The Tennessee State Board of Education meeting on August 15, 2025, highlighted significant discussions around physical education and career and technical education (CTE) standards, with a focus on enhancing student engagement and preparing them for future careers.

A key topic was the flexibility in physical activity requirements for students. Board members discussed the challenges of ensuring 40 minutes of free playtime during adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or cold temperatures. It was emphasized that local districts have the discretion to adapt these requirements based on their specific circumstances. "Teachers have become very creative on getting kids physically active throughout the school day in their classrooms," one member noted, underscoring the importance of maintaining physical activity even when outdoor play is not feasible.

Another significant change discussed was the alteration of language regarding physical education requirements for middle and high school students. The board previously "strongly encouraged" local education agencies (LEAs) to provide physical education at least twice a week, but this was changed to "may provide." Some board members expressed concern over this shift, advocating for a return to the stronger encouragement to ensure students receive adequate physical education. The board plans to revisit this language before final approval.

In addition to physical education, the meeting also covered updates to CTE standards. Deborah Knoll, assistant commissioner of post-secondary workforce CTE and military readiness, presented revised core standards for various career clusters, including healthcare and agriculture. New courses, such as Agriscience Technologies and Precision Agriculture, were introduced to align with industry needs and enhance students' career readiness. Board members praised the importance of these updates, particularly given the agricultural sector's significant economic impact in Tennessee.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the course access program, which faced challenges due to low participation rates. Changes to the program were proposed, including the removal of certain reporting requirements, as interest in the program has waned. Board members raised questions about the effectiveness of the program and how it differs from existing virtual courses offered by LEAs.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a commitment to improving physical education and career readiness for Tennessee students, with ongoing evaluations and adjustments to policies aimed at fostering a more engaging and relevant educational experience.