TCA § 49-1-102 — Administration generally

The system of public education in this state shall be governed in accordance with laws enacted by the general assembly and under policies, standards, and guidelines adopted by the state board of education that are necessary for the proper operation of public education in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12). The policies, standards and guidelines shall be formulated by the state board of education, with such assistance from the commissioner of education as the state board may request. The commissioner shall perform such duties as are assigned to the commissioner by law and is responsible for the administration, implementation, supervision and enforcement of the policies, standards and guidelines of the state board of education. There shall be a local public school system operated in each county or combination of counties. There may be a local public school system operated in a municipality or special school district. Any local public school system shall be administered by: A local board of education; and A director of schools. In the event the local public school system is a multi-county system, the system shall be administered by an elected nine-member board of education and a director appointed by the board.