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Committee approves phase-out of Achievement School District and creates three-tier intervention system for priority schools
Summary
The House Education Committee voted to advance legislation that sunsets the state-run Achievement School District (ASD), creates a three-tier intervention framework for priority schools and allows local education agencies to choose evidence-based interventions or expert supports. The bill moves to the finance committee for further consideration.
The House Education Committee voted to advance House Bill 1307 (as amended) to the finance committee, approving language that sunsets the Achievement School District (ASD) and replaces its model with a three-tier intervention system for priority schools.
Sponsor comments described the ASD as an intensive, state-run intervention program created around 2010 for schools in the bottom 5 percent of performance. The measure rewrites the code to provide local education agencies a menu of three tiers: (1) LEA‑selected evidence-based interventions or contracting with a school turnaround expert; (2) an LEA‑implemented intervention run by a turnaround expert, conversion to charter, transfer of operation to a public higher-education institution, or voluntary reconstitution; and (3) school closure or mandated reconstitution with planning and department oversight. The bill also makes available a state-funded pilot to support turnaround experts and expands intervention options to all priority schools.
Representatives and Department of Education officials discussed funding and clarified that federal funds and existing formula weights for economically disadvantaged students can support interventions. Department witness Jack Powers said funds are available through federal intervention programs and that certain funding weights exist through Tennessee’s K–12 funding formula (TISA) for districts with concentrated poverty.
Supporters argued the approach returns more control to local districts and broadens options for districts with priority schools; critics cited past ASD difficulties but acknowledged some isolated successes. Committee members approved amendments that adjusted start dates and cross references. The committee voted to send the bill to finance by recorded vote.
