Bill > SB1719

This bill allows counties and cities in Tennessee to create the position of an elected superintendent of schools if their local legislative body votes to do so by a majority. Currently, school superintendents are appointed, but this change would permit local voters to elect their superintendent, who would then hold the same rights, duties, and powers as an appointed director of schools. If a county or city decides to elect a superintendent while an appointed director's contract is still active, the local government is responsible for fulfilling any remaining contractual obligations to that appointed director, and the local board of education cannot appoint or extend the contract of a new director once the elected office is established, though they can appoint an acting director until an election is held. The state board of education will set minimum qualifications for an elected superintendent, requiring a professional teaching license with principal or supervisor endorsement, a master's degree, and at least five years of combined teaching and administrative experience. Elected superintendents will serve four-year terms and be elected in the August general election, with this provision taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1719&ga=114