This bill modifies teacher licensure requirements in Minnesota by introducing new professional development mandates focused on dyslexia. Specifically, it amends existing statutes to require that teachers renewing their Tier 1 and Tier 2 licenses complete two hours of professional development training on dyslexia, which includes understanding its impact on reading skills and effective instructional strategies. The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is tasked with developing this training, ensuring it is accessible at no cost to teachers or districts. Additionally, new teachers must complete this training within one year of receiving their initial license, while those renewing their licenses must do so within one year of renewal.

The bill also updates the renewal criteria for Tier 1 licenses by adding a requirement for dyslexia training, alongside existing requirements such as cultural competency training. The amendments specify that the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board must adopt rules for these training requirements and clarify that the new provisions will take effect for all licenses issued on or after July 1, 2027. This legislative change aims to enhance teacher preparedness in addressing the needs of students with dyslexia, thereby improving educational outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 122A.181, 122A.182, 122A.187