The bill amends the Read Act to enhance literacy education in Minnesota by establishing an Office of Achievement and Innovation within the Department of Education. This office will oversee the implementation of evidence-based literacy curricula and professional development programs, ensuring that public schools utilize instructional materials grounded in scientific research to promote foundational literacy and grade-level reading proficiency. Key provisions include the introduction of a school performance report system, which will allow stakeholders to compare school performance based on proficiency rates, attendance, and graduation rates, with a deadline for implementation set for July 1, 2026. The bill also mandates that applicants for Tier 3 and Tier 4 licenses in elementary education pass an examination on the science of reading.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive materials and equitable access to literacy resources. It modifies the P-TECH approval process and requires the Department of Education to partner with the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) to identify and approve literacy intervention models that reflect diverse populations, with this partnership set to expire on June 30, 2025. The bill also introduces provisions for innovation zones within school districts, allowing for the creation of plans that enhance student outcomes through postsecondary credits and technical education programs. Furthermore, it provides funding flexibility for school districts and charter schools, allowing them to transfer unencumbered funds between operating accounts without increasing state aid obligations or property tax authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 120B.118, 120B.119, 120B.123, 120B.124, 122A.091, 122A.185, 124D.085, 124D.093