by Knox County, TN — The Knox County Board of Education has approved a legislative agenda opposing any mandates that would require public schools in Tennessee to verify students’ immigration status. The board voted 6-3 on Thursday to include this principle, emphasizing that public schools should exist to educate all children without additional administrative burdens.
Proposed Bills in Tennessee Legislature
Two bills introduced during the 2025 General Assembly session aimed to require or allow immigration checks for students:
- Sen. Bo Watson, R-Hixson sponsored a bill that would have mandated immigration status verification.
- Rep. William Lamberth, R-Portland sponsored a bill giving schools the option to conduct checks.
While the Senate passed Watson’s bill, it remains in the House of Representatives and could be revisited when lawmakers return to Nashville in January 2026.
Concerns Over Administrative and Financial Burden
Board members expressed concerns that such checks would shift responsibilities away from instruction and place significant administrative demands on school systems. They cited potential issues regarding cost, staff capacity, and efficient use of educational resources.
Sen. Ferrell Haile, R-Gallatin, opposed the legislation, stating:
“I don’t think punishing children for the wrongdoing of their parents is the proper way to do this. We need to address the issue itself rather than using children as a pawn.”
Sen. Watson, defending the bill, argued it was primarily a financial issue, highlighting a resolution from the Rutherford County School Board that claimed educating non-English speaking students costs $3,500 more per student.
Federal Funding Implications
Analysts warned that passing the bill could jeopardize Tennessee’s federal education funding, which totals approximately $1.1 billion annually. Under a 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision, all students have the right to education regardless of immigration status. Violating federal civil rights laws could place both local school systems and charter schools at risk of losing funds, though the exact amount is undetermined.
Board Emphasizes Education Over Immigration Enforcement
The Knox County Board reiterated that public schools should focus on teaching rather than verifying immigration status, underscoring the importance of protecting access to education for all children in the district.
Have Your Say
Do you believe public schools should be required to check students’ immigration status? Comment below and share your opinion.
