Tennessee Senate Bill SB0631

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, relative to days of special observance.

Impact

The bill amends Tennessee's Code Annotated, specifically Title 15, Chapter 2, which relates to days of special observance. By incorporating this new observance day, the state acknowledges the contributions of individuals who have made significant impacts in their communities. Although this does not create a legal holiday, it elevates the recognition of Sister Smithson's efforts to improve educational access for children in need, reinforcing the values of service and education within the state's cultural framework.

Summary

Senate Bill 631 (SB0631) proposes the establishment of an annual observance day in honor of Sister Sandra Olivia Smithson. Recognized for her contributions as an educator and advocate for low-income families, Sister Smithson's legacy includes founding Nashville's first charter school, the Smithson Craighead Academy. This bill aims to pay tribute to her lifetime of service, particularly in the field of education, by designating March 3 of each year as 'Sister Sandra Smithson Day.'

Contention

While the bill serves as a commendation for Sister Smithson's achievements, discussions surrounding its approval may revolve around the effectiveness of naming observance days in general. Some legislators and community members may question the practical outcomes of such recognitions, suggesting that while honoring individuals is important, more concrete efforts towards educational policy and funding may be necessary to address ongoing challenges in the education system for low-income families.