The bill introduces significant changes to Minnesota's education system, particularly in the areas of social studies and ethnic studies. It suspends the adoption of new social studies standards, delaying the review cycle from the 2020-2021 school year to the 2030-2031 school year. Additionally, the bill repeals existing ethnic studies requirements and cancels related appropriations, effectively removing the obligation for school districts and charter schools to offer ethnic studies courses. The language regarding the embedding of ethnic studies into academic standards has been deleted, indicating a clear shift away from these educational mandates.

Moreover, the bill amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes, including the removal of definitions and requirements for ethnic studies from the curriculum. It also mandates that the commissioner of education ensure that academic standards in other subjects, such as mathematics and science, are reviewed and aligned with state standards. The bill emphasizes the need for a long-term plan to address disparities in academic achievement and access to diverse teachers, while requiring school districts to develop strategies that validate and integrate the cultural strengths of all students. The base funding for fiscal year 2026 is reduced, and school districts must continue to provide instruction in social studies based on the 2012 standards until new ones are adopted. The effective date for these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 120B.021, 120B.024, 120B.11, 124D.861