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SB 517

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 Raumesh Akbari

Tennessee schools can now count up to 4 hybrid instruction days toward the required 180-day school year during severe weather or emergencies, reducing makeup day burdens.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 484
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Bill Summary · SB 517

Legislative bill overview

SB 517 allows Tennessee schools and charter schools to count up to four days of hybrid (remote) instruction toward their required 180-day school year when dangerous weather, extreme conditions, or emergencies occur. The bill amends state education law to provide flexibility in how schools meet their annual instructional time requirements during unavoidable disruptions.

Why this is important

Schools traditionally must close entirely during severe weather or emergencies, losing instructional days that must be made up through extended school years or makeup days. This bill offers an alternative that keeps students engaged academically without requiring full in-person attendance during hazardous conditions, potentially reducing schedule disruptions for families and educators while maintaining instructional time.

Potential points of contention

  • Equity concerns: Hybrid learning assumes all students have equal access to reliable internet, devices, and home learning environments—a disparity that disadvantages low-income and rural students
  • Instructional quality trade-offs: Remote instruction may be less effective for hands-on subjects, special education services, and students requiring intensive support, potentially widening achievement gaps
  • Definition ambiguity: "Dangerous or extreme weather" and emergency determinations rest with school directors, leaving room for inconsistent application across districts and potential abuse of the flexibility

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

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