Tennessee lawmakers approve $2,000 teacher bonuses and expand school choice scholarships

The Tennessee House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss significant funding initiatives for K-12 public education and the introduction of school choice scholarships.

A key focus of the meeting was the allocation of a $2,000 bonus for teachers, which will be distributed directly to local education agencies (LEAs). The process requires school boards to vote in favor of directing these funds to teachers, ensuring that the bonuses are effectively implemented. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the state to invest $380 million in K-12 education, with assurances that funding will not decrease in the future.

The committee emphasized a "hold harmless" provision in the bill, which guarantees that no LEA will face reduced funding due to student disenrollment. This measure aims to stabilize financial support for schools, reinforcing the state's commitment to continuous improvement in education funding.

Additionally, the meeting introduced a plan for 20,000 school choice scholarships, marking a significant shift in educational access. Of these, 10,000 scholarships will be available to families earning up to 300% of the poverty level, while the remaining 10,000 will be open to all applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. The committee expressed intent to potentially increase the number of scholarships in future years, depending on demand and legislative decisions.

To ensure accountability, the bill includes provisions for testing scholarship recipients using nationally normed assessments, allowing the state to evaluate the effectiveness of the program in benefiting students.

Overall, the discussions highlighted Tennessee's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and funding, aiming to create a more equitable system for all students across the state.