Tennessee Department of Education Introducedes New State-level Accountability Process

The Tennessee Department of Education has introduced a new state-level accountability process, marking a significant departure from previous evaluation methods. Unveiled for the first time, this accountability system will be applied retroactively to generate school report cards for the 2022-2023 academic year. District and school leaders were only made aware of these substantial changes in early November 2023. The Tennessee Department of Education continues to use the traditional federal accountability system as well. However, it will not be used to create letter grades or report card metrics.

While the specific details of the forthcoming report cards remain unknown, it is emphasized that Jefferson County is committed to surpassing the newly established standards. The grading system for schools will adopt a familiar A-F range across the state, with guidelines set by the Tennessee Legislature and the Tennessee Department of Education. Notably, average-performing schools are slated to fall within the C range, according to the recently established criteria.

In anticipation of the upcoming report card release, administrators plan to provide an update once the grades are processed for their district. Preliminary projections, based on current information, suggest that most schools in Tennessee are likely to land within the C range.

Jefferson County Schools wants to note significant improvements in achievement scores since the 2018-2019 academic year. Notably, the district has rebounded from the challenges posed by the 2020-2021 academic year, marked by low scores in the aftermath of COVID-related closures. Furthermore, the district boasts above average growth, measured by the Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS), with most schools consistently performing at the highest levels.

Parents and stakeholders are encouraged to direct any questions or concerns regarding the report cards to their respective school’s principal. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and excellence in education, even amidst these transformative changes to the accountability system. Updates will be provided as soon as the report cards are released, offering a comprehensive view of the educational landscape in Tennessee for the 2022-2023 school year. Expected release date is December 21, 2023.