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SB 2189

Local Education Agencies - As introduced, allows time spent by students in a physical education class to meet physical activity time requirements if the students are physically active in the class; clarifies that physical activity may include structured movement breaks; allows a teacher to prevent a student from participating in unstructured play and to assign activities to students during periods of physical activity to improve or correct student behavior. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee bill allows PE class time to count toward physical activity requirements if students are active and lets teachers restrict play for behavior correction.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Education Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 2189

Legislative bill overview

SB 2189 modifies Tennessee's physical education requirements by allowing time spent in PE classes to count toward mandated physical activity time if students are genuinely active during instruction. The bill also clarifies that structured movement breaks qualify as physical activity and grants teachers authority to restrict students from unstructured play while assigning alternative activities as behavioral corrections.

Why is this important

Physical activity requirements are a key component of childhood health and obesity prevention policies. This bill directly affects how schools can meet state-mandated activity standards and gives teachers new disciplinary tools tied to PE time, potentially impacting both student health outcomes and classroom management practices across Tennessee schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Activity verification concerns: The phrase "physically active in the class" lacks precise definition—schools may interpret this differently, potentially allowing PE classes to count even when student engagement is minimal
  • Behavioral discipline trade-offs: Allowing teachers to restrict unstructured play and assign corrective activities during physical activity time may reduce students' free movement and social development opportunities while serving discipline purposes
  • Equity and accessibility questions: Students with disabilities or different fitness levels may struggle to meet "physically active" standards, and using PE time for behavior correction could disproportionately affect certain student populations

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

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