Image Credit: capitol.tn.gov
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
A new bill proposal by Rep. William Slater (R-Gallatin-District 35) would tighten homeschool testing requirements, potentially forcing a homeschooled student back into a public school if the state deems they have performed poorly.
HB1729 would alter existing state law which requires homeschooled students to be assessed via “approved secure standardized tests required of public school students” in 5th, 7th, and 9th grades, with the results being shared with the parent-teacher, the local director of schools and the state board of education. A tiered intervention system is then in place for homeschool students who are deemed to be “falling behind” via the test results.
Currently, if a homeschooler is determined to be 3-6 months behind their appropriate grade level, as dictated by their test scores in reading, language arts, math, and science, the parent-teacher is required to consult with the director of schools.
If a student is deemed to be 6-9 months behind, the parent is required to consult with a licensed teacher to design a remedial course for the child which the parent must submit to the local director of schools.
Should a home school student, who is not learning disabled per a licensed teacher, fall more than 1 year behind their grade level for two consecutive tests, the director of schools may require the parents to enroll the child in a public, private, or church related school.
HB1729 would shift these metrics so student success is measured in percentiles instead of howm many “months behind” a student may be for their grade level. Therefore, the first tier requiring a consultation with the director of schools would apply if a student fell between the 25th and 50th percentile.
Homeschool students scoring below the 25th percentile would be required to retake the standardized test within a year and develop remedial coursework with a licensed teacher in the subject in which the student scored poorly.
And if the student scores below the 25th percentile for two consecutive tests, and the child is not learning disabled, the student can be forced to enroll in a public, private, or church related school.
The bill would also give the Classical Learning Test (CLT) the same legal recognition as the SAT and ACT and make students who take the CLT eligible for state lottery scholarships.
HB1729 has not yet been assigned a House committee for consideration.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
