KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Retired public school teachers are expressing strong opposition to a plan proposed by Tennessee’s speaker of the House that would allow teachers to enter the classroom with a two-year associate degree. Currently, teachers in the state must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree.
“I feel like it shows a lack of respect for the profession. And a lack of respect or care for our students. To want less for our children? How can you want less?” Candace Bannister, a retired Knox County educator, said.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton said the proposal is intended to help address a statewide teacher shortage. He says there are about 2,000 teacher vacancies across Tennessee…