Education Committee [Source] Translate

The Senate Education Committee meeting began with roll call, confirming a quorum with eight members present. Senator Pote introduced Dr. Beth Myers from the Wilson County school board, and the committee welcomed representatives from Ed Trust. Important deadlines for bill submissions for the 2026 session were announced, with the final day for placing bills on notice set for March 3rd at 3 p.m. The order of budget hearings was determined by a random draw. Tennessee State University (TSU) was the first to present, with President Dwayne Tucker discussing the university's $1.2 million baseline budget request, a $1 million land grant match, and additional funds for salary and health insurance increases. He emphasized initiatives to enhance student experience, including campus safety improvements and housing capacity, noting a current occupancy rate of 70% for 3,500 beds. Concerns about enrollment were raised, with a target of 1,200 students for the fall 2026 freshman class. The discussion also covered cybersecurity needs and the minimal impact of a recent ice storm. The committee unanimously passed a motion to move TSU's budget to finance. The University of Tennessee (UT) was next, with President Randy Boyd highlighting a 20% increase in enrollment to 65,000 students and improvements in retention and graduation rates. Boyd introduced the UT Promise program for tuition-free education for families earning under $75,000 and discussed partnerships to develop a nuclear workforce and integrate artificial intelligence training. Senator Hale raised concerns about a $2.14 million shortfall for non-formula units at the UT Health Science Center. Boyd confirmed that a new building would increase the number of medical students and healthcare professionals produced by 30% over five years. The committee expressed pride in the university's veterinary program and approved a formal letter requesting the $2.14 million in recurring funds. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) President Sidney McPhee presented budget needs, including a $4 million allocation for capital maintenance and a $25 million supplemental request for the Quantum Initiative. MTSU's partnerships in workforce training were discussed, along with housing challenges, as the waiting list for dorms increased significantly. The meeting also covered Austin Peay State University and Tennessee Tech University, with discussions on their growth, funding needs, and partnerships for workforce development. Concerns about housing and program expansions were raised, particularly regarding the National Security Studies program and the aviation science program. The University of Memphis was introduced next, with President Bill Hargrave discussing the university's budget and the need for funding to address deferred maintenance. The meeting concluded with a motion to move the University of Memphis budget to finance. The committee then discussed Senate Bill 2423, aimed at phasing out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in school nutrition programs, which passed after an amendment was adopted. Other bills related to food safety, arts education, and educational support programs were also discussed and received favorable votes. The meeting concluded with discussions on amendments to bills regarding private school student participation in public school athletics and teacher waivers for public school positions. House Joint Resolution 91, supporting Tennessee's participation in the Crisis Recovery Network, was also passed. The meeting adjourned after a motion was approved.