FAIRVIEW, Tenn. (AP) – Gov. Bill Haslam calls school vouchers "an interesting concept" but says they will not be a part of his education agenda.

The Republican told reporters after a visit to Fairview High School on Thursday that he wants lawmakers to consider changes to teacher tenure and to loosen restrictions on who can attend charter schools.

Haslam argued during the governor's race last year that too many teachers are granted tenure early in their careers. He noted Thursday that other professionals like doctors and lawyers don't enjoy the same level of job protection.

State Rep. Mike Turner of Nashville said fellow Democrats oppose further changes to tenure and charter schools beyond those agreed to by the teacher's union last year to help the state win $500 million in federal Race to the Top grants.

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