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SB 753

Local Education Agencies - As enacted, authorizes LEAs to enroll LEAs' employees' children into the voluntary pre-kindergarten program if space is available after enrollment of at-risk children; authorizes LEAs to charge the employee tuition and fees for such enrollment. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Yager

Tennessee LEAs can enroll employees' children in pre-K programs if space remains after at-risk enrollment, with agencies charging tuition to offset costs.

Pub. Ch. 225
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Bill Summary · SB 753

Legislative bill overview

SB 753 allows Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in Tennessee to enroll their own employees' children in voluntary pre-kindergarten programs, but only after all at-risk children have been accommodated. LEAs can charge tuition and fees for this employee benefit, creating a revenue stream while providing a workplace perk.

Why is this important

Pre-K access directly affects early childhood development and school readiness, particularly for disadvantaged populations. This policy prioritizes at-risk children's enrollment while opening a secondary benefit for district employees, potentially improving staff recruitment and retention. It also generates revenue for LEAs through tuition charges on a typically limited resource.

Potential points of contention

  • Equity concerns: Employees gain priority access to a public program after at-risk populations, potentially creating a two-tiered system where public benefits serve workforce incentives
  • Capacity and intent: Pre-K programs have limited spots; using available capacity for employee children rather than expanding at-risk enrollment may underserve the populations most needing intervention
  • Cost burden on employees: While framed as a benefit, charging tuition means employees still pay for access, limiting its value compared to fully subsidized pre-K programs in other states

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

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