This bill aims to enhance educational support for English learners in Minnesota by introducing several key provisions. It requires the indexing of English learner program revenue to basic education revenue, ensuring that funding is more closely aligned with the needs of these programs. The bill establishes voluntary microcredentials for teachers and administrators working with English learners, mandating the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board to adopt rules that require licensed teachers renewing their licenses to complete professional development focused on best practices for meeting the needs of English learners. Additionally, the bill outlines the distribution of additional revenue generated from this indexing, allocating funds to school districts, the Department of Education for support and accountability, and the creation of an English learner parent and community advisory council.

Furthermore, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to incorporate these changes, including the establishment of best practices for teaching English learners in specific content areas and the introduction of a new revenue structure for students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). The bill also includes appropriations to support the rulemaking processes necessary for implementing these changes, with $30,000 allocated to the Board of School Administrators and $100,000 to the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board for fiscal year 2024. These measures are designed to improve educational outcomes for English learners and ensure that educators are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to support this diverse student population.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 122A.14, 122A.187, 122A.19, 124D.65, 126C.10