The bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance literacy education in public schools through the introduction of the "Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act." It emphasizes foundational literacy and grade-level reading proficiency, mandating that evidence-based instruction excludes the three-cueing system and defines "science-based reading research." Additionally, the bill requires professional development training for teachers and staff involved in literacy instruction, with specific compliance deadlines. A partnership between the Department of Education and the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) is established to identify effective literacy curricula and intervention materials, set to expire on June 30, 2025, after which the Department will take over these responsibilities.

Further amendments focus on teacher preparation programs, particularly in reading instruction and administrator preparation. The bill mandates detailed reporting on administrator preparation programs, including faculty qualifications and graduation rates disaggregated by race. It also requires teacher preparation providers to incorporate evidence-based practices aligned with the science of reading and prepare candidates for teaching students with dyslexia. New requirements for Tier 3 and Tier 4 license applicants include passing examinations on the science of reading. The bill includes various effective dates, with some provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025, and others immediately following enactment, while also revising appropriations timelines and requiring an audit of teacher training programs for compliance with reading standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 120B.118, 120B.119, 120B.123, 120B.124, 122A.091, 122A.185
1st Engrossment: 120B.118, 120B.119, 120B.123, 120B.124, 122A.091, 122A.092, 122A.185