Bill > HB1849

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, and this bill amends existing law to permit this new elective option. If an elected superintendent position is established, the existing contract of an appointed director of schools will not be cut short, and the local government will be responsible for any contractual obligations if they decide to hold an election before the incumbent's contract ends. The bill also specifies that local school boards cannot appoint or extend contracts for directors of schools once an elected superintendent position is created, though they can appoint an acting director until an election is held. The State Board of Education will set minimum qualifications for elected superintendents, requiring a teacher's license with principal or supervisor endorsement, a master's degree, and at least five years of combined teaching and administrative experience. The rights and responsibilities of an appointed director of schools will transfer to an elected superintendent, and these elected officials will serve four-year terms, elected in the August general election, with the new law taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1849&ga=114