Gov. Lee proposes three bills as special session to address education in TN nears

Ahead of next week’s special called session to address education in Tennessee, Gov. Bill Lee is proposing legislation to help curb learning losses brought on by the pandemic.

“COVID-19 has disrupted every aspect of education and we are on the cusp of severe consequences for our students if we don’t act now,” said Gov. Lee. “Data suggests that Tennessee third graders are facing an estimated 50% drop in reading proficiency and a projected 65% drop in math proficiency and that is not an acceptable path for our kids. I thank Lt. Gov. McNally, Speaker Sexton and members of the General Assembly for acting quickly on behalf of our students and taking up intervention measures during the special session.”

The bills include plans on things like introducing programs to increase math and English proficiency rates for struggling students, a focus towards a phonics-based approach for K-3rd grade reading instruction, and extending last year’s provisions to protect students, teachers, schools, and districts from facing negative consequences from student assessments.

Lee also plans to propose adding funding for teachers salaries.

“Educators across the state are working tirelessly to turn the tide for their students and help them regain critical math and reading skills,” said Gov. Lee. “We believe they should be compensated for their efforts and look forward to working with the General Assembly to provide funding for our teachers.”

Below are complete descriptions of each bill from the Governor:

Intervening to Stop Learning Loss – SB 7002

·Requires interventions for struggling students including after-school learning mini-camps, learning loss bridge camps and summer learning camps, beginning summer 2021

·Program prioritizes students who score below proficient in both reading (ELA) and math subjects

·Creates the Tennessee Accelerated Literacy and Learning Corps to provide ongoing tutoring for students throughout the entire school year

·Strengthens laws around a third grade reading gate so we no longer advance students who are not prepared

Building Better Readers with Phonics – SB 7003

·Ensures local education agencies (LEAs) use a phonics-based approach for kindergarten through third grade reading instruction

·Establishes a reading screener for parents and teachers to identify when students need help, well before third grade

·Provides training and support for educators to teach phonics-based reading instruction

Accountability to Inform – SB 7001

·Extends hold harmless provisions from the 2019-20 school year to the 2020-21 school year so that students, teachers, schools and districts do not face any negative consequences associated with student assessments

·Provides parents and educators with assessment data including TCAP testing to provide an accurate picture of where Tennessee students are and what supports are needed to offset any learning losses

House companion bills are expected to be filed in the coming days. The special session is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 19.

Photo Courtesy: Supertalk File