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HJR 271

Memorials, Professional Achievement - LaShonda Toran, Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by John Clemmons

The bill formally honors Lashonda Toran as the 2024–2025 Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year and commends her dedication and impact on students.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 271

Summary of House Joint Resolution 271 (HJR 271)

Overview

HJR 271 is a memorial joint resolution recognizing Lashonda Toran for being named the 2024–2025 Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year. The bill is a ceremonial expression of appreciation from Tennessee’s General Assembly, concluding with language commending Ms. Toran’s service and wishing her continued success. The sponsor is Rep. Clemmons. The resolution has been signed by the Governor.

  • Bill number: HJR 271
  • Title: Memorials, Professional Achievement – Lashonda Toran, Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year
  • Status: Signed by Governor (03/19/2025)
  • Introduction date: 02/25/2025
  • Classification: Joint Resolution
  • Subject: Memorials, Professional Achievement
  • Spelling note: The bill text uses “Lashonda Toran” (often rendered as LaShonda Toran in some materials)

What the bill would do

  • The resolution honors Lashonda Toran for her selection as the 2024–2025 Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year.
  • It acknowledges her dedication, ability, integrity, and positive influence on students’ lives.
  • It commends her as an inspiration to colleagues and students, highlighting her commitment to high-quality public education.
  • It states the General Assembly’s intent to recognize and celebrate her professional excellence and service to Tennessee’s children.

Key provisions and changes

  • Purpose: Formal recognition by both chambers of the Tennessee General Assembly of Ms. Toran’s achievement.
  • Language: The bill includes standard memorial language praising Ms. Toran’s character, teaching and citizenship impact, and professional expertise.
  • Copies: Provides for an appropriate copy of the resolution to be prepared for presentation.
  • House/Senate designation: If requested, the language following the state seal may appear without House or Senate designation on the copy presented.

Who is affected

  • Lashonda/Lashonda Toran (Apollo Middle School Teacher of the Year) as the primary honored individual.
  • Apollo Middle School, its students, staff, and broader Tennessee education community, which benefits from public recognition of exemplary teachers.
  • The general public and the state’s educational stakeholders, as the resolution publicly acknowledges exemplary professional achievement.

Procedural timeline and status

  • 02/25/2025: Introduced in the House (By Clemmons)
  • 03/03/2025: Adopted in the House (Ayes 90–Nays 0)
  • 03/04/2025 – 03/10/2025: Transmission and consideration steps among House and Senate committees and calendars
  • 03/11/2025: Enrolled and signed by House Speaker; transmitted to Senate
  • 03/12/2025: Transmitted to Governor for action; Senate Speaker signs
  • 03/19/2025: Governor signs the resolution
  • Note: As a memorial resolution, there are no fiscal or regulatory impacts; its effect is ceremonial recognition.

Fiscal and legal impact

  • No fiscal impact or changes to state law are anticipated.
  • The resolution serves as an official expression of appreciation and does not authorize or require any government program or funding.

Additional context

  • This type of bill is common for acknowledging outstanding educators and other public figures.
  • The resolution culminates in publication and presentation, serving as a formal record of the General Assembly’s commendation.

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

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