Tenn. Governor To Sign Long-Awaited School-Reform Bill

By Lonnie Harp

Ending two years of debate and frequent frustration, Gov. Ned McWherter of Tennessee this week will sign a comprehensive education-reform bill after approving a temporary tax increase to pay for it.

The education legislation, which closely resembles a package Mr. McWherter put forth more than a year ago, will reduce the funding gap between rich and poor school districts in the state while also making a number of changes in school governance and curriculum.

One of the most controversial parts of the bill will phase out Tennessee's practice of electing some local school superintendents by the...