Championing Higher Standards
Here in Tennessee, we rise to any occasion — it’s how we became the Volunteers, after all. We know our students and teachers can meet the high expectations that are proven to advance academic achievement.
Learning Loss Remediation Through Summer Learning Camps Expansion
Requires districts and public charter schools to conduct summer learning camps and after-school learning mini-camps for priority students annually rather than summers only. Updates the definition of "priority student" to include additional "at-risk" children and students entering certain grade levels to participate in after-school learning mini-camps, learning loss bridge camps, and summer learning camps.
Wireless Communication Devices During Instructional Time
This bill requires each LEA or public charter school to adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy for students that prohibits cell phone use during instructional time except in specific circumstances, and to publish the policy on its website. Research increasingly shows the importance of cell phone-free classrooms for student learning and the negative impact of cell phone use on students. Ensuring classrooms remain phone-free will support student success.
End-of-Course Assessment Requirement Reductions
This bill would replace current requirements for end-of-course assessments in grades 9-12, replacing them with a postsecondary readiness assessment which would be utilized for student, school, and district accountability purposes. Replacing state-aligned end-of-course assessments with a national college readiness exam unaligned to Tennessee curriculum would negatively impact our state's ability to comprehensively measure and track student achievement on aligned standards.
From Kindergarten to Graduation
Today’s students need a strong foundation and a variety of skills and abilities in order to succeed in their chosen next steps. Upon graduation, they’ll enter the workforce, complete a professional certification at a technical school, serve in America’s Armed Forces, or earn a degree from a four-year college or university. Whatever the path, students must be ready — on day one — to learn and achieve. High academic standards in today’s classrooms help make sure our students will be ready for tomorrow’s opportunities for success.
Beyond Standards
It’s about making sure our kids are ready for the challenges, opportunities, and possibilities that will come their way when they leave our classrooms and venture into the world. We must also stop misguided attempts to lower our standards, accept mediocrity from our schools, or decrease our expectations for what every single student can achieve.
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Take Action for Tennessee Kids
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