Nothing in this part shall be construed to deprive the board of the authority, rights, powers and duties conferred upon it by law in the government of the institutions, branches, colleges, divisions and departments now under its control, except those duties that by this part are expressly vested in the commission.
(b) Except for the powers that are vested in the commission by this part, nothing in this part shall be construed to deprive the board of regents and the state university boards of the authority, rights, powers, and duties conferred upon them by law, express or implied, in the government, control, and operation of their respective institutions.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 602,s 16, eff. 3/23/2018.
Acts 1967, ch. 179, §§ 12, 13; impl. am. Acts 1969, ch. 302, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1972, ch. 838 § 8; T.C.A., §§ 49-4208, 49-4209; Acts 1994, ch. 538, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1308 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1308
Conflicts of interest prohibited
Status: in_force

No member of the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee Memorial Research Center and Hospital or the trustees' immediate family shall derive any financial benefit from the transfer of the hospital to a nonprofit corporation as authorized by this part. Acts 1997, ch. 418, § 1.
No member of the board of trustees of the University of Tennessee Memorial Research Center and Hospital or the trustees' immediate family shall derive any financial benefit from the transfer of the hospital to a nonprofit corporation as authorized by this part.
Acts 1997, ch. 418, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-8-901 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 8 / Section 49-8-901
Creation
Status: in_force

The State Technical Institute in Knoxville established pursuant to § 49-8-101 and the Oak Ridge Branch of the Roane State Community College located on the Pellissippi Parkway in Knox County shall become one (1) institution, which shall be known as the Pellissippi State Community College. Acts 1988, ch. 1020, § 2; 2009 , ch. 352, § 3.
The State Technical Institute in Knoxville established pursuant to § 49-8-101 and the Oak Ridge Branch of the Roane State Community College located on the Pellissippi Parkway in Knox County shall become one (1) institution, which shall be known as the Pellissippi State Community College.
Acts 1988, ch. 1020, § 2; 2009 , ch. 352, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-307 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-307
Scholars prep guide
Status: in_force

(a) LEAs shall require schools to provide each high school student in grades nine through twelve (9-12) a scholars prep guide upon registering for a course. (b) The scholars prep guide shall be created by teachers, as determined by the school, who teach that course or are familiar with the course content and shall provide each student with information regarding the curriculum for that particular course, of which the student should be aware, and areas that might be challenging for students, with suggestions on how the student can best prepare for the course. (c) The scholars prep guide may be personalized for students by teachers who are familiar with the student's current academic standing and potential future academic challenges. Acts 2018, ch. 882, § 1.
(a) LEAs shall require schools to provide each high school student in grades nine through twelve (9-12) a scholars prep guide upon registering for a course.
(b) The scholars prep guide shall be created by teachers, as determined by the school, who teach that course or are familiar with the course content and shall provide each student with information regarding the curriculum for that particular course, of which the student should be aware, and areas that might be challenging for students, with suggestions on how the student can best prepare for the course.
(c) The scholars prep guide may be personalized for students by teachers who are familiar with the student's current academic standing and potential future academic challenges.
Acts 2018, ch. 882, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-903 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-903
"Teacher" defined
Status: in_force

As used in this part, "teacher" means and includes any director of schools, assistant director of schools, principal, assistant principal, supervisor, assistant supervisor, persons in charge of any special department of instruction, and any teacher or instructor regularly employed as such by the school board of such city or county, town or district. Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 9; Shan., § 1469b9 (p. 6545); Shan. Supp., § 1469a9; Code 1932, § 2533; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1603.
As used in this part, "teacher" means and includes any director of schools, assistant director of schools, principal, assistant principal, supervisor, assistant supervisor, persons in charge of any special department of instruction, and any teacher or instructor regularly employed as such by the school board of such city or county, town or district.
Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 9; Shan., § 1469b9 (p. 6545); Shan. Supp., § 1469a9; Code 1932, § 2533; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1603.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3027 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3027
High school student members of the state board of education
Status: in_force

A student who is appointed to serve as the public high school student member of the state board of education pursuant to § 49-1-301 must be credited as present by the public high school in which the student is enrolled for the time the student spends in the performance of the student's duties as a member of the state board of education. The student's participation as the public high school student member of the state board of education must not be counted as an absence, either excused or unexcused. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 549,s 1, eff. 3/11/2024.
A student who is appointed to serve as the public high school student member of the state board of education pursuant to § 49-1-301 must be credited as present by the public high school in which the student is enrolled for the time the student spends in the performance of the student's duties as a member of the state board of education. The student's participation as the public high school student member of the state board of education must not be counted as an absence, either excused or unexcused.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 549,s 1, eff. 3/11/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-157 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-157
Adoption of policies that substantially burden students' free exercise of religion prohibited
Status: in_force

The governing board or government entity, as defined in § 4-1-407(a) , of a public institution of higher education operating under chapter 8 or 9 of this title shall not adopt policies, rules or directives that substantially burden students' free exercise of religion, but shall comply with the requirements of § 4-1-407 . Acts 2014 , ch. 753, § 1.
The governing board or government entity, as defined in § 4-1-407(a) , of a public institution of higher education operating under chapter 8 or 9 of this title shall not adopt policies, rules or directives that substantially burden students' free exercise of religion, but shall comply with the requirements of § 4-1-407 .
Acts 2014 , ch. 753, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1306 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1306
Sovereign immunity
Status: in_force

Nothing contained in this part shall be deemed or construed to waive or abrogate in any way the sovereign immunity of the state, the university or any officer or employee of the state or the university. Acts 1997, ch. 418, § 1.
Nothing contained in this part shall be deemed or construed to waive or abrogate in any way the sovereign immunity of the state, the university or any officer or employee of the state or the university.
Acts 1997, ch. 418, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3405 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-3405
Alternative school success
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Each LEA shall track the operation and performance of alternative school programs operated by the LEA or contractually operated for the LEA. LEAs shall measure and report to the department of education alternative school success through academic indicators and behavior indicators. (2) Academic indicators shall include, but not be limited to, grade point averages or other student academic performance measures, performance on the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program (TCAP), performance on the end-of-course assessments, attendance, dropout rates and graduation rates, for students in alternative schools or who have been in alternative schools. (3) Behavioral indicators shall include, but not be limited to, disciplinary reports and subsequent remands to alternative schools. (4) The department of education shall provide guidance in the reporting of the required data. (b) The state board of education shall seek to improve performance of alternative school programs by promulgating or revising rules and regulations requiring greater accountability by the department of education and LEAs for outcomes of students served by alternative schools. Acts 2007, ch. 517, § 2; 2009, ch. 262, § 5.
(a) (1) Each LEA shall track the operation and performance of alternative school programs operated by the LEA or contractually operated for the LEA. LEAs shall measure and report to the department of education alternative school success through academic indicators and behavior indicators. (2) Academic indicators shall include, but not be limited to, grade point averages or other student academic performance measures, performance on the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program (TCAP), performance on the end-of-course assessments, attendance, dropout rates and graduation rates, for students in alternative schools or who have been in alternative schools. (3) Behavioral indicators shall include, but not be limited to, disciplinary reports and subsequent remands to alternative schools. (4) The department of education shall provide guidance in the reporting of the required data.
(1) Each LEA shall track the operation and performance of alternative school programs operated by the LEA or contractually operated for the LEA. LEAs shall measure and report to the department of education alternative school success through academic indicators and behavior indicators.
(2) Academic indicators shall include, but not be limited to, grade point averages or other student academic performance measures, performance on the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program (TCAP), performance on the end-of-course assessments, attendance, dropout rates and graduation rates, for students in alternative schools or who have been in alternative schools.
(3) Behavioral indicators shall include, but not be limited to, disciplinary reports and subsequent remands to alternative schools.
(4) The department of education shall provide guidance in the reporting of the required data.
(b) The state board of education shall seek to improve performance of alternative school programs by promulgating or revising rules and regulations requiring greater accountability by the department of education and LEAs for outcomes of students served by alternative schools.
Acts 2007, ch. 517, § 2; 2009, ch. 262, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-1602 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-1602
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Board" means the trustees of the University of Tennessee or a state university board, as applicable; (2) "Cost of attendance" means the combined cost of tuition, mandatory fees, room and board, books, and other educational expenses as determined by the financial aid office of the postsecondary institution; (3) "Predictive cost estimate" means a non-binding estimated cost of attending an undergraduate program at the postsecondary institution based on a student's chosen field of study over a four-year period. A predictive cost estimate may include, but is not limited to, potential tuition and mandatory fee increases, projected increases in tuition based on a student's chosen field of study, and historical trend data; and (4) "Tuition and mandatory fees" means the charges imposed to attend the relevant institution of higher education as an in-state undergraduate student and all fees required as a condition of enrollment as determined by the board. "Tuition and mandatory fees" does not include fees charged to out-of-state students by institutions of higher education, room and board, or other non-mandatory fees and charges. Added by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 614,s 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
As used in this part:
(1) "Board" means the trustees of the University of Tennessee or a state university board, as applicable;
(2) "Cost of attendance" means the combined cost of tuition, mandatory fees, room and board, books, and other educational expenses as determined by the financial aid office of the postsecondary institution;
(3) "Predictive cost estimate" means a non-binding estimated cost of attending an undergraduate program at the postsecondary institution based on a student's chosen field of study over a four-year period. A predictive cost estimate may include, but is not limited to, potential tuition and mandatory fee increases, projected increases in tuition based on a student's chosen field of study, and historical trend data; and
(4) "Tuition and mandatory fees" means the charges imposed to attend the relevant institution of higher education as an in-state undergraduate student and all fees required as a condition of enrollment as determined by the board. "Tuition and mandatory fees" does not include fees charged to out-of-state students by institutions of higher education, room and board, or other non-mandatory fees and charges.
Added by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 614,s 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-907 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-907
Retirement because of incapacity
Status: in_force

Every teacher in the public schools of a city, town, county or district who has taught in the schools not less than ten (10) years, has contributed for not less than five (5) years annually to the fund, as may be provided under this part, and has become, without the fault of the teacher, mentally or physically incapacitated from such service, may be retired by the school board and become a beneficiary of the fund in the same manner as provided in this part, but such annuity shall cease when the incapacity ceases; however, such incapacity does not include temporary illness. Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 5; Shan., § 1469b5 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a5; Code 1932, § 2529; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1607.
Every teacher in the public schools of a city, town, county or district who has taught in the schools not less than ten (10) years, has contributed for not less than five (5) years annually to the fund, as may be provided under this part, and has become, without the fault of the teacher, mentally or physically incapacitated from such service, may be retired by the school board and become a beneficiary of the fund in the same manner as provided in this part, but such annuity shall cease when the incapacity ceases; however, such incapacity does not include temporary illness.
Acts 1917, ch. 76, § 5; Shan., § 1469b5 (p. 6544); Shan. Supp., § 1469a5; Code 1932, § 2529; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 49-1607.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-10-112 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 10 / Section 49-10-112
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 48, eff. 4/18/2018. Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 10; 1978, ch., 574, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-2958.
Repealed by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 725, s 48, eff. 4/18/2018.
Acts 1972, ch. 839, § 10; 1978, ch., 574, § 8; T.C.A., § 49-2958.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-9-1201 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 9 / Section 49-9-1201
Endowment funds established
Status: in_force

There are established special district 4-H endowment funds in the Tennessee 4-H Club Foundation at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. Acts 1994, ch. 1004, § 1.
There are established special district 4-H endowment funds in the Tennessee 4-H Club Foundation at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.
Acts 1994, ch. 1004, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-5-401 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 5 / Section 49-5-401
Employment and assignment generally
Status: in_force

(a) All educators and other school personnel to be employed for the following school year shall be assigned to the several schools by June 15 next preceding the school year for which those persons are employed. (b) If a sufficient number of educators and other personnel are not available for employment by May 15, the director of schools shall employ and assign to the several schools such educators and other personnel as are necessary to meet the needs and programs authorized by the board of education. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248,s 37, eff. 5/2/2019. Acts 1955, ch. 136, § 17; 1957, ch. 89, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 70-73; 1977, ch. 349, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-1313; Acts 1987, ch. 308, § 22; 1992, ch. 535, § 19; 2000, ch. 903, § 2; 2011, ch. 70, § 1.
(a) All educators and other school personnel to be employed for the following school year shall be assigned to the several schools by June 15 next preceding the school year for which those persons are employed.
(b) If a sufficient number of educators and other personnel are not available for employment by May 15, the director of schools shall employ and assign to the several schools such educators and other personnel as are necessary to meet the needs and programs authorized by the board of education.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 248,s 37, eff. 5/2/2019.
Acts 1955, ch. 136, § 17; 1957, ch. 89, § 1; 1974, ch. 654, §§ 70-73; 1977, ch. 349, § 1; T.C.A., § 49-1313; Acts 1987, ch. 308, § 22; 1992, ch. 535, § 19; 2000, ch. 903, § 2; 2011, ch. 70, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1103 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-1103
STEM leadership training
Status: in_force

TSIN shall implement STEM leadership training in all STEM innovation hubs. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 489,s 1, eff. 5/20/2015.
TSIN shall implement STEM leadership training in all STEM innovation hubs.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 489,s 1, eff. 5/20/2015.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-7-179 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 7 / Section 49-7-179
Foster care youth outreach liaison pilot program
Status: in_force

(a) The department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall establish a foster care youth outreach liaison pilot program at a minimum of five (5) public institutions of higher education. (b) The purpose of the liaison is to serve as: (1) A knowledgeable source of information for youth who are in foster care, participating in extension of foster care, or are former foster youth regarding existing resources at the higher education institution; and (2) A point of contact between the department of children's services and the higher education institution regarding the special needs of these youth in order to increase retention and graduation among this population. (c) The department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall establish the scope and duties of the liaisons in the program, including the requisite qualifications, training, or education for serving as a liaison. A liaison may be an employee of the higher education institution. (d) The pilot program terminates on June 30, 2024. While the program is in effect, the department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall evaluate the success of the program and, on or before January 1, 2024, provide a recommendation to the education committees of the senate and the house of representatives regarding whether the program should be extended or expanded. Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 547,s 2, eff. 5/26/2021.
(a) The department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall establish a foster care youth outreach liaison pilot program at a minimum of five (5) public institutions of higher education.
(b) The purpose of the liaison is to serve as: (1) A knowledgeable source of information for youth who are in foster care, participating in extension of foster care, or are former foster youth regarding existing resources at the higher education institution; and (2) A point of contact between the department of children's services and the higher education institution regarding the special needs of these youth in order to increase retention and graduation among this population.
(1) A knowledgeable source of information for youth who are in foster care, participating in extension of foster care, or are former foster youth regarding existing resources at the higher education institution; and
(2) A point of contact between the department of children's services and the higher education institution regarding the special needs of these youth in order to increase retention and graduation among this population.
(c) The department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall establish the scope and duties of the liaisons in the program, including the requisite qualifications, training, or education for serving as a liaison. A liaison may be an employee of the higher education institution.
(d) The pilot program terminates on June 30, 2024. While the program is in effect, the department of children's services, working jointly with the Tennessee higher education commission, the board of regents, and public institutions of higher education, shall evaluate the success of the program and, on or before January 1, 2024, provide a recommendation to the education committees of the senate and the house of representatives regarding whether the program should be extended or expanded.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 547,s 2, eff. 5/26/2021.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-4007 — TN Code / Title 49 / Chapter 6 / Section 49-6-4007
Posting and distribution of discipline policy or code of conduct
Status: in_force

When a discipline policy or code of conduct has been adopted by a local board of education or charter school governing body, a copy must be posted on the LEA or school website. A copy must also be supplied to all school counselors, teachers, administrative staff, students, and parents. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 958,s 9, eff. 7/1/2018. Acts 1996, ch. 988, § 8; 1999, ch. 367, § 4; T.C.A., § 49-6-4017.
When a discipline policy or code of conduct has been adopted by a local board of education or charter school governing body, a copy must be posted on the LEA or school website. A copy must also be supplied to all school counselors, teachers, administrative staff, students, and parents.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 958,s 9, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 1996, ch. 988, § 8; 1999, ch. 367, § 4; T.C.A., § 49-6-4017.