Tennessee's House Bill 90, introduced on January 28, 2025, aims to enhance accountability measures within the state's education system by refining how student achievement is assessed. The bill proposes amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the indicators used to evaluate school performance.

The key provision of HB 90 mandates that if the Tennessee Department of Education utilizes student performance on postsecondary readiness assessments, such as the ACT or SAT, as a measure of achievement, it must also incorporate results from career readiness assessments. This dual approach ensures that both academic and career readiness are considered when determining school performance. Notably, the bill stipulates that if a student takes both types of assessments, only the higher score will be factored into the school's letter grade, promoting a more favorable evaluation for schools.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among educators and policymakers regarding its potential impact on school accountability. Proponents argue that the inclusion of career readiness assessments will provide a more comprehensive view of student outcomes, aligning educational goals with workforce readiness. Critics, however, express concerns about the increased pressure on students and schools to perform well on multiple assessments, which could lead to a narrow focus on test preparation rather than holistic education.

The implications of HB 90 extend beyond academic performance; it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of career readiness in today's job market. By integrating these assessments, Tennessee aims to better prepare students for both higher education and the workforce, potentially influencing future educational policies and practices.

Set to take effect on July 1, 2025, the bill will apply to school grades issued for the 2025-2026 school year and beyond. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the discussions surrounding HB 90, which could reshape the landscape of educational accountability in Tennessee.