Tennessee House Bill HB1295

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Refer: 4/5/23
• Engrossed: 4/11/23
• Enrolled: 4/13/23
• Passed: 4/28/23
• Chaptered: 5/3/23

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB1295 could significantly influence state education laws by establishing a framework for monitoring student progress in the critical ninth grade. This strategic focus intends to ensure better retention rates and equip educators with the necessary tools to address potential dropout risks. By broadening the scope of student assessments, the bill seeks to align educational practices with contemporary needs, thereby promoting better educational outcomes across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1295 aims to enhance the state’s education accountability system by mandating a study into the use of ninth grade 'on-track' indicators. This legislation focuses on identifying at-risk students and implementing effective measures to prevent them from dropping out of high school. The Tennessee Department of Education is tasked with researching best practices from other states to define 'on-track' success and develop specific indicators, such as credit accumulation and attendance patterns, to monitor student engagement effectively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1295 appears to be generally supportive. Legislators and education advocates recognize the importance of targeting at-risk students early in their high school journey, as successful interventions can promote graduation rates. Various stakeholders, including educators and community leaders, likely view the bill as a proactive step toward fostering educational success and equity, thereby addressing longstanding issues within the state's education system.

Contention

While many support the bill's objectives, discussions may arise concerning the implementation of the proposed studies and their associated costs. Some opponents may question whether the focus on 'on-track' indicators sufficiently addresses the underlying factors contributing to dropout rates, potentially advocating for a more comprehensive approach. The balance between research and practical application will be key in determining the bill's effectiveness and addressing the needs of diverse student populations.