Bill > SB1213

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 specialized support for non-English speakers, either provided by a teacher with an English as a second language endorsement based on an individual learning plan (ILP), or through accommodations and scaffolding by a general education teacher for students whose parents have opted out of the specialized endorsement services but still require linguistic and academic support according to their ILP. This provision aims to support ELL students' academic progress by allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge on assessments without being hindered by language barriers, and it will apply to TCAP tests starting in the 2026-2027 school year.