School Board Addresses Nurse Need, Teacher Shortage and Rising Diesel Costs at October Meeting
The Hardeman County Board of Education approved several budget amendments, district plans and policy updates during its September 6, 2026, meeting.
Among the budget changes, the district is adding funding for an additional school nurse. Hardeman County Schools Director Dr. Christy Smith said the district currently has nine nurses, but increasing needs among students have created a need for another position.
The district is also using funding to address a shortage of special education teachers. Dr. Smith said private agencies are being used to help find contracted special education teachers as the district continues to face difficulty filling those positions.
Rising fuel costs were another concern discussed during the meeting. Dr. Smith said the district’s diesel bid increased by approximately $1 per gallon from September to October. A diesel and gasoline budget amendment will likely be needed before the end of the year if costs remain elevated.
Other approved expenditures include $25,000 toward a used maintenance truck, $8,520 for new network switches and Wi-Fi access points, safety and camera upgrades, instructional materials, professional development and intervention resources. The district also received a $5,000 TVA robotics grant through its STEM Center.
The board approved its LEA Plan and TISA Accountability Report, which include goals related to English Language Arts and math achievement, ACT performance, graduation rates and reducing chronic absenteeism. The board also approved its annual LEA compliance report and several policy updates.
During the Director’s Report, Dr. Smith highlighted activities throughout the district, including STEM projects, career exploration, agricultural education and other hands-on learning opportunities.
“The one thing you see are opportunities,” Dr. Smith said. “And that’s what it’s all about — providing these students with experiences and opportunities.”
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