NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. William Slater, R-Gallatin, has proposed legislation to enhance testing freedom for Tennessee students
House Bill 1729 will expand testing options by authorizing the use of additional nationally normed standardized exams for homeschool students in grades five, seven and nine. Currently, independent homeschool students are required to be administered the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program in-person at their zoned public school. This proposal provides alternative testing options by allowing families to select an eligible English language arts and mathematics exam.
“This legislation recognizes the fundamental truth that everyone is unique and thrives in different environments,” said Slater. “Parents deserve options in their child’s educational journey, including in testing. Expanding access to additional rigorous examinations will provide greater flexibility and freedom while ensuring all students across Tennessee can accurately demonstrate their academic progress.”
The proposal eliminates an antiquated section of Tennessee law that allows a school district to require a homeschool student to enter public or private school if the child fails to meet certain testing requirements. It also adds the Classic Learning Test as an option for all Tennessee students as an alternative to the ACT or SAT.
House Bill 1729 is scheduled to be heard in the Education Committee on March 17.
State Rep. William Slater represents District 35, which includes Trousdale and part of Sumner counties. He is chair of the Education Administration Committee and also serves on the Education Committee, K-12 Subcommittee and Insurance Committee.