Textbook Commission reviews guidelines for Tennessee's upcoming textbook adoption cycle

The Tennessee Textbook Commission held a pivotal Pre-Bid Conference on February 18, 2025, aimed at guiding publishers through the upcoming textbook adoption cycle for Schedule E, which includes subjects like Science, Health, and CTE information technology. Executive Director Lee Houston emphasized the importance of aligning all submitted materials with 100% of Tennessee's academic standards, a requirement established in 2021.

Houston outlined several key submission guidelines for publishers. First, all materials must include a standards alignment guide, either embedded within the content or provided as a separate document. This guide is crucial for reviewers to easily locate how the materials meet state standards. Publishers are also encouraged to submit a video overview of their textbooks, focusing on content relevant to the review process, rather than supplementary materials.

Additionally, Houston specified that submissions must be organized clearly, with essential materials listed on the first tab of the exhibit template and additional resources on a second tab. This structure is designed to streamline the review process and ensure compliance with state standards.

The deadline for submitting bid documents is set for March 10, 2024, at 10 AM Central Time, with no exceptions for late submissions. Houston reminded attendees that the Textbook Commission operates independently from the Tennessee Department of Education, directing all inquiries related to the adoption cycle to the commission's official email.

This conference marks a significant step in ensuring that Tennessee students receive high-quality educational materials, reinforcing the state's commitment to educational excellence.