NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee General Assembly on Thursday passed legislation ensuring parents have vital information about their child’s individual needs to make informed decisions about their education. House Bill 861, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, requires school districts across Tennessee to provide parents or guardians a copy of the draft individualized education […]
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee General Assembly on Thursday passed legislation ensuring parents have vital information about their child’s individual needs to make informed decisions about their education.
House Bill 861, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, requires school districts across Tennessee to provide parents or guardians a copy of the draft individualized education program (IEP) at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting to discuss the plan.
“Parents are in control of their child’s education and they have a right to know the challenges they face and their individualized learning needs,” McCalmon said. “Heavy topics can be discussed during IEP meetings, and this legislation provides parents with vital information in advance so they have a chance to collect their thoughts, take in the information and ensure their child can thrive in school. Tennessee Republicans are committed to expanding parental rights in education because no one knows a student better than their mother, father or guardian.”
This legislation will require copies of all evaluations and assessments taken for an IEP to be made available within the same 48-hour time frame.
Finally, House Bill 861 codifies the current Tennessee State Board of Education rules requiring districts to notify parents or guardians at least ten days before an IEP meeting.
House Bill 861 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law, when it will immediately take effect.
State Rep. Jake McCalmon represents House District 63, which includes part of Williamson County.