Students - As introduced, prohibits local education agencies and public charter schools from suspending or expelling a student enrolled in any of the grades pre-K-2 unless the student's behavior endangers the physical safety of others; authorizes local education agencies and public charter schools to suspend such a student for such behavior for no more than three days if certain measures are taken before the student is suspended. - Amends TCA Title 49.

SB 1161 prohibits Tennessee public schools and charter schools from suspending or expelling students in pre-kindergarten through second grade (pre-K-2) unless their behavior poses a physical safety threat to others. Schools may suspend these students for up to three days only if they first allow time for the student’s emotions to calm, involve school staff to discuss behavior with the student and parent/guardian, and notify parents on the suspension day. The bill directly affects pre-K-2 students and school staff, requiring specific steps before any short-term suspension. It applies to all local education agencies and public charter schools starting with the 2025-2026 school year. The policy aims to limit punitive discipline for young children while prioritizing safety exceptions.