(NASHVILLE) — During the 2017 legislative session, members of the House Education Administration & Planning Committee — led by Chairman Harry Brooks (R-Knoxville) — and the House Education Instruction & Programs Committee — led by Chairman John Forgety (R-Athens) effectively supported the educational goals and dreams of the state’s teachers and students.
Thanks to the hard work of State Representative Jay Reedy (R-Erin) and fellow members, these committees advanced a total of 80 legislative initiatives in 2017; fifty-eight were signed into law by Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam.
These initiatives enhance student and teacher safety, create new higher education opportunities, and improve access to high-quality education. Some of the legislation includes:
- House Bill 22: Places high school students on a fast track to their college degree.
- House Bill 174: Creates a culture of respect for educators by enacting the Teacher’s Bill of Rights.
- House Bill 192: Optimizes school hours for learning.
- House Bill 310: Creates high-quality education opportunities.
- House Bill 322: Enhances transportation safety for students.
- House Bill 433: Supports higher education opportunities for veterans.
- House Bill 439: Prepares school districts for adverse situations involving student safety.
- House Bill 457: Assists educators with the cost of classroom supplies and materials.
- House Bill 530: Helps military service members pursue their educational goals without fear of financial struggle.
- House Bill 531: Reconnects adults to higher education opportunities.
- House Bill 980: Funds a two-year scholarship program for students interested in earning their college degree while completing high school.
- House Bill 1169: Reinforces the importance of Tennessee history among students.
“We must prioritize the education and safety of our children because they are the key to the future success of our state,” said Representative Reedy. “When we support our teachers and allow our youngest citizens to achieve their educational goals and dreams, we all benefit. I renew my pledge to serve as a voice for these important groups in the House chamber, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to improve education in communities across Tennessee in 2018.”
“The men and women who serve on these committees have worked tirelessly in 2017 in order to ensure that Tennessee is a state that continues to experience rapid and significant improvements in education,” said Chairman Brooks. “As I reflect on our endeavors together, I know we made great strides supporting our students and teachers by providing them with additional tools and resources while also demonstrating our commitment to their safety.”
“In order for Tennessee to continue to serve as a model for economic success, I believe we must focus on and invest in initiatives that strengthen our education system,” said Chairman Forgety. “By creating laws that benefit both our students and educators, we are allowing them to succeed and solidifying the future of our state.”
Additionally, the successful outcomes produced by the committees did not go unnoticed by House leadership, especially Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville).
“I want to personally thank the hardworking members of both House Education Committees for their work improving education across Tennessee,” said Speaker Harwell. “Their accomplishments during the 2017 legislative session will benefit current and future generations of our citizens and help our state maintain the economic momentum and prosperity we have experienced in recent years.”
Jay Reedy serves as a member of the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee and Subcommittee, as well as the House Education Instruction & Programs Committee. He lives in Erin and represents House District 74, which includes all of Houston, Humphreys, and part of Montgomery Counties. He can be reached by email at Rep.Jay.Reedy@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-7098.
