Tennessee considers Praxis Bridge to enhance teacher licensure opportunities and accountability

The Tennessee State Board of Education's Licensure Review Committee meeting on June 30, 2025, spotlighted significant changes in educator assessment policies, particularly the introduction of the Praxis Bridge program. This initiative aims to enhance the teacher pipeline by allowing candidates to demonstrate their mastery through alternative measures rather than solely relying on traditional testing methods.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the operational implications of adopting the Praxis Bridge. Currently, candidates who utilize this program do not receive updated score reports, as their assessment scores remain unchanged. Instead, they will receive documentation indicating their completion and mastery in specific areas. This shift necessitates extensive training for stakeholders, including the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE), to ensure proper processing and documentation flow.

The conversation also touched on the need for data from states like Kentucky, which has implemented similar measures. While no external data is available yet, committee members expressed optimism about the potential benefits of multiple assessment measures, particularly for nontraditional candidates who may face barriers with standard testing.

Bob Nardo from Libertas School of Memphis emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards while also addressing teacher shortages. He noted that the Praxis Bridge could help attract capable educators who might otherwise be deterred by initial testing hurdles. The committee acknowledged the need for further investigation into how these changes might affect first-time pass rates and overall accountability for educator preparation programs (EPPs).

As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on refining these policies to ensure they effectively support both candidates and educational standards in Tennessee. The anticipated outcomes include a more diverse teaching workforce and improved pathways for aspiring educators, ultimately benefiting students across the state.