Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB0838

Introduced

1/30/23

Engrossed

4/4/23

Enrolled

4/14/23

Passed

4/28/23

Chaptered

5/3/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to secondary education.

Impact

The bill could have a considerable impact on the way high school credits are awarded in Tennessee. By permitting students to earn credits via comprehensive assessments for courses not attended, the bill seeks to recognize and validate learning that occurs outside traditional classroom settings. This approach may lead to higher graduation rates and provide more pathways for academic achievement. However, it also brings changes to administrative responsibilities for LEAs, which must align their policies with the new requirements, including reporting on the implementation and outcomes of credit exams.

Summary

Senate Bill 0838 proposes significant amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically in Title 49 regarding secondary education. The bill introduces provisions that allow local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools to grant high school credit for eligible courses based on credit exams. These exams are designed to align with Tennessee academic standards and can be taken by students in grades 9 through 12 for courses not currently attended by them. This educational measure is aimed at increasing flexibility and accessibility for students in obtaining high school credits, fostering a more inclusive education environment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 0838 appears to be largely positive among educators and proponents of educational flexibility. There is a general agreement that the bill could enhance student opportunities and address gaps in access to education. However, it may attract scrutiny regarding the fairness of assessment methods and the potential for variability in credit exam quality among different LEAs. Stakeholders are concerned about the adequacy of support systems to ensure consistent and equitable implementation across schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of credit exams and their impact on both educational standards and student evaluation processes. Critics could argue that while SB 0838 aims to provide greater access, it might inadvertently lead to discrepancies in educational quality and assessment rigor. Furthermore, there are implications for teacher evaluations and accountability, as assessments administered under the bill shall not affect the evaluation outcomes for educators or schools, which raises questions about maintaining academic standards while promoting flexibility.