The bill amends the existing Read Act in Minnesota to enhance literacy education by implementing a structured approach to reading instruction based on scientific research. It establishes an Office of Achievement and Innovation within the Department of Education to oversee the adoption of evidence-based literacy practices and curricula. The bill mandates public schools to utilize instructional materials grounded in scientific research to promote foundational literacy and grade-level reading proficiency. It also introduces a new definition of "science-based reading research" and outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Education in collaboration with the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) to support districts in these initiatives. Notably, the bill removes references to the three-cueing system and emphasizes the need for culturally and linguistically responsive materials in literacy curricula.

In addition to literacy enhancements, the bill revises various sections of Minnesota Statutes to improve the reporting and assessment of educational programs. It requires detailed reporting on administrator preparation programs, including faculty qualifications and graduation rates disaggregated by race. The bill mandates that applicants for Tier 3 and Tier 4 licenses in elementary education pass an examination on the science of reading. It also establishes a school performance report system for stakeholders to compare school performance metrics. Furthermore, the bill allows for the creation of innovation zone plans within school districts to enhance student outcomes and provides exemptions for innovation zone partners from certain state education laws, promoting flexibility while maintaining accountability. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen literacy education and foster innovation in educational practices.

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