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HB 1841

Local Education Agencies - As introduced, adds sixth grade to the grade levels for which a local board of education is required to establish an alternative school for students who have been suspended or expelled from the regular school program; requires a student in sixth grade who has been suspended for more than 10 days or expelled from the regular school program to attend an alternative school if there is space and staff available, with certain exceptions. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee law now requires local school boards to establish alternative schools for sixth graders suspended over 10 days or expelled, subject to space and staffing availability.

Intro., P1C.
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Bill Summary · HB 1841

Legislative bill overview

HB 1841 expands Tennessee's alternative school requirements by mandating that local school boards establish alternative schools for sixth-grade students who face suspension or expulsion, mirroring existing requirements for higher grades. Students suspended for more than 10 days or expelled must attend an alternative school if capacity and staffing permit, with specified exceptions.

Why is this important

This policy addresses how school districts handle disciplinary issues for younger students, potentially affecting thousands of sixth graders across Tennessee annually. It reflects a legislative choice to use alternative schools as a disciplinary intervention tool rather than keeping suspended/expelled students out of school entirely, with implications for both student outcomes and district operational costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and feasibility: Expanding alternative school requirements to sixth grade increases demand on districts with limited budgets and staff; "if space and staff available" language may create inconsistent implementation across wealthy vs. under-resourced districts
  • Effectiveness questions: Research on alternative schools shows mixed results—some studies indicate improved outcomes while others show alternative placements can increase dropout risk, particularly for younger students still developing academically
  • Age appropriateness and proportionality: Concerns exist about whether sixth graders (typically 11-12 years old) should face the same suspension/expulsion consequences as older students, and whether alternative school placement is proportionate to their developmental level and infractions

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

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