Tennessee House Bill HB0426

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 1 and Title 49, Chapter 6, relative to student performance.

Impact

If enacted, HB 426 will impact how data regarding student performance is reported and utilized within the educational framework of Tennessee. By requiring annual reports that include financial context through median income data, the bill seeks to create a clearer picture of the challenges faced by schools in different socio-economic environments. This could lead to targeted interventions or funding allocations designed to improve educational outcomes in underserved areas, ultimately influencing state laws regarding education and resource distribution.

Summary

House Bill 426, proposed in Tennessee, aims to amend certain sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance the reporting requirements related to student performance. Specifically, the bill mandates that the commissioner of education report average performance ratings for students in each local education agency (LEA) and public charter school based on recent testing results, alongside the median household income data for the corresponding counties. This requirement intends to provide more transparency regarding educational outcomes and their correlation with socio-economic factors, thereby equipping policymakers with the necessary data to make informed decisions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 426 appears to be supportive among legislators, particularly those focused on educational reform and accountability. The bill's proponents view it as a significant step towards fostering accountability in education and making informed legislative decisions based on robust data. The discussions suggest a bipartisan acknowledgment of the need to enhance the way educational data is collected and reported, though some concern may arise regarding the potential administrative burden on the education department.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, potential contention arises around privacy concerns regarding the handling of data, specifically in relation to compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). There may also be debate regarding the feasibility of the reporting requirements and whether they could inadvertently divert resources away from frontline educational initiatives. Additionally, discussions may focus on how effectively the data can be used to bring about tangible improvements in student performance without overcomplicating the reporting process.