Tennessee's school buildings are aging, with an average age of 50 years. The state needs to act more to assist school districts with capital projects. Residents should only bear part of the cost after years of state neglect on this issue. We can only delay addressing this situation for so long.
In fact, Tennessee schools require approximately $10 billion for repairs and upgrades over the next five years. A recent review by the Comptroller indicates that 57 percent of school buildings are in good or excellent condition. However, this also means that 43 percent need repairs.
Building age, maintenance standards, temperature, lighting, noise, and air quality affect students’ health, safety, and psychological well-being. Additionally, high-quality facilities enhance community perceptions and support for public education.
Building new schools and renovating those in poor condition entails significant costs. These include renovations and technology costs of $5.4 billion, funding for new schools and additions totaling $3.6 billion, and constructing 70 new schools at $42 million each.
Two primary factors drive capital expenditures by local school systems: normal wear and tear on K12 school buildings and facilities and community growth. Some school systems feel the pressure from only one source, while others experience both.
In Tennessee, local revenues, including bonds and property taxes, predominantly fund K-12 capital spending. The state does provide some funding for K-12 capital projects through the new TISA funding formula, but this amount is minimal and can only stretch so far.
States typically have three methods to support K-12 infrastructure needs: appropriations, financing assistance, and dedicated revenues. While Tennessee utilizes appropriations and financing assistance, it does not allocate dedicated revenues for K-12 capital expenditures as other states do.
The state could finance school capital projects by utilizing sales and use taxes, excise taxes, lottery revenue, and proceeds from the sale of state lands for school construction. However, sports betting revenue could also be allocated to support construction efforts.
The condition of school facilities significantly impacts student behavior and performance. Research shows that students in newer, well-maintained buildings score higher on standardized tests than those in poorer facilities. As a result, many states are focusing on funding for improving school infrastructure in their education reform efforts.
Policymakers must prioritize improving school facilities, as neglecting these environments undermines broader efforts to enhance K-12 education. Urgent action is necessary to ensure every student has a conducive learning environment.
JC Bowman
Executive Director of Professional Educators of Tennessee