Legislation that would impact UT’s ability to expand dual enrollment offerings to Tennessee high schools is calendared for the Senate Education Committee and House Education Instruction and Programs Subcommittee next week.
The bill prohibits Local Education Agencies (LEAs) from going directly to a public university for any new dual enrollment course offerings. The bill would require LEAs to first offer the opportunity for dual enrollment to the regional community college, then to community colleges generally. If no community college agrees to offer the requested course, only then could an LEA partner with a public university.
The bill carries with it major implications for the University of Tennessee System. For example, at UT Martin, dual enrollment offerings have increased by 278% since 2015. These offerings have increased based on sheer demand for UTM courses. The courses, taught by UTM faculty, have been overwhelmingly popular and have also resulted in increased enrollment at UTM once students graduate from high school.
The legislation, HB2155/SB2078, is sponsored by Rep. David Hawk (R-Greenville) and Rep. Ken Yager (R- Kingston).
Tags: community college, duel enrollment, TCAT