The bill establishes an Academic Acceleration Pilot Program in Minnesota aimed at increasing access to advanced coursework in six selected school districts or charter schools from the 2026-2027 to 2028-2029 school years.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Automatic Enrollment:

   • Participating schools must adopt a policy that automatically enrolls eligible students in advanced coursework (Advanced Placement, Postsecondary Enrollment Options, or Honors courses) in language arts, mathematics, or science.
   • Eligibility is based on students meeting or exceeding state standards on statewide assessments or earning top grades in prior coursework.
   • Parents have the option to opt out of automatic enrollment.

2. Participation Requirements:

   • Prioritization of teacher recruitment and training, including recruiting teachers of color and providing necessary credentials at no cost.
   • Advanced notification to parents and guardians at least two weeks before the start of the school year about automatic enrollment policies and benefits.
   • Schools must identify and offer tutoring and academic support for students struggling in advanced courses.
   • Schools must collect and report data on participation rates, success rates, and demographic breakdowns.

3. Grant Funding:

   • State grants will be provided to cover costs such as Advanced Placement exam fees, teacher training, textbooks/materials, tutoring, administrative expenses, and bonuses for teachers based on student performance.

4. Pilot Program Selection:

   • Schools must apply for participation, outlining how grant funds would increase access to advanced coursework.
   • At least one district must serve a high percentage of American Indian students.
   • The Commissioner of Education will ensure diversity in school type (urban, suburban, non-urban, and charter schools).

5. Statewide Report and Legislative Recommendations:

   • By January 1, 2030, the Minnesota Commissioner of Education must submit a report to the Legislature summarizing:
     • Student participation and completion rates.
     • Teacher recruitment and demographics.
     • Types of advanced coursework implemented.
     • Feedback from participating schools.
   • The report must include recommendations on introducing a statewide academic acceleration program.

Summary:

This bill seeks to expand access to advanced coursework for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, by introducing automatic enrollment based on academic performance. It provides funding for training, materials, and support systems while collecting data to assess the program's success and recommend possible statewide implementation.