SB1151: Allow Lottery Aid for Certain Private Postsecondary Institutions

TN Gen. Assy Bill: SB1151

Sponsor: Crowe

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Bill Summary

Modification of Eligibility Requirements: Removes the mandate that a student with a documented intellectual disability be admitted to and enrolled in an eligible postsecondary institution and program within 16 months of high school completion to qualify for a Tennessee STEP UP scholarship.
Amendments to Existing Law: Alters provisions in TCA Title 8, Chapter 50, Part 1; Title 49, Chapter 7; and Title 49, Chapter 4 to incorporate these changes.

Risks & Considerations

The removal of the 16-month enrollment requirement for students with documented intellectual disabilities to receive the Tennessee STEP UP scholarship could increase access to higher education for these students. This change may lead to a more inclusive educational environment and promote diversity within postsecondary institutions.
There is a potential risk of increased demand for support services and accommodations at Vanderbilt University to adequately support students with intellectual disabilities. This may require additional resources and training for faculty and staff.
The amendment could lead to a higher number of applications for the Tennessee STEP UP scholarship, necessitating adjustments in the scholarship’s funding allocation and management.
Vanderbilt University may need to evaluate its current programs and support structures to ensure they are equipped to meet the needs of a potentially larger population of students with intellectual disabilities.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s Office of Student Access Services may see an increased demand for its services, requiring expansion or enhancement of its current offerings to support a more diverse student body.
The Peabody College of Education and Human Development could play a significant role in researching and developing best practices for inclusive education, potentially leading to new partnerships and funding opportunities.
Vanderbilt’s Financial Aid Office might need to adjust its strategies to accommodate changes in scholarship distribution and ensure equitable access to financial resources for all students.

Financial Impact

The potential increase in scholarship applications may require additional funding or reallocation of existing resources to support the Tennessee STEP UP scholarship program effectively.
Vanderbilt University could benefit from increased funding opportunities for research and development in inclusive education practices, particularly through collaborations with state and federal agencies.
There may be a need for investment in infrastructure and resources to support the academic and social success of students with intellectual disabilities, which could have financial implications for the university.

Relevance Score: 3 (The bill presents moderate risks involving compliance and the need for enhanced support services.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Financial Aid Office should explore the implications of the “Speak UP, Tennessee Scholarship Act” which provides scholarships for students demonstrating artistic excellence in spoken word poetry. This could involve developing partnerships with high schools to identify potential candidates and aligning financial aid strategies to support these students.
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 strategic planning and leadership appointments within the university.
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 talented spoken word artists. This could include hosting workshops, competitions, and events that highlight and nurture artistic talent in the state.
The expanded authority of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Leadership to engage more closely with state education policymakers. By participating in discussions and decision-making processes, Vanderbilt can influence policies that affect higher education in Tennessee.
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, the university 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 the higher education commission’s role.)

Average Relevance Score: 2

Timeline for Implementation

N/A: The legislation does not specify any deadlines or timelines for implementation.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

Tennessee Higher Education Commission: As the administrator of the Tennessee STEP UP scholarship program, this commission is directly affected by the altered eligibility requirements.
Tennessee Department of Education: The change in scholarship enrollment criteria impacts the policies under its jurisdiction that guide postsecondary education and financial aid.
Public Postsecondary Institutions: By modifying enrollment requirements for students with a documented intellectual disability, these government-affiliated institutions are indirectly affected in their role of providing eligible programs.

Relevance Score: 2 (A moderate number of state-level education agencies and public institutions are impacted by these eligibility changes.)

Responsible Officials

N/A – The text does not designate any specific officials or agencies responsible for implementing the legislative changes.

Relevance Score: 1 (No designated responsible officials, hence minimal direct impact on high-level leadership.)