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HB 1960

Education - As introduced, changes, from the department of education to the state board of education upon the recommendation of the department, the party responsible for selecting the intervention option for priority schools receiving tier three interventions through the progressive tiered intervention system. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Scott Cepicky

Shifts authority for selecting interventions at lowest-performing Tennessee schools from the Department of Education to the State Board of Education.

Placed on cal. Education Committee for 3/24/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 1960

Legislative bill overview

HB 1960 transfers decision-making authority for selecting intervention options for low-performing "priority schools" from the Tennessee Department of Education to the State Board of Education, though the Department would still make recommendations. This applies specifically to schools receiving the most intensive level (Tier Three) of interventions under Tennessee's progressive tiered intervention system.

Why is this important

This represents a shift in governance structure for school accountability, moving power from the executive branch (Department of Education) to the quasi-legislative State Board of Education. The decision affects which interventions are imposed on struggling schools, potentially influencing school operations, leadership changes, curriculum decisions, and local control vs. state oversight dynamics.

Potential points of contention

  • Local vs. State Control: Whether state-level boards should override departmental expertise in selecting school interventions, and how this affects local school district autonomy
  • Accountability and Expertise: Questions about whether Board members have sufficient on-the-ground expertise to select appropriate interventions compared to career education department staff
  • Political Considerations: Concerns that a political board appointment might influence intervention decisions differently than career professionals would recommend

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

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