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HJR 1304

Memorials, Recognition - Kaycee Mae Pratt -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rick Eldridge

Ceremonially recognize Kaycee Mae Pratt for exceptional academics, leadership, and over 1,000 hours of service, including founding Kaycee’s CandyLab and future study at Vanderbilt.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · HJR 1304

Summary of Bill: HJR 1304 (Session 114, Tennessee)

Title

Memorials, Recognition - Kaycee Mae Pratt

Purpose and Intent

  • A House Joint Resolution recognizing and honoring Kaycee Mae Pratt, a 2026 graduate of Grainger High School, for her academic achievements, leadership, philanthropy, and acceptance to Vanderbilt University as part of the Class of 2030.
  • The resolution expresses commendation and best wishes, highlighting Pratt as a role model for academic excellence, civic service, and leadership, particularly as a first-generation college student and future STEM leader.

Key Provisions and Provisions in the Resolution

  • Formal recognition of Kaycee Pratt by the Tennessee General Assembly.
  • Statement of Pratt’s accomplishments, including:
    • Academic achievement: GPA of 5.0; graduation from Grainger High School in May 2026; participation in dual enrollment at Walters State Community College; member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
    • Leadership and activities: Vice President of Beta Club; captain of the varsity cheer team; presenter for Knoxville Teen Board; Algebra I tutor.
    • Philanthropy and service: more than 1,000 service hours; over $20,000 in philanthropic contributions; founder and director of Kaycee's CandyLab, a nonprofit serving military children in Tennessee, North Carolina, and California since 2022.
    • Community engagement: service with Grainger County and Blaine Police departments, Blount County EMS; involvement with local schools, morale-building efforts, WOW Fair as a STEM presenter; fundraising for Susan G. Komen Foundation; relief efforts for Hurricane Helene; support for Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee.
    • Recognition: 2026 Tennessee Governor's Volunteer Stars Award; 2026 Congressional Medal of Honor for Youth Service; Congressional Award Bronze Medal; media features (Citizen Tribune, Grainger County Journal, Knoxville News Sentinel).
    • Future plans: acceptance to Vanderbilt University (Class of 2030) as a STEM leader and first-generation college student.
  • The resolution requests that an appropriate copy be prepared and delivered, with standard ceremonial language.

Who or What is Affected

  • Kaycee Mae Pratt: receives formal recognition and commendation.
  • Grainger High School community and Grainger County: acknowledged for contributing to Pratt’s development.
  • Vanderbilt University: noted as Pratt’s future institution of higher education.
  • General Assembly and Tennessee residents: informed of notable student achievement and civic participation.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Timeline highlights from the bill’s action history:
    • Introduced and placed on House consent calendar in early April 2026.
    • Passed the House with unanimous support (Ayes 95, Nays 0) on April 7, 2026.
    • Concurred by the Senate and sent to Governor in mid-April 2026.
    • Signed by the Speaker of the House and by Senate leadership; transmitted to the Governor on April 16, 2026.
    • Governor signed and the resolution presumably filed as an official Senate/House memorial.
  • Final purpose is ceremonial; no fiscal impact or policy changes outside recognition.

Observations

  • This is a ceremonial resolution honoring a student for exceptional achievement and community service.
  • Emphasizes multi-faceted excellence: academics, leadership, service, and a notable philanthropic enterprise (Kaycee’s CandyLab).
  • No regulatory changes, appropriations, or statutory amendments are introduced by this bill.

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

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