Tenn. Code Ann. § 4-3-802: Commissioner - Qualifications - Appointment

(a) The chief executive officer of the department of education shall be the commissioner of education.

(b) The commissioner shall be a person of literary and scientific attainments and of skill and experience in school administration. The commissioner shall also be qualified to teach in the school of the highest standing over which the commissioner has authority.

(c) The commissioner shall be appointed by the governor.