AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to assessments administered to students who receive instruction through virtual means.
Impact
The bill's implications on state law are significant, as it sets a standardized framework for conducting assessments in virtual settings, thereby affecting how virtual education programs operate regarding accountability and student evaluation. The legislation seeks to ensure that assessments are both secure and valid, thereby maintaining educational standards in an era increasingly dominated by online learning. The requirement for proctoring via technology aims to mitigate risks associated with dishonest practices during assessments.
Summary
Senate Bill 2265 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the administration of the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) assessments for students receiving instruction through virtual means. This legislation specifies the conditions under which TCAP tests may be administered to students enrolled in virtual schools or education programs, emphasizing the need for organized, synchronous sessions under closely monitored conditions. The bill delineates requirements such as a defined assessment date, a specific student-to-proctor ratio, and stipulations regarding technology use during assessments.
Contention
A potential point of contention surrounding SB2265 stems from the technological requirements for administering TCAP tests. Critics may argue that mandating two devices (if necessary) for monitoring purposes could impose undue burdens on students and families, particularly those in underserved areas with limited access to technology. Furthermore, establishing a structured testing protocol contrasts with the flexibility often associated with virtual education, raising concerns about how this may affect student performance and engagement.
Crossfiled
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to assessments administered to students who receive instruction through virtual means.
Relating to the regulation of pharmacists and the practice of pharmacy, including the administration of a medication and the ordering and administration of an immunization or vaccination by a pharmacist.