House Bill 326, also known as Senate Bill 631, proposes to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, by establishing March 3 of each year as "Sister Sandra Smithson Day." This day is intended to honor Sister Sandra Olivia Smithson for her significant contributions to education and her advocacy for low-income families. Sister Smithson, who dedicated sixty-seven years to religious service and educational initiatives, founded Nashville's first charter school, Smithson Craighead Academy, and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children in her community.
The bill specifies that "Sister Sandra Smithson Day" is not a legal holiday as defined in section 15-1-101, ensuring that while the day is recognized for its commemorative purpose, it does not alter the status of public holidays. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of Sister Smithson's legacy in the state of Tennessee.