Laws Affecting the 2023-2024 Tennessee School Year

Several laws passed by the Tennessee General Assembly affect students in this school year. Here is a brief overview of them.

Assistance for deaf students

HB0435/SB0004 created a “deaf mentor and parent advisor program to assist families in implementing bilingual and bicultural home-based programming for children who are deaf, hard of hearing or deaf-blind.” The goal is to prevent learning gaps, ensure equal access, and give these children a mentor/role model.

Course credit for high school students

Under HB0962/SB0838, schools can award high school students credit for a course if the student earns a “qualifying score” on the course’s final exam without requiring the student to enroll in the class. A student can earn up to four graduation credits from separate exams.

Sports safety requirements

Bill HB0457/SB0773 encourages “coaches of school athletic activities to annually complete training in physical conditioning and training equipment use and to rehearse an emergency action plan, which includes” participating in a concussion and head injury and safety program, and receiving training in CPR and related activities.

Corporal punishment changes

HB0995/SB0972 prohibits using corporal punishment on a student with a disability. In addition, teachers are required to take a certain action (and document them) before administering corporal punishment.

Teaching licenses for veterans

HB0786/SB0724, veterans can receive an occupational teacher’s license or temporary permit to teach in an unfilled position. Veterans must have a high school diploma, possess military training or related experience, and complete a certification.

Prohibiting “implicit bias training”

HB0158/SB0102 prevents “local education agencies, public charter schools, public institutions of higher education, the state board of education and the department of education from requiring teachers or other faculty members to complete ‘implicit bias training.’” The law also prohibits employers from retaliation if an employee refuses to participate in implicit bias training.

Immunization requirements for home-schooled students

HB0252/SB0644 removes the requirements for immunization of home-schooled students, as well as “receipt of health services or examinations generally required by law to the local education agency.” However, if a student wants to participate in extracurricular activities, proof that the student has received the proper health services can be required.

Selling “obscene matter” to schools

This law, HB0841/SB1059, makes it a felony “for a book publisher, distributor or seller to knowingly sell or distribute ‘obscene matter’ to a public school serving any of the grades K-12. A Class E felony carries a sentence of one to six years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $3,000.” Per the bill, “a person who violates this amendment’s prohibition will additionally be fined at least $10,000, but not more than $100,000.”

How our Nashville education law attorney can help protect your rights

Education law attorneys can help protect your rights in a variety of ways, including:

• Representing you in disputes with schools or school districts. This could include disputes over special education services, discipline, bullying, and other issues.
• Advising you on your legal rights and options. This could include helping you understand the law, develop a legal strategy, and prepare for a hearing or trial.
• Negotiating on your behalf. Education law attorneys can negotiate with schools and school districts on your behalf to try to reach a resolution that is in your or your child’s best interests.
• Filing lawsuits on your behalf. If necessary, education law attorneys can file lawsuits on your behalf to protect your rights.

Attorney Perry Craft can also help with a variety of educational legal issues and disputes, including:

• If you have a child with special needs, navigating the complexities of the special education system can be overwhelming. Our attorney specializes in advocating for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the appropriate services and accommodations required by law. We can help you navigate the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, address any disputes with school districts, and work to secure the best educational outcomes for your child.
• Our education law attorney is well-versed in federal and state laws, including Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. If you or your child has experienced discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics, we can provide legal representation and pursue justice on your behalf.
• If your child is facing disciplinary actions, suspension, or expulsion from school, our attorney can help protect their rights throughout the process. We can review the circumstances of the disciplinary action, ensure proper procedures are followed, and advocate for a fair and just resolution.
• Finally, our attorneys stays informed about the latest developments in education policy. Even if you’re not currently facing a legal issue, our education law attorney is available for consultation and guidance. We can provide advice on educational decisions, review documents, and help you understand your rights within the educational sy

Are you facing educational challenges or legal issues in Nashville? Our experienced education law attorney is here to be your advocate and protector of your educational rights. Don’t let discrimination, special education disputes, school discipline problems, or any other educational concerns hinder your or your child’s academic journey.

At the Law Office of Perry A. Craft, PLLC, our dedicated attorney has a deep understanding of education law and a proven track record of helping students and families navigate complex educational matters. We’re committed to ensuring that you receive the quality education and fair treatment you deserve. To schedule a consultation, call our Nashville offices or fill out our contact form today.