Department Seeks Public Input on Textbook Review

Nashville, TN - Textbooks being considered for use in Tennessee public schools beginning with the 2009-10 school year are on display for public review at 10 sites across the state (see chart below). Tennessee is in the process of adopting new textbooks in the areas of science, health, physical education/wellness, agricultural education and family and consumer sciences.

“It is important for the adoption of our school’s textbooks to be an open and thorough process,” Education Commissioner Timothy Webb said. “This is an opportunity for parents, educators and community members to give valuable feedback on textbooks being considered as tools in student learning.”

The textbook approval process determines which textbooks school systems may use. The Tennessee Textbook Commission will discuss public feedback with textbook publishers at a meeting September 10-11. The Commission will vote on books to be recommended for the Official List of Textbooks at their meeting October 6-7. The State Board of Education must approve the final list.

“It is very important for the public to have access to the textbooks under consideration,” said Morgan Branch, Director of Textbook Services for the Tennessee Department of Education. “Our goal is to provide a wide variety of materials that enrich and support the curriculum, and to address the varied interests, abilities and learning styles of students.”

A state review committee of 33 public school teachers also assists the Textbook Commission in their evaluation of textbooks being considered.

Before the September meeting, public comments or questions about the textbook adoption process should be directed to:
    Morgan Branch, Director of Textbook Services
    TN Department of Education, 5th floor
    Andrew Johnson Tower
    710 James Robertson Parkway
    Nashville, TN  37243
    OR (615) 253-3160

For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.