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HB 485

Education - As enacted, authorizes local education agencies and public charter schools to provide up to four days of the required 180 days of classroom instruction via hybrid learning in the event of dangerous or extreme weather conditions, or an emergency, as determined by the director of schools or the director of public charter schools. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by G.A. Hardaway

Tennessee schools may now use up to 4 hybrid instruction days toward the required 180-day school year during severe weather or emergencies, effective July 1, 2025.

Pub. Ch. 484
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Bill Summary · HB 485

Legislative bill overview

HB 485 modifies Tennessee's education requirements to allow local school districts and charter schools to count up to four days of hybrid (remote/in-person combined) instruction toward the mandatory 180-day school year when dangerous weather, extreme conditions, or emergencies make normal classroom instruction unsafe or impractical. The bill grants decision-making authority to individual school directors rather than applying a statewide standard.

Why is this important

Tennessee experiences severe weather events (ice storms, tornadoes, extreme heat) that historically forced full closures, disrupting learning schedules and requiring make-up days. This flexibility allows schools to maintain instructional continuity during emergencies while reducing scheduling disruptions for families and staff. The provision particularly affects rural and less-equipped schools that may lack robust remote infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Equity concerns: Schools with limited technology access or student broadband availability may struggle to implement effective hybrid learning, potentially creating disparities in instructional quality across districts
  • Definition ambiguity: "Dangerous or extreme weather" and "emergency" lack precise thresholds, giving administrators broad discretion that could lead to inconsistent application across similar situations
  • Academic quality: Four days of hybrid instruction may not provide equivalent educational value to traditional classroom learning, particularly for younger students or those requiring hands-on instruction

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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