HF2741

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify teacher licensure regulations, transfer certain grant program responsibilities from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) to the Minnesota Department of Education, and initiate several new reporting requirements and appropriations.

Main Provisions

• Teacher Licensure Modifications: The bill proposes changes to the existing teacher licensure rules, clarifying the process for licensure via portfolio and adding requirements like cultural competency and mental illness training for license renewal.
• Grant Transfers: The bill transfers grant administration responsibilities from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board to the Department of Education. This includes grants aimed at increasing the racial and ethnic diversity of the teaching workforce across Minnesota.
• Reports and Advisory Councils: Requires comprehensive reporting on programs intended to diversify Minnesota’s teacher workforce. This includes a proposal for a state advisory council on the issue.
• Mentoring and Retention Programs: Reinforces and expands mentoring, induction, and retention programs, especially targeting teachers of color and in shortage areas.
• Appropriations and Funding: Allocates funds to support various educational programs, such as competitive grant awards for promoting diversity in teaching staff and marketing campaigns to recruit teachers from underrepresented groups.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Grant Program Administration: Shifts from PELSB to the Department of Education, including the management of grants related to teacher diversification and mentorship.
• Expanded Reporting Requirements: New requirements dictate that both the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board and the Department of Education must report on diversity initiatives and placements, targeting racial and ethnic diversity and effectiveness.
• Quicker and Decentralized Licensing Process: Streamlines the licensure via portfolio process, making it more accessible for non-traditional candidates entering the teaching profession.
• Increased Collaboration: Stipulates collaboration across various educational bodies, including involving community partners in developing reports on teacher diversity.
• Expanded Support Programs: Provides structured support, such as cohorts for retaining teaching candidates from minority groups, and detailed assessments of mentoring programs.

Relevant Terms

• Teacher Licensure
• Grant Programs
• Diversity in Education
• Teacher of Color
• American Indian Teachers
• Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)
• Minnesota Department of Education
• Cultural Competency Training
• Mentorship and Retention Programs
• Alternative Pathways in Education