Trends in Tennessee NAEP Scores Pre and Post Teacher Evaluation Implementation

Abstract

Tennessee implemented teacher evaluation reforms in 2011-2012, targeting instructional improvement. Prior to reforms, students performed below national and border state averages. By 2013, significant improvements emerged across 4th and 8th-grade math and reading assessments, with students surpassing border state performances. Performance remained competitive from 2015 to 2019, with steady progress. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a performance decline in 2022, but Tennessee rebounded strongly in 2024, outperforming border states and national averages in math and reading. Our findings suggest targeted educational reforms and investments in educator quality positively influence student achievement.

Suggested Citation

Binsted, K. (2025). Trends in Tennessee NAEP Scores Pre and Post Teacher Evaluation Implementation. (Tennessee Education Research Alliance Working Paper).