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SB 1890

Local Education Agencies - As enacted, requires, beginning with the next adoption of academic standards in the subject of social studies, the standards recommendation committee to include in their final recommendations of academic standards in the subject of social studies to the state board of education, and the state board, to adopt, grade-appropriate academic standards on the history of communism. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Janice Bowling

Tennessee requires public schools to teach communism's history in age-appropriate ways, passed 72-18, raising questions about curriculum balance and implementation costs.

Pub. Ch. 708
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Bill Summary · SB 1890

Legislative bill overview

SB 1890 mandates that Tennessee's local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools incorporate age- and grade-appropriate instruction on the history of communism into their curricula. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 49, which governs public education standards and requirements.

Why is this important

This legislation directly shapes what Tennessee students learn about political and economic systems, potentially influencing how young people understand 20th-century history and geopolitics. The requirement affects curriculum planning, teacher training, and instructional materials across all public school systems in the state, with implementation costs and pedagogical considerations for educators.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum scope and balance: Critics may argue this mandate adds specific content requirements without clarifying whether instruction should present communism neutrally as historical fact or emphasize its negative aspects, and whether equal time is given to other political systems
  • Age-appropriateness standards: Disagreement exists over what constitutes "age- and grade-appropriate" for elementary versus secondary students, and who determines this standard
  • Teacher preparedness and resources: Educators may lack specialized training in this subject area, and schools may need to develop or purchase new instructional materials, creating budgetary implications not explicitly addressed in the bill

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

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