NASHVILLE, TN (WGNS) - Professional Educators of Tennessee publicly thanks Tennessee Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds for what the organization calls a prompt, decisive, and gracious response to the winter storms that disrupted school schedules across the state. With districts from West Tennessee to the Cumberland Plateau losing multiple instructional days, the teacher's group says the commissioner’s willingness to consider flexibility around TCAP testing arrived at exactly the right moment.
The conversation began when Professional Educators of Tennessee (PET) contacted the Tennessee Department of Education to express concerns about how the severe weather might affect testing readiness. In her written reply, Commissioner Reynolds assured the organization that the department is “actively reviewing options to provide districts with flexibility, including the potential for extending the assessment window, to ensure all students and educators are supported during this time.” PET leaders say that message provided clarity and relief for school systems still working to regain their footing.
JC Bowman, executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee, said, "The commissioner’s tone and timeliness stood out. In an era when civility can often seem lacking, Commissioner Reynolds’s leadership on this issue shines as a beacon of collaboration and proactive problem‑solving."
He added that, "Her team’s responsiveness has been invaluable as schools navigate the unexpected challenges brought on by the storms."
Bowman also emphasized how meaningful it is when state leaders demonstrate a genuine commitment to the needs of students, educators, and families. “It’s refreshing to collaborate with state leaders who genuinely prioritize the needs of our students, educators, and parents in our communities. Our organization is optimistic about Tennessee’s potential to lead the nation in transforming public education into lasting opportunities.”
Professional Educators of Tennessee, a non‑partisan teacher association based in Nashville, encourages anyone seeking further comment to contact Patrick Basnett at 615‑778‑0803 or email him at patrick.basnett@proedtn.org.
