AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to school safety.
Impact
If enacted, SB1665 will require educational institutions to revise their policies regarding substitute teacher training. This bill applies not only to the current school year but also establishes a precedent for future academic years, beginning in 2024-2025. The implications of this legislation mean that local boards of education will need to invest in developing appropriate training materials that comply with the new requirements, thereby potentially increasing operational responsibilities and costs for schools.
Summary
Senate Bill 1665 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 49, which relates to school safety. The bill mandates that substitute teachers receive annual training focused on school safety, which includes emergency response procedures specified by local educational authorities. This initiative emphasizes the importance of preparedness among substitute teachers, who play a crucial role in maintaining a safe learning environment during emergencies when regular teachers may be absent.
Contention
While the bill is largely viewed as a positive step towards enhancing school safety, there may be a range of opinions regarding its implementation. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the feasibility of effectively training all substitute teachers annually, given the variations in local education resources. Additionally, the bill could spark debates around the adequacy of existing training programs for both new and seasoned substitute teachers, especially regarding the specifics of emergency response protocols in diverse school settings.