SF2072

The bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 2072, proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 124D.094, subdivision 2, concerning digital and online instruction for students. The key provisions include:

1. Online Instruction Requirements

   • Schools may provide digital, blended, or fully online instruction to their enrolled students or through agreements with other schools.
     
   • Teachers conducting online classes must comply with Minnesota teacher licensing rules and can only instruct up to 40 students per course, unless granted a waiver.
     
   • Online curriculum must be aligned with Minnesota academic standards and be accessible under the Rehabilitation Act (Sections 504 and 508) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
     

2. Support for Low-Income Families

   • Districts must assist eligible low-income families (who qualify for the education tax credit under section 290.0674) in acquiring computer hardware and educational software necessary for online learning.
     
   • Public funds used for this purpose can only be spent on qualifying educational expenses, and purchased non-consumable materials remain the property of the provider.
     

3. Attendance and Record-Keeping

   • Schools must document and track daily student attendance for online instruction in compliance with Minnesota attendance laws (section 120A.21).
     

4. New Requirement: Weekly Wellness Checks

   • The bill introduces a mandatory weekly wellness check for students enrolled in online learning.
     
   • A wellness check must:
     
     • Be conducted by an adult who visibly sees and communicates with the student in real-time at least once a week.
       
     • Ensure the student's well-being and identify any concerns.
       
     • Require mandatory reporting of any suspected child abuse or maltreatment in accordance with Minnesota’s child protection laws (chapter 260E).
       

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance student well-being and engagement in digital learning by ensuring regular adult contact and monitoring, particularly for students in full-time online programs.