HB1336: Eliminate Obsolete Literacy Report Requirement in Education Law

TN Gen. Assy Bill: HB1336

Sponsor: Lamberth

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Bill Summary

Obsolete Provision Removal: Eliminates the requirement for the department of education to provide a student literacy report by July 1, 2024.
Collaborative Reporting: Previously involved working with the state board and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission to report to legislative committees.
Statutory Amendments: Affects provisions in TCA Title 4, Chapter 49; Title 8; and Title 49.

Risks & Considerations

The removal of the reporting requirement on student literacy implementation may reduce transparency and accountability in tracking the progress of literacy initiatives. This could hinder the ability to assess the effectiveness of current strategies and make informed decisions for future improvements.
Without the mandated report, there may be less pressure on the department of education and associated bodies to prioritize literacy programs, potentially impacting the quality and reach of these initiatives.
Vanderbilt University, particularly its education-focused programs, may face challenges in obtaining comprehensive data on state literacy efforts, which could affect research and policy recommendations.
The absence of this report might limit opportunities for collaboration between Vanderbilt and state education bodies, as there would be fewer formal updates on literacy program outcomes and needs.

Impacted Programs

Peabody College of Education and Human Development may need to seek alternative sources of data and insights to continue its research and advocacy in literacy education effectively.
The Office of Community Engagement might need to increase its direct involvement with local schools to gather information and support literacy initiatives, compensating for the lack of formal state reports.
Vanderbilt’s partnerships with state education agencies could be affected, as the removal of the report may reduce structured opportunities for collaboration and information exchange.

Financial Impact

The removal of the reporting requirement could lead to a reallocation of resources within the department of education, potentially affecting funding for literacy programs and related research initiatives.
Vanderbilt University may need to adjust its funding strategies to account for potential changes in state priorities and the availability of data-driven insights for grant applications.
There may be increased competition for external funding sources focused on literacy, as the lack of state reports could drive more institutions to seek independent research and program support.

Relevance Score: 3 (The bill presents moderate risks involving compliance and the potential need for strategic adjustments in literacy-related programs and collaborations.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Financial Aid Office should evaluate the implications of the “Speak UP, Tennessee Scholarship Act” which provides scholarships for students demonstrating artistic excellence in spoken word poetry. This could impact the university’s recruitment strategies and financial aid offerings, particularly for students with artistic talents.
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission changes, including the addition of the executive director to the selection process for chief executive officers, should be monitored by Vanderbilt’s administration. Understanding these changes will be crucial for aligning with state-level governance and maintaining influence in higher education policy.
Vanderbilt’s Office of Institutional Research should prepare to contribute to the required reports on tuition discounts and waivers. By providing comprehensive data and analysis, the university can ensure its interests are represented in state evaluations of financial support and student outcomes.

Opportunities

The introduction of the “Speak UP, Tennessee Scholarship Act” offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Department of English and Creative Writing to engage with high school students excelling in spoken word poetry. This could include hosting workshops, competitions, or collaborative projects to attract talented students to Vanderbilt.
The expanded authority of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission’s executive director presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Government Relations Office to strengthen its relationship with the commission. By engaging with the executive director, Vanderbilt can influence decisions that affect higher education policy and funding.
The focus on evaluating tuition discounts and waivers provides an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Financial Planning Office to showcase its innovative financial aid models. By highlighting successful strategies, Vanderbilt can position itself as a leader in making higher education accessible and affordable.

Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures to align with new scholarship opportunities and changes in higher education governance.)

Average Relevance Score: 2

Timeline for Implementation

N/A – No new implementation deadline is specified since the legislation removes an obsolete report requirement rather than imposing a new directive.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

Tennessee Department of Education: The report requirement has been removed, directly affecting the department’s role in reporting on student literacy implementation.
Tennessee Higher Education Commission: As a partner in the previously required report, the commission’s involvement is impacted by the amendment.
Tennessee State Board (Education): The board, referenced as a partner in the reporting process, is also affected by the legislative change.
Legislative Committees: These committees, which were to receive the report, will no longer be doing so, altering the information flow and oversight process.

Relevance Score: 2 (Between 3-5 agencies are affected by the proposed legislation.)

Responsible Officials

N/A – The legislation simply removes an obsolete reporting requirement and does not assign any new implementation directives to specific officials.

Relevance Score: 1 (The change does not involve directing any officials to undertake new actions.)