Bill > HB1857

This bill mandates that every local education agency (LEA), which refers to public school districts, and every public charter school in Tennessee must dedicate one instructional day each school year to observing the Fourth of July. This observance will involve providing students from kindergarten through twelfth grade with age- and grade-appropriate instruction on key aspects of American history and civics, including the founding of the United States, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the fundamental rights and freedoms enjoyed by American citizens. The bill outlines specific learning objectives for different grade levels, focusing on understanding the meaning of the Fourth of July, the events leading to independence, the purpose of foundational documents, and the connection between founding principles and modern civic responsibilities. LEAs and charter schools will have the flexibility to determine the instructional methods, such as classroom lessons, readings, or assemblies, and must ensure the instruction is nonpartisan and educational, focusing on historical facts and civic principles. This new requirement will take effect for the 2026-2027 school year and subsequent years.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1857&ga=114