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SB 822

Education - As introduced, authorizes virtual schools to administer TCAP tests to their students in a virtual setting if certain requirements are met. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Joey Hensley

SB 822 permits Tennessee virtual schools to administer TCAP standardized tests remotely if they meet unspecified security requirements, streamlining assessment but raising test integrity concerns.

Assigned to General Subcommittee of Senate Education Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 822

Legislative bill overview

SB 822 allows virtual schools in Tennessee to administer TCAP (Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program) tests to their students in online/remote settings rather than requiring in-person testing, provided they meet specified security and procedural requirements. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 49, which governs education.

Why is this important

TCAP tests are standardized assessments used to evaluate student achievement and school performance across Tennessee. Currently, virtual school students typically must test in-person, creating logistical challenges and potential barriers to participation. This bill could streamline testing for the growing virtual education sector while raising questions about test integrity and equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Test security and validity concerns: Remote testing environments are harder to proctor than in-person settings, potentially allowing cheating or assistance that compromises test reliability and comparability of scores across virtual and traditional schools.
  • Undefined "certain requirements": The bill's language lacks specificity about what security measures or conditions virtual schools must meet, leaving implementation details unclear and potentially allowing inconsistent standards.
  • Equity implications: Students in virtual schools may have varying home environments and technology access, which could affect test conditions differently than standardized in-person testing, potentially skewing results by socioeconomic status.

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

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