Tennessee leaders will review a proposed bill giving local leaders authority over schools’ emergency operations.

Sen. Brian Kelsey, a Germantown Republican, filed the bill Monday, Jan. 11 ahead of the 112th General Assembly convening. Rep. Kevin Vaughan, R-Collierville, will file the corresponding House bill.

School districts look ahead to Tennessee legislative session

The bill says school boards should have authority to make decisions in such emergencies. Public health authorities may be consulted, but ultimately the decision lies with the local district’s elected leaders.

“This bill seeks to clarify that duly elected local school boards are the ultimate decision makers when it comes to the operation of their schools,” Vaughan, who previously served on Collierville Schools board of education, said in a release.

Bartlett Board of Education Chairman David Cook said the state Senate bill was slightly confusing saying if the governor mandates closures, local districts can decide for themselves. However, under the bill if the governor mandates they open they must do so. 

He said “both sides of the coin” should be part of the bill.

Vaughan noted the bill will be heavily vetted and if clarification is needed, it can be amended with input from other leaders.

Over the summer, as schools grappled with various return-to-school approaches, Collierville changed plans several times at the direction of the Shelby County Health Department. Vaughan said in a text message the bill would allow Collierville to rely on its best plans in emergencies.

“I think our board needs to have the authority. It’s what we have been elected to do – to make decisions as it relates to our children,” Wright Cox, Collierville Schools board chairman, said. “I am elected to Collierville School Board to act in best interest of Collierville students … That’s what we are elected to do, and that’s what the bill says.”

He said he wants “all the information” before making decisions though and consulting with people like the Health Department can help him make the best decision, but the authority should lie with the elected.

“Mandated directives should only come from elected leaders who are accountable to the people they serve,” Kelsey said in the release. “Our school boards, administrators, teachers and parents are equipped to make informed decisions on how to keep our schools safe by utilizing guidance from organizations such as local health boards.”

Jerica Philips, Shelby County Schools public information officer, said it is “reinforcement” of what the largest district in Tennessee is already doing. She said the Shelby County Health Department has been a “partner” as they navigate the pandemic.

“I do believe it provides clarification on everybody’s role, and I believe that’s helpful,” Kevin Floyd, Lakeland School System chairman, said. 

He said the district still welcomes the advice of local and state health leaders, but he appreciates knowing the ultimate decision lies with the elected officials as there was some confusion over the summer.