Tennessee lawmakers
Coverage of Tennessee lawmakers in the Nexus archive.
- Tennessee lawmakers push for teacher misconduct reforms after Nashville firing
Tennessee lawmakers are reviewing legislation to address teacher misconduct after a Metro Nashville teacher was fired for using AI to alter student images into inappropriate videos. A Department of Education survey found over 11% of students experience sexual misconduct from staff, with recent cases in Montgomery and Sumner counties. Proposals aim to increase transparency to prevent misconduct-prone teachers from being rehired in other districts.
- Tennessee lawmakers plan new educator misconduct legislation after Nashville teacher’s firing
Tennessee lawmakers plan new legislation to address educator misconduct and AI misuse in schools following the firing of a Nashville teacher accused of altering student images and videos with AI. The proposed measures aim to expand accountability and reporting requirements for school employees, building on existing laws prohibiting educator-student relationships and enhancing penalties for grooming behavior.
- Tennessee lawmakers eye stronger student protections, educator accountability
Tennessee lawmakers plan to strengthen protections for students and increase accountability for educators who engage in misconduct. The proposed measures aim to enhance student safety and address educator misconduct.
- Trial for man accused of murdering Alyssa Lokits on Antioch greenway set for next month
Paul Park's trial for the murder of Dr. Alyssa Lokits on the Mill Creek Greenway in Antioch is set for August 10 after a judge denied a request for a delay. Park faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted rape for the October 2024 shooting.
- Tennessee approves $356M increase for voucher vendor contract despite concerns
Tennessee lawmakers approved a $356 million increase to the state’s contract with the company administering private school vouchers, despite concerns. The decision involves expanding funding for the voucher program administered by an unspecified vendor.
- Shelby County government sues Tennessee lawmakers over school board takeover law
Shelby County government sued Tennessee lawmakers in federal court over a law replacing the locally elected Memphis Shelby County Schools board with a state-appointed one. The lawsuit alleges violations of equal protection clauses in the U.S. and Tennessee constitutions, arguing the law removes local control over education decisions.
- Chattanooga airport board sues to stop state takeover
The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority has sued the state to block a new law allowing state lawmakers to appoint members to local airport boards. Nashville's airport authority also filed a lawsuit, citing a 2024 FAA law that prohibits state takeovers when boards object. The legislation, which affects five Tennessee airports, grants appointment powers to the governor, legislative leaders, and local mayors.