This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 122A.77, to expand the special education teacher pathway program to include related services providers. The new language specifies that the program will now support not only special education teachers but also related services providers, which include school counselors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists. Applicants seeking funding for a related services provider pathway grant must partner with a regionally accredited college or university or an appropriate preparation program to meet licensure requirements for Tier 3 licensure.

Additionally, the bill establishes a special education teacher and related services provider account within the special revenue fund, with appropriations for the program being transferred to this account. It mandates that grant recipients report on the number of participants and the use of funds annually. The bill also includes provisions for the administration and monitoring of the program, with an annual appropriation of up to $175,000 for these costs. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 122A.77