Tennessee names Top Schools for Achievement, Growth in 2011-12

Reward Schools located in 70 districts across the state in cities and rural areas

Brentwood, TN – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman today announced 169 schools as the 2011-12 Reward Schools, the top 5 percent of schools in the state for annual growth and the top 5 percent for academic achievement.

For Henry County, the Reward Schools are E.W. Grove School and Lakewood Elementary School both listed for progress and performance.

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Tennessee Names 2011-12 Exemplary School Districts

Henry County Schools make 2011-12 List

Sevierville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Education today recognized school districts across the state that significantly improved student performance and narrowed achievement gaps under Tennessee’s new accountability system.

At an event in Sevier County, Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman announced the 21 districts that earned Exemplary designations for the 2011-12 school year. [Read more]

U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan congratulates Tennesssee on Student Achievement Gains

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan released a statement Wednesday applauds Tennessee on its continued statewide improvement on the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program, or TCAP.

“Through Race to the Top, Tennessee took on extraordinarily difficult work in a relatively short period of time,” said Duncan. “Early signs of widespread academic progress are not only encouraging but inspiring, and will help lay the ground work for further success as Tennessee continues its commitment to leading the nation in education reform.” [Read more]

Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam unveils Legislative Agenda to move Tennessee Forward

Bills highlight governor’s focus on jobs, education, efficient government and lower taxes

Nashville, TN – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam today announced his priorities for the 2012 legislative session during a press conference where he was joined by legislators in the Old Supreme Court Chamber of the Capitol.

His legislative agenda is designed to move Tennessee forward by supporting his goal to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs through economic development efforts, meaningful education reform, a more efficient and effective state government and improved public safety. [Read more]

Tennessee Board of Regents Revamps Teacher Ed Programs

Nashville, TN – Over the past two years, universities and community colleges in the Tennessee Board of Regents system have been rewriting course schedules, developing mentorships with local school systems, and rethinking the way teachers have traditionally been taught and trained in school.

The initiative is expected to transform education programs across the state and help Tennessee turn the corner on improving teacher and student performance.

“The national debate about teacher quality forced us to do some introspective research,” said Paula Short, TBR vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “We saw a need and developed a growing commitment to collaborate on enhancing teacher quality, not just teacher development.” [Read more]