Bill > HB0030

This bill ensures that students who are English language learners (ELLs) and have received language assistance services in their classrooms during the school year can continue to receive those same services when taking state-mandated tests, such as the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) tests or end-of-course assessments, provided these services do not invalidate the test results. Language assistance services are defined as support specifically designed for non-English speakers, either provided by a teacher with an English as a second language endorsement according to an individual learning plan (ILP), or through accommodations and support from a general education teacher for students whose parents have opted out of the specialized endorsement services but still require linguistic and academic help based on their ILP. This provision aims to allow ELL students to demonstrate their knowledge accurately on assessments by continuing the support they receive during regular instruction and will apply to TCAP tests starting in the 2026-2027 school year.