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HB 1888

Teachers, Principals and School Personnel - As introduced, allows the state board of education to waive the educator licensure requirement for an individual who does not hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution, but who has at least five years of teaching experience at a church-related school or private school approved to operate in this state, if the individual meets certain requirements. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee allows education board to waive bachelor's degree requirement for private/church school teachers with 5+ years experience, creating alternative public school educator pathway.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
#principalsandschoolpersonnel #teachers
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Bill Summary · HB 1888

Legislative bill overview

HB 1888 allows Tennessee's state board of education to waive standard educator licensure requirements for individuals lacking a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution, provided they have at least five years of teaching experience at church-related or approved private schools and meet other specified criteria. This creates an alternative pathway to becoming a licensed educator in public schools without the traditional degree requirement.

Why is this important

Tennessee faces documented teacher shortages in certain regions and subject areas. This bill could expand the pool of eligible educators by recognizing practical teaching experience gained outside the traditional credentialing system. However, it directly challenges the current professional standards that typically require bachelor's degrees for public school teaching positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Teacher quality concerns: Critics may argue that bypassing bachelor's degree requirements could lower instructional standards or professional preparation, particularly in pedagogical training, subject matter depth, and education theory
  • Equity and fairness: Existing teachers and those who invested in bachelor's degrees may view this as devaluing their credentials; questions arise about whether private/church school experience provides equivalent preparation to public school requirements
  • Implementation specificity: The bill language references "certain requirements" without detailing what those standards are, raising concerns about consistency, accountability, and whether the state board has adequate guardrails to prevent misuse

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

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