AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to language assistance for students.
Impact
The proposed legislation impacts state law by amending the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically concerning language assistance for students. The bill requires that eligible students receive these services at least fourteen days prior to the TCAP testing window, ensuring adequate preparation time. This change underscores a commitment to supporting diverse learners and recognizing the varying linguistic needs of students within the public education system.
Summary
House Bill 2024 aims to enhance language assistance services for students undergoing the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) tests. The bill mandates that the Tennessee Department of Education must contract with the provider of the TCAP tests to ensure that students who have received language assistance in class are afforded the same support during testing. This is intended to help students better understand and perform on the assessments, thereby ensuring equitable educational opportunities.
Contention
While the bill appears to have widespread support for its goal of improving educational equity, discussions may arise around its execution and funding. Concerns often emphasize the logistical challenges of implementing such language assistance on a statewide scale, especially regarding the consistency and quality of services provided. Additionally, the availability of resources to support these language assistance services, along with their integration into existing educational programs, could be points of contention among stakeholders.