49-6-109 - Study of the effectiveness of the programs. - Tennessee Statutes

49-6-109. Study of the effectiveness of the programs.

(a)  The office of education accountability shall coordinate a study of the effectiveness of pre-kindergarten programs authorized under §§ 49-6-103 49-6-108, this section and §  49-6-110. The study shall specifically assess the effectiveness of the pre-kindergarten programs on student achievement, both short term effects and long term effects. Effectiveness may be assessed by analyzing data, including test scores, readiness assessments, curriculum evaluations or other relevant data sources, gathered and maintained in a statistically valid manner. At a minimum student achievement shall be determined by analysis of:

     (1)  Data from norm-referenced test scores from standardized tests administered in kindergarten through grade two (K-2);

     (2)  Data from criterion-referenced test scores from standardized tests administered in grades three through five (3-5); and

     (3)  Variables related to student achievement, student demographic characteristics, pre-kindergarten program characteristics and elementary school characteristics.

(b)  The office is authorized to engage one (1) or more independent evaluators to assess the effectiveness of the pre-kindergarten  programs.

[Acts 2005, ch. 312, § 1; 2007, ch. 357, § 1.]