Local Education Agency and Public Charter School Waiver Requests

Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-201(d), a local education agency (LEA) may request a waiver of any state board rule or statute that hinders the LEA’s ability to achieve its goals or carry out its mission. The request must be submitted to the commissioner of education.

Similarly, Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-13-111 allows public charter schools to request waivers from either their authorizer or the commissioner for rules or statutes that interfere with meeting their goals or mission.

Before submitting a waiver request, LEAs and public charter schools should review the Local Education Agency and Public Charter School Waiver Guidance. This guidance outlines the submission process, required documentation, and helps ensure clarity and consistency.

To submit a waiver, send a completed General Waiver Request Form or Natural Disaster Waiver Request Application, if appropriate, to Education.Waivers@tn.gov.

Once reviewed by the commissioner, the LEA or charter school, and the charter’s authorizer, will receive written notification of the decision. Unless otherwise noted, approved waivers are valid for one year.