Senate Bill 246 mandates the Tennessee Department of Education to establish a working group focused on enhancing educational practices for English language learners (EL) in K-12 public schools. The working group will consist of various stakeholders, including directors of EL programs, members of the state board of education, and experienced individuals in the field. Their responsibilities will include studying best practices from other states, gathering input from experts, and exploring strategies to improve educational outcomes for EL students. Specific strategies may involve expanding professional development, creating an EL endorsement for educators, and fostering family involvement in EL instruction.

The bill requires the Department of Education to compile a report detailing the findings and recommendations from the working group, which must be submitted to the relevant education committees by January 1, 2026. The act will take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of addressing the needs of English language learners in Tennessee's public education system.