and challenges they face in their classrooms and
schools. She convened task forces to address
issues at the forefront of Tennessee’s education
conversation such as testing, testing logistics, early
literacy, and teacher preparation.
Teaching. Passage of the First
to the Top Act in 2010 initiated a
The State Board of Education also experienced a
comprehensive effort in Tennessee
leadership transition as Dr. Gary Nixon retired and
to expand access to highly effective
Dr. Sara Heyburn was appointed Executive Director.
teaching throughout the state.
Dr. Heyburn most recently served as the Assistant
This effort included adopting a new
Commissioner of Teachers and Leaders at the
educator evaluation system for most
Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE). Dr.
school districts in Tennessee, the
Heyburn began her career in education as a teacher
Tennessee Educator Acceleration
in Jefferson County Public Schools in Kentucky and
Model (TEAM). This comprehensive,
Williamson County in Tennessee.
student outcomes-based model was among the first
of its kind in the nation.12 Other steps Tennessee
In November 2015, Commissioner McQueen
has taken to ensure access to effective teaching
and Governor Haslam announced that Malika
include offering professional learning opportunities
Anderson, previously Deputy Superintendent at the
on Tennessee’s State Standards; revising the
Achievement School District (ASD), would serve as
state’s Educator Preparation Policy; working to
the new ASD superintendent. Anderson succeeded
better connect professional learning opportunities,
Chris Barbic upon his departure in December 2015.
compensation, and tenure to the teacher evaluation
Anderson has previously served as Chief Schools
system; and partnering with districts to develop
Portfolio Officer for the ASD and as a Broad Resident
innovative teacher leadership models. This section
with the District of Columbia Public Schools’ Office of
describes the implementation of these policies as well
Academic Analysis and Support.
as policy changes that occurred in 2015.
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