2015-16 State of Education in Tennessee | Page 8

The first portion of this report details updates on policies and programs that have been developed The second part of this and implemented over the past year. This section is report presents priorities for organized into three pillars that guide and organize the coming year in education. SCORE SCORE’s work as an organization: has identified these priorities through extensive • Empowering People: Every classroom, policymakers, and the members of SCORE’s Steering school, and district must be led by passionate Committee. These priorities are meant to guide the and effective teachers, principals, and district work of all education partners in Tennessee: leaders, which requires efforts to better recruit, develop, and retain high-quality • Implement TNReady and Aligned Interim talent. These individuals in turn need to feel Assessments. Ensure students, educators, equipped and empowered to engage in their and district leaders have the support communities to advocate for what is needed and resources they need to successfully to drive student success. implement TNReady and aligned interim • Insisting on High Expectations: Rigorous standards aligned to quality assessments set the clear expectation that all Tennessee students are capable of a high level of achievement. • Fostering a Culture of Innovation: A culture of innovation extends from the system level through each school and classroom. The policies and resources that govern schools must create an environment where innovation can thrive. 7 conversations with educators, community leaders, assessments. District assessment systems should protect instructional time while also providing educators with the information they need to support improved student learning. Educators and policymakers should remain committed to full implementation in the coming academic year. • Ensure Equitable Outcomes for Historically Underserved Populations. Develop and implement programs and policies that will yield improved academic