News

The Tennessee Department of Education has announced the 2024-25 statewide graduation rate is 92.3 percent, breaking the previous record achieved in the 2023-24 school year at 92.1 percent. “Year-over-year gains in the statewide graduation rate exemplify Tennessee’s commitment to ensuring students across the state make it to the graduation stage prepared for success after high school,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. ”Districts’ schools and public charters will continue using proven best practices and working with families to support students as they embark on their future endeavors.” For the 2024-25 school year, the most notable takeaways from graduation data include the following:  1,892 more students graduated in the 2025 cohort compared to last year, for a total of 69,124 students graduating across the state. Benton County Schools, Clay County Schools, Fentress County Schools, Greene County Schools, Milan Special School District, Richard City Special School District, Smith County Schools, and Tennessee School for the Deaf are the top nine districts that had a graduation rate over 99 percent. Eighty-two districts graduated 95 percent or more of their students on time. Sixty-nine districts improved their graduation rates from 2024 to 2025, with eight districts improving by five percentage points or more. The Students with Disabilities student group demonstrated a three-percentage point increase in their graduation rate from 81 percent in 2023-24 to 84 percent in 2024-25. Sixty-eight schools finished the year with over a 99 percent graduation rate. Twenty-nine districts finished the year with over a 99 percent graduation rate for at least one of the following student groups: English Learners, Black, Hispanic, Native American, Economically Disadvantaged, and Students with Disabilities. Cannon County High School’s graduation rate was higher than the state average at 92.4 percent. To advance academic achievement and prepare students for postsecondary success, districts continue to offer summer programming and tutoring supports for additional learning time, innovative college and career exploration, and access to early postsecondary opportunities. For more information on graduation rates for individual districts and schools, please visit the department’s Data Downloads webpage.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) is once again calling on citizens across the state to lend a hand in restoring one of Tennessee’s most highly valued native trees — the white oak.

The Tennessee White Oak Initiative, an acorn collection project, is a cooperative effort among TDF, TDF’s East Tennessee Nursery, the University of Tennessee Extension, and the Tennessee Forestry Association.

“This initiative is part of a large-scale effort to address the dropping rates of white oak regrowth in Tennessee’s forests,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “White oaks are a critical part of Tennessee’s forests and play an invaluable role in our ecosystems and economies. What is unique about this particular initiative is that it is open to everyone – you don’t have to own wooded land to help collect acorns that will become the giant oaks of the future.”

Each fall, the East Tennessee Nursery in Polk County grows thousands of white oak seedlings that supplement natural regeneration in forests statewide. However, in recent years, seed suppliers have struggled to meet the nursery’s demand. Now in its fifth year, the acorn collection project helps close that gap by sourcing acorns directly from local trees — often yielding hardier, higher-quality seedlings.

TDF invites individuals, families, civic organizations, youth groups, and landowners to take part in this hands-on conservation effort. Participants can learn how to identify, collect, and deliver acorns by visiting White Oak Acorn Collection Initiative in Tennessee. The collection season runs through Nov. 15, 2025.

For guidance on tree identification, proper collection methods, storage and delivery of acorns, interested participants should contact their local TDF area forester. Find your area forester online at Tennessee Forestry Staff.

The Division of Forestry protects and promotes the responsible use of forest resources in Tennessee. Focus areas include assisting landowners with a variety of services, providing quality tree seedlings, supporting forest health programs, collecting forest inventory data, assisting forest industries, and fighting wildland fires. Visit Tennessee State Forests for more information.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) mobile household hazardous waste collection service will be in Rutherford County on Saturday, October 25.

Tennesseans are encouraged to bring household hazardous waste – including cleaning fluids, pesticides, swimming pool chemicals, and more – to the designated drop-off locations. A person does not need to live in the county to participate.

“This collection service provides an excellent way to responsibly dispose of household hazardous waste, and we want to make it as convenient as possible,” said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. “We welcome all Tennesseans to take advantage of this opportunity to show their commitment to environmental protection.”

Drop-off Location: Rutherford County

• Murfreesboro Solid Waste Department, 4765 Florence Rd., Murfreesboro, 8 a.m.-noon. The contact is Bishop Wagener at (615) 295-9716.

Since the program’s inception in 1993, more than 383,000 Tennessee households have properly disposed of more than 25 million pounds of material. There have been over 1,500 one-day collection events.

Household hazardous waste materials are considered flammable, toxic, reactive and/or corrosive and should not be placed with regular garbage. Typical items to dispose of include cleaning fluids, pesticides, mercury thermometers and thermostats, fluorescent lamps, lithium and button batteries, aerosols, adhesives, medications, brake fluid, swimming pool chemicals, paint thinner, and used needles in sturdy containers. Items not accepted include ammunition, explosives, alkaline batteries, paint, electronics, and any empty containers that should be disposed in normal trash. There is no cost or appointment necessary for household hazardous waste collection.

While household hazardous waste may be disposed for free, there is a cost for disposal of Very Small Quantity Generator Waste (i.e. wastes from non-household sources such as businesses, schools, farms, churches, etc.). An appointment is also necessary. Call (615) 643-3170 to request a price quote and schedule an appointment.

Many counties and municipalities meet the needs of local residents by providing collection of batteries, oil, paint, antifreeze and electronic scrap – or BOPAE, as it is sometimes called. When handled correctly, these BOPAE materials are minimally hazardous, but inappropriate for collection at household hazardous waste events. Tennesseans are encouraged to contact their local city or county solid waste department to find BOPAE collection sites in their area.

When transporting materials to the site, place containers in sturdy boxes lined with newspaper or plastic to prevent spills and cross-contamination in the trunk of a car or back of a truck. Be sure to keep materials away from children and pets.

For more information on the household hazardous waste mobile collection service, please visit Household Hazardous Waste Program online.

As Tennessee enters its annual wildfire season during National Fire Prevention Week, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) reminds residents to burn safely and responsibly. Beginning October 15, anyone burning leaves or natural debris must obtain a free burn permit from TDF.

“Tennessee experiences about 1,000 wildland fires each year, burning roughly 18,000 acres, and more than 90% are caused by humans,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “With extra debris from Hurricane Helene, there’s more fuel for fires this season. Getting a burn permit, burning safely, and avoiding risky activity can greatly reduce wildfire danger.”

Burn permits help TDF communicate when and where it is safe to burn. Permits are only issued when it is safe to burn.

Burn permits are free and available at www.BurnSafeTN.org or by using the MyTN mobile app. Online permits are issued 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time. Always obtain a permit on the day you intend to burn any size leaf, brush, or debris pile or conduct prescribed fires. Burning without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor. Leaving a fire unattended is a Class B misdemeanor, and fires must be fully extinguished by the permit’s expiration.

Residents with limited internet access may call 877-350-BURN (2876) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Central. Online applications are encouraged due to high call volume.

Citizens inside city limits should check local regulations before burning. Residents are also encouraged to explore non-burning options for disposing of storm or yard debris. For information about burning restrictions and materials that are illegal to burn, visit the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation at www.tn.gov/environment/air/open-burning.html. Call 1-888-891-TDEC to report illegal burning.

Visit www.BurnSafeTN.org for tips to burn safely and to protect your community and follow @TNWildlandFire on social media.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) program until Oct. 31, 2025. Departments may apply for VFA wildland fire suppression kits to supplement their department’s wildland firefighting capacity.

“Volunteer fire departments are critical when it comes to wildland fire suppression in Tennessee and are often the first responders on the scene,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “We are proud to invest in the fire departments that serve as valuable partners in protecting Tennessee’s people, communities, and infrastructure.”

Last year, TDF allocated $165,000 in federal funds to provide wildland fire suppression kits to 85 volunteer fire departments across the state. The kits consist of personal protective equipment, tools, and other supplies, with a total value of approximately $3,000. Kits will be awarded in February 2026.

Volunteer fire departments serving communities with populations of 10,000 or fewer are eligible to apply for the program. Fire departments must have a current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TDF dated after June 30, 2019.

Departments wishing to establish an MOU should contact the Assistant District Forester for Fire in their district. Visit www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/staff for a list of forestry staff.

More information and the application for applying to the VFA program can be found online at www.tn.gov/tnwildlandfire/suppression/vfa.   

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) today announced that the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open for all Tennessee students. Students and their families can begin applying at www.fafsa.gov.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is online and available, marking the earliest launch in the program’s history.

“Finishing your FAFSA is a crucial step for Tennessee students and families in making college possible,” said Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director. “We encourage every student and family to take this first step, get started as soon as possible and access the financial aid available to them.”

Completing the FAFSA is the required first step to access a wide range of financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant, the Tennessee Promise scholarship, and the HOPE Scholarship. Families should have financial documents such as tax returns and W-2 forms on hand when filling out the application.

To support students and families, THEC leads TN FAFSA Frenzy, a Path to College event that provides students and families with step-by-step instructions, video guides, and other free FAFSA resources available at CollegeforTN.org/FAFSA.

From October through April 1, 2026, schools and community organizations across Tennessee will also host TN FAFSA Frenzy completion events, providing hands-on assistance to students and parents. By offering clear guidance and support, THEC and its partners aim to help families maximize eligibility for federal and state financial aid, making college more attainable for every student in the state.

Last year, students in Tennessee ranked #1 in the nation for FAFSA completion, according to the National College Attainment Network. With a record 75.7% completion rate among Tennessee Promise applicants, the state continues to set the standard in ensuring Tennessee students access aid.

Each year, THEC recognizes high schools across the state through the TN FAFSA Challenge, which highlights schools with outstanding completion rates or significant improvement. A list of 2024–25 FAFSA Champion schools is available at CollegeforTN.org.

For more information and to begin your FAFSA application, visit www.fafsa.gov.

Governor Bill Lee has officially declared October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Tennessee. According to the 2024 TBI Crime in Tennessee Report, 60,495 domestic violence victims were reported in the state last year. The full report can be viewed here:  TBI Annual Report 2023-2024.

The Office of Criminal Justice Programs (OCJP) provides state and federal funding to support domestic violence services through 105 grants throughout Tennessee. These programs provide information and referrals, counseling, advocacy, court advocacy and shelter/transitional housing to those experiencing domestic violence in Tennessee. OCJP grants include funding to 13 Family Justice Centers located in Anderson, Claiborne, Davidson, Hamilton, Haywood, Henderson, Knox, Madison, Overton, Putnam, Scott, Sullivan, and Washington Counties. The Family Justice Centers play a vital role in coordinating with domestic violence shelters, law enforcement, the courts, and other partnering victim services agencies.

“Every day, Tennessee’s domestic violence shelters and Family Justice Centers offer safety and essential resources to survivors across the state,” said OCJP Director Jennifer Brinkman. “It is the dedication of advocates in these programs that makes a difference—guiding victims toward safety, healing, and hope. I am deeply grateful for their commitment to ending the cycle of abuse.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the 24-hour statewide hotline at 1-800-356-6767. 

The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) has announced updates to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) following the passage of HR 1 in July 2025.

Upon implementation, the work requirements for the SNAP Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) will require customers to follow certain work rules to maintain SNAP eligibility.  The updated ABAWD work rules will apply if adults:

• Are between 18 and under 65 years old;
• Do not have a disability; and
• Do not live withchildren under 14.

ABAWD customers may only receive SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period unless they:

• Work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program at least 20 hours a week (80 hours a month).

ABAWD customers may lose SNAP benefits after three months if they do not adhere to the updated ABAWD work requirements.

“We want to ensure Tennesseans who may be impacted by these federal changes are fully informed and prepared to make any necessary adjustments,” commented TDHS Commissioner Clarence H. Carter. “Our priority is to support our customers with the resources they need to comply with the updated requirements while maintaining access to vital nutrition assistance.”

Some customers are excluded from ABAWD work requirements and may still receive SNAP benefits if they are:

• Under the age of 18
• Are 65 years of age or older
• Are pregnant
• Work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program at least 80 hours a month
• Live with a child under 14
• Care for someone who is sick or disabled
• Get disability benefits like Social Security, SSI, or VA
• Have a health problem or temporary disability that keeps them from working
• Enrolled in school at least half-time
• In a drug or alcohol treatment program
• Receive unemployment benefits

Customers who believe they qualify for an exemption are encouraged to upload their verification documents via the One DHS Customer Portal (https://onedhs.tn.gov/csp) no later than October 31, 2025.

For additional details, including exemption criteria and resources, please visit the TDHS ABAWD information page at: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/snap-abawd-information.html.

As part of an ongoing I-24 resurfacing project, Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) contract crews will conduct concrete deck repairs on the bridge over the Duck River near mile marker 110 this weekend, weather permitting.

I-24 West Closure – September 19–22, 2025:

Beginning Friday, September 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM through Monday, September 22, 2025, at 6:00 AM local time, contract crews will close the right lane of I-24 West and the I-24 West entrance ramp at the Exit 110 interchange.

Drivers should expect increased traffic through Manchester as interstate traffic detours around the work zone during this closure. Drivers should use caution when traveling through the area during these times and expect delays. Drivers should check TDOT SmartWay for real-time traffic updates and lane closure alerts. This work is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOT’s motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departure. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on the phone while driving. For the latest updates, visit the TDOT SmartWay Map or dial 511 for statewide travel information.

Tennessee’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles. Violation of this law can result in up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

 Tennessee’s unemployment rate held steady last month at 3.6%, seven-tenths of a percentage point below the national rate, according to data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD).

The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in August was unchanged from the previous month. The rate was also 3.6% in August 2024.

Tennessee’s unemployment rate continues to track well below the U.S. rate, which was 4.3% in August. The U.S. rate was 4.2% in July and in August 2024.

Between July and August 2025, total nonfarm employment across the state increased by 9,500 jobs. The largest increases were in the transportation, warehousing, and utilities sector, followed by the retail trade and construction sectors.

Over the past year, Tennessee employers added 34,400 jobs, with the biggest gains in government, the professional and business services sector, and leisure and hospitality.

TDLWD has compiled an analysis of the August 2025 unemployment data.

September is Workforce Development Month, recognizing the invaluable role of workforce programs and professionals in driving economic growth.

In Tennessee, the 33-member State Workforce Development Board is responsible for advising the governor on workforce policy and investments in training programs. The board brings together employers, educators, labor representatives, and government leaders to strengthen Tennessee’s talent pipeline to meet employer needs.