SF2123

This Minnesota Senate bill (S.F. No. 2123) would appropriate funding for teacher apprenticeship programs for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the workforce development fund. The funding would reimburse school districts for apprenticeship program costs. The bill outlines key requirements for these programs, including:

1. Involvement by school districts to ensure apprentices develop teaching skills.
2. Structured on-the-job training with experienced mentors.
3. Related instruction from an approved teacher training program.
4. Wage increases as apprentices develop higher skill levels.
5. A structured training path leading to a Tier 3 teaching license.

School districts are eligible for funding and encouraged to collaborate with higher education institutions, other school districts, charter schools, and cooperative units. Districts may integrate teacher residency or "Grow Your Own" programs into these apprenticeships and combine this funding with other teacher recruitment programs.

The commissioner of education, in consultation with the labor and industry commissioner and the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB), would be responsible for determining funding distribution, overseeing the apprenticeship programs, and making recommendations to improve teacher licensure pathways. The commissioner must also report to the legislature on program effectiveness and suggest statutory or rule changes to enhance teacher apprenticeship programs.