The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 120A.41, to modify the requirements for hours of instruction in schools. It establishes specific minimum hours of instruction for different educational levels: 425 hours for kindergarten, 935 hours for grades 1-6, and 1,020 hours for grades 7-12, excluding summer school. Additionally, it mandates that all-day kindergarten must have at least 850 hours of instruction, while prekindergarten programs must include at least 350 hours if offered. The bill also allows for up to five days of online instruction due to inclement weather, with plans developed according to existing regulations.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subdivision that defines hours of instruction in secondary schools, emphasizing that these hours encompass all educational experiences that allow students to earn academic credit, are available to all enrolled students, and are supervised by qualified teachers. It clarifies that educational experiences can occur outside regular school hours but not beyond the school year, and it ensures that districts cannot deny students access to required services, including special education. The Department of Education is tasked with regularly reviewing its policies to support districts in providing a range of educational opportunities, and the bill specifies that it does not alter pupil units under chapter 126C. The changes take effect the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 120A.41