Tennessee Senate Bill SB2403

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Engrossed: 3/23/26
• Enrolled: 5/5/26
• Passed: 5/22/26
• Chaptered: 5/27/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 49, relative to education.

Impact

With the implementation of SB2403, the state seeks to enhance educational accountability by requiring a standardized reporting format for local assessments. The bill specifies that results from these assessments will not be used for accountability determinations, which may alleviate pressure on schools while still fostering an environment of transparency and parental engagement. As such, parents will have more information to make informed choices about their children's education.

Summary

Senate Bill 2403 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding education, specifically focusing on local assessments and the administration of the Tennessee universal reading screener. The bill mandates that local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools annually submit information on local assessments they administer, including the names and schedules of these assessments. Furthermore, it establishes that the Tennessee universal reading screener must be provided at no cost to these entities, ensuring that students from pre-kindergarten through grade three have access to necessary reading assessments.

Contention

Notably, the bill also establishes an assessment review board responsible for annually reviewing the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) tests. While the review board can identify areas of concern that require instructional revisions, some educators may express apprehension regarding the effectiveness and fairness of high-stakes testing environments. The focus on standardized assessments versus more holistic evaluation measures could lead to debates among educators and policymakers about the best approaches to student assessment and achievement.

Implementation

Key sections of the bill will take effect starting July 1, 2026, which applies to the 2026-2027 school year and beyond. This timeline allows LEAs and public charter schools to prepare for these changes, including adjusting their assessment practices and ensuring compliance with the new reporting requirements outlined in the legislation. Overall, SB2403 signifies a legislative push towards enhancing educational assessment standards while balancing local educational flexibility.