Cheatham County Board approves $2,000 teacher-bonus resolution, attorney retainer change and policy revision

The Cheatham County Board of Education on Thursday approved several administrative and personnel actions, including a resolution to accept state funds for $2,000 one-time bonuses for eligible classroom teachers, an amended contract for the board attorney and a second-reading approval of Policy 5.802, which revises qualifications and meeting requirements for the director of schools.

The voucher-related resolution implements section 4 of the Education Freedom Act of 2025''s bonus provision and affirms the board''s intention to participate so that the district may receive state funds to distribute one-time $2,000 bonuses to qualifying public-school classroom teachers. Board members emphasized the resolution does not express support for or opposition to the broader voucher law but simply accepts the bonus funding mechanism described in state statute.

Board chair read the resolution and summarized intent: "This is just simply an opportunity for us to be able to accept this money for our teachers, and basically it's saying that we're going to comply with the state law, which we're required to do," the chair said.

Board members asked whether the bonus would apply to librarians or administrators; the chair said the bonus is restricted to classroom teachers as defined in the statute and does not apply to librarians or administrators.

A roll-call vote on the resolution was unanimous. The board secretary recorded affirmative votes from members present, including Ms. Patrick, Reisen, Harden, Taub and Carter.

On the attorney contract, the board approved an amendment that adjusts the monthly retainer for the board attorney, Alan Woods; the motion to approve the amended contract carried unanimously. Woods clarified most work for the board is not billed hourly because the retainer covers regular advice and consultations for staff and board members.

On the policy revision, the board approved Policy 5.802, Qualifications of the Director of Schools, on second reading. The revision clarifies timing and scope of meetings with the superintendent prior to evaluation periods. The policy passed on a voice vote.

Votes at a glance: - Education Freedom Act (2025) teacher-bonus participation resolution: motion moved, seconded; roll-call vote recorded as unanimous yes. - Attorney contract amendment (board counsel Alan Woods): motion passed by roll-call, unanimous. - Policy 5.802 (Qualifications of the Director of Schools): approved on second reading by voice vote.

Board members said they will forward the signed resolution to the Tennessee Department of Education as required and that district staff will ensure distribution of any received bonus funds consistent with state guidance.

The board also approved a consent agenda and accepted routine budget summaries and quarterly reports; specific items were approved by voice vote.