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SB 689

Education - As enacted, requires the Tennessee higher education commission (THEC), to serve as the governing board of directors for the Tennessee student assistance corporation; requires THEC's review committee to aid in the development or revision of state financial aid; terminates the Tennessee teaching scholars program; terminates the minority teaching fellows program. - Amends TCA Title 4 and Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Consolidates Tennessee student aid governance under THEC while eliminating minority teacher recruitment and teaching scholars programs effective July 2025.

Pub. Ch. 234
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Bill Summary · SB 689

Legislative bill overview

SB 689 consolidates higher education governance by transferring the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) under the direct control of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). The bill simultaneously eliminates two teacher recruitment programs: the Tennessee Teaching Scholars Program and the Minority Teaching Fellows Program.

Why is this important

This legislation restructures how Tennessee manages state financial aid distribution and teacher workforce development. The consolidation could streamline decision-making but removes dedicated funding mechanisms for recruiting teachers from underrepresented groups during a period of documented teacher shortages nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Program elimination: Terminating minority-focused teacher recruitment may reduce pipeline initiatives during a critical shortage of educators from underrepresented backgrounds, potentially affecting classroom diversity and retention of underrepresented teachers
  • Governance consolidation: Merging TSAC into THEC centralizes control and could affect independent decision-making on student aid policies, potentially subordinating loan/grant programs to broader commission priorities
  • Implementation impact: Existing beneficiaries of the terminated teaching programs face uncertain transition arrangements; the July 1, 2025 effective date provides limited runway for affected students and institutions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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