TN Dept of Education

Tennessee is committed to supporting student success and has made meaningful investments to accelerate literacy across the state: 📚 $27M for Adolescent Literacy 📚 $5.9M for Innovative Tutoring 📚 $1.75M for Early Literacy These investments are helping build stronger readers and brighter futures across Tennessee. 🎉

Tennessee serves more than 900,000 students, and every one of them matters. Behind each student is a strong, dedicated educator devoted to making a difference. TeachReadyTN is committed to supporting the people who make student success possible.🍎✨

Today, the department announced that Commissioner Reynolds was awarded an Honorary Degree by the @TNFFAFoundation, which is awarded to individuals who have rendered outstanding service to the FFA and agricultural education at the state level. Read more: tn.gov/education/news…

Last week, Riley had a fantastic time at the Leadership Workshop in Sevier County alongside the Literacy Association of Tennessee, Winstead Elementary, and Sunset Elementary. Riley loved seeing so many smiling faces and hearing such wonderful stories! We are inspired by the passion, collaboration, and commitment to strengthening literacy across our state. #ReadLikeRiley

Riley had such a fun time visiting Broadview Elementary and Cowan Elementary in Franklin County Schools and Sweetwater Primary in Sweetwater City Schools. Riley enjoyed hearing students share their stories, explore their learning, and show off their growing reading skills. #ReadLikeRiley

We’re thrilled to welcome wildlife biologist and conservationist Jeff Corwin as our keynote speaker at the TN STEM Innovation Summit! Drop your questions in the comments below. Don’t miss this keynote experience. Register now: tsin.org/summit #TNSTEM @TNedu

TN DISTRICTS: Help us recognize the employer partners that provide your students with valuable work-based learning opportunities and help improve student outcomes! Nominate your partner as a TN Flagship Industry Partner by May 1.

Teachers are the #1 in-school factor influencing student achievement, which is why the TeachReadyTN initiative supports educator preparation, compensation, staffing, and systems that meet educators' needs—because every student deserves a qualified teacher. Learn more: tn.gov/education/teac…

Riley has been on the move this March Literacy Month, spreading excitement and a love for reading across Tennessee! From Union City Elementary in Northwest Tennessee to Capshaw Elementary in Middle Tennessee to Calhoun Elementary in East Tennessee, Riley loved seeing students engaged, educators shining, and classrooms full of joy for learning. #ReadLikeRiley

TN FAMILIES: The first ESA Program application window for the 2026-27 school year closes today, March 16, at 4:00 p.m. CT, and the second application window opens on April 15 at noon CT. This program helps eligible low-income students access high-quality, non-public education options that best meet their needs. Apply today here: tn.gov/education/esa.…

Last week, the Department hosted the 19th Annual CSH Institute, bringing together 700 district and school leaders from across the state to collaborate and strengthen the connection between health, well-being, and student success. Leaders were also recognized for their outstanding efforts in connecting health and well-being to academics. The event concluded with an inspiring conversation featuring CMA and ACM award-winning artist Tracy Lawrence, his wife Becca, and the team behind Mission: Possible.

Last week, Riley had a great time visiting students at Altruria Elementary in Bartlett City Schools and Austin Peay Elementary in Tipton County Schools. Students shared their best tips for becoming great readers, invited Riley to join the READ-A-THON, and showed just how much they love reading and learning. 🦝📚 #ReadLikeRiley

TeachReadyTN is a comprehensive approach to the human capital strategy, highlighting and spreading promising practices across Tennessee. The goal of the initiative is to provide high-quality resources and supports that empower districts to design and implement locally driven solutions that are responsive to their unique needs. Learn more: tn.gov/education/teac…

Last week, the Tennessee State Junior Chef Competition brought together top high school culinary teams from across the state. Students created innovative recipes using locally sourced ingredients that meet National School Lunch Program standards, with dishes judged by culinary experts. Congratulations to the 2026 winners: 🥇Cherokee High School (Hawkins County Schools)🥈Coffee County Central High School (Coffee County Schools) 🥉Warren County High School (Warren County Schools) The first-place team will advance to the Southeast Region Junior Chef Competition to compete for additional scholarship funding.

The department's Division of Coordinated School Health worked with @RELtullahoma in @TCSPublic to develop a spotlight video showcasing the exemplary work happening that supported their recognition as Tennessee's only All-Star recognized school by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Take a look! youtu.be/g2QNow1msbA?si…

TN Educators: Don't forget, the 2026 Tennessee Educator Survey is open! 📝This annual survey gives educators the opportunity to elevate their voices by sharing their classroom experiences and perspectives. The survey will remain open through April 10. Learn more on our website!

Riley the Reading Raccoon is traveling across the state for March Literacy Month. 🦝📚 Last week, Riley had the BEST day at White County Schools, visiting Findlay Elementary and Cassville Elementary. We love to see these students immersed in their reading classes!! #ReadLikeRiley

TN school leaders: Take the 2026 #TNEdSurvey and help identify strengths and areas for improvement in your school district. Check your email for a link to complete. The survey closes April 10! @TNedu @TNEdResAlliance