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HJR 1302

Memorials, Retirement - Gwyn Jennings -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Clark Boyd

The bill formally honors Gwyn Jennings for 34 years of impactful teaching, leadership in literacy and technology, and community involvement at Coles Ferry Elementary.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 1302

Summary of Bill: HJR 1302 (Session 114, Tennessee)

Title

A Joint Resolution to honor Gwyn Jennings on the occasion of her retirement from teaching.

Purpose and Intent

  • Recognizes and pays tribute to Gwyn Jennings for her 34-year career as an educator at Coles Ferry Elementary School, part of the Lebanon Special School District.
  • Acknowledges her contributions to literacy, technology integration, peer leadership, and community/faith-based activities.
  • Condolences and best wishes extended for a fulfilling retirement.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Formal resolution commemorating Gwyn Jennings’ professional achievements and dedication in the classroom.
  • Highlights of her career:
    • 34-year tenure at Coles Ferry Elementary School.
    • 20 years as a first-grade teacher; authored a comprehensive literacy program emphasizing early intervention and diagnostic assessment.
    • 14 years as the school-wide technology curriculum lead for grades K–5, focusing on balancing digital literacy with academic rigor and using technology for creativity and problem-solving.
    • Roles as social media coordinator for the school and producer of the student TV show “CFE tv.”
    • Recognition as Coles Ferry Teacher of the Year (2007, 2021) and District Teacher of the Year (2007).
    • Mentorship and professional development roles for new teachers; peer coaching.
    • Faith community leadership: founder/supporter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Coles Ferry; serves as children’s education curriculum coordinator and teacher at Rural Hill Church of Christ.
    • Educational background: BS in Education from Tennessee Technological University; MS in Reading from Middle Tennessee State University.
  • Declares retirement effective at the end of the current school year; notes that the teaching position will be filled but acknowledges her irreplaceable impact.

Who/What is Affected

  • Gwyn Jennings: Individual honoree whose career and retirement are being recognized.
  • Coles Ferry Elementary School (Lebanon Special School District): Institution highlighted for her long-term service and leadership.
  • Coles Ferry students and staff: Beneficiaries of her literacy and technology initiatives, mentorship, and leadership.
  • Local community: Beneficiary of her faith-based and school-community contributions.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • The resolution is a ceremonial document in the Tennessee General Assembly.
  • Timeline based on the action history:
    • Introduced and referred in early April 2026; subsequently adopted by the House and Senate.
    • Passed House (April 7, 2026) and Senate (April 13–16, 2026 actions), with signatures completing the process.
    • Transmitted to the Governor for action on April 16, 2026; Governor signed following those actions.
  • Final form allows for presentation of an appropriate copy, omitting certain final formal language.

Significance

  • Serves as formal recognition by the Tennessee General Assembly of a dedicated educator’s impact on students, literacy, technology integration, and community engagement.
  • Provides a public, bipartisan tribute that can be shared with the school, family, and community.

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

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