New legislation affecting public education in Tennessee will take effect in 2023

Several new laws that will impact public education in Tennessee have been passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor. These laws cover various topics such as curriculum, health, sports, and security.

One of the most controversial laws is the ban on teaching critical race theory or any related concepts in public schools. Critical race theory is an academic framework that examines how racism and oppression are embedded in social structures and institutions. The law prohibits any instruction that implies that one race or sex is inherently superior or inferior to another, or that individuals are responsible for past actions of their race or sex. The law also allows parents to sue schools if they violate this ban.

Another law that has drawn criticism is the one that restricts transgender students from participating in school sports that match their gender identity, unless they have a birth certificate that confirms it. The law states that allowing transgender students to compete in sports according to their gender identity would create unfair advantages and disadvantages for other athletes. Opponents of the law argue that it discriminates against transgender students and violates their civil rights.

Some of the other laws that will affect public schools in 2023 are:

- A law that requires schools to notify parents of any sexual education curriculum and allow them to opt out their children from it. The law also prohibits any instruction that promotes or normalizes sexual activity among minors, or that endorses or advocates for abortion.

- A law that mandates schools to provide menstrual products for free to students who need them. The law aims to address the issue of period poverty, which refers to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products due to financial constraints.

- A law that permits teachers and staff to carry concealed firearms on school grounds, if they have a valid permit and undergo training. The law intends to enhance school safety and deter potential shooters.

These laws have elicited various reactions and criticisms from different groups and individuals, such as educators, parents, students, activists, and lawmakers. Some support these laws as necessary measures to protect students' rights, health, and safety, while others oppose them as harmful policies that infringe on students' diversity, inclusion, and well-being.