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SJR 409

Memorials, Recognition - South Knox Elementary School, 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Becky Massey

Tennessee honors South Knox Elementary for being named a 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School in recognition of its exceptional academic progress and achievements.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 409

Summary of Senate Joint Resolution 409 (SJR 409)

Overview

SJR 409 is a Tennessee Joint Resolution that memorializes and recognizes South Knox Elementary School in Knox County for being named a 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School by the U.S. Department of Education. The resolution is ceremonial in nature, serving as formal acknowledgment by the Tennessee General Assembly of the school’s national recognition and dedication to academic excellence.

  • Sponsor: Massey (primary)
  • Status: Signed by the Governor (May 2, 2025)
  • Introduced: April 7, 2025
  • Classification: Joint Resolution
  • Subject: Memorials, Recognition

Purpose and Intent

  • To publicly congratulate South Knox Elementary School on its designation as a 2024 National ESEA Distinguished School.
  • To commend the administration, faculty, staff, students, and parents for contributing to the school’s achievement.
  • To highlight the National Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Distinguished School program and its aim to recognize schools that demonstrate exceptional progress in one of three areas: exceptional student performance, closing achievement gaps between student groups, or serving high-need populations effectively.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • The resolution acknowledges that South Knox Elementary School was one of only two Tennessee schools and among roughly 100 nationally to receive the Distinguished School award in 2024.
  • It notes that the program has recognized public schools since 1996 for outstanding academic achievement and significant improvements in the three specified categories.
  • The resolution contains the customary “Be It Resolved” language, offering formal congratulations, salutations to the school community, and best wishes for continued success.
  • No changes to statutory law or state policy; the resolution is ceremonial and non-binding, with no fiscal impact.

Who Is Affected

  • Primary: South Knox Elementary School and its school community (administration, teachers, staff, students, and families).
  • Secondary: The Tennessee General Assembly as the body issuing the commendation; the broader community that benefits from the school’s recognition.

Procedural History and Timeline

  • 2025-04-07: Introduced.
  • 2025-04-09 to 2025-04-11: Passed first and second readings; placed on Senate consent calendar.
  • 2025-04-14: Engrossed and adopted on the Senate side (unanimous).
  • 2025-04-16: Concurred by the House (Ayes 96, Nays 0).
  • 2025-04-24: Enrolled and transmitted; signed by Senate leadership; ready for the governor’s action.
  • 2025-04-25: Transmitted to Governor for action; signed by the Governor on 2025-05-02.

Fiscal/Policy Impact

  • None anticipated. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not impose new duties, reallocate funds, or change state law.

Summary of Significance

SJR 409 formalizes Tennessee’s recognition of South Knox Elementary School’s national achievement, aligning the local educational community with national standards of excellence. It serves as an official commendation from the General Assembly and may bolster community pride without altering any statutory provisions.

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

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