Senate Bill 631, also known as House Bill 326, proposes to establish March 3 of each year as "Sister Sandra Smithson Day" in Tennessee. This day is intended to honor Sister Sandra Olivia Smithson, an influential educator and advocate for low-income families, particularly Black and Latino children. Sister Smithson's contributions include founding Nashville's first charter school, Smithson Craighead Academy, and her extensive work in education across various regions, including the United States and South America. The bill emphasizes her dedication to improving educational opportunities for children in need.
The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, by adding a new section that designates this observance day, while clarifying that it is not a legal holiday as defined in section 15-1-101. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, reflecting the public welfare's requirement for its implementation.