Minnesota Senate Bill SF3759

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

The Read Act modifications and appropriations

Impact

The bill mandates that surrounding measures be taken for the preparation and performance data of educators, enhancing transparency and accountability in teacher training programs. It requires annual reporting of performance outcomes on teacher and administrator preparation, including data disaggregated by race. Significant funding of $35 million for 2024 and $50 million for 2025 is allocated to school districts, charter schools, and cooperative units for reimbursement for evidence-based literacy supports, promoting structured literacy across various educational institutions.

Summary

SF3759, titled 'The Read Act modifications and appropriations,' aims to enhance literacy education across Minnesota. This bill amends existing statutes related to education, particularly focusing on literacy instruction in public schools. The objective is to ensure that reading instruction is founded on evidence-based practices, as indicated by its emphasis on the 'science of reading.' This would involve utilizing curriculums, instructional materials, and teacher training conducive to improving reading proficiency for students from prekindergarten through grade 12.

Contention

Notable contention around SF3759 may arise from differing views on the approaches employed in literacy instruction. The bill specifically prohibits the so-called 'three-cueing system,' an instructional practice that some educators may advocate for. Consequently, opponents might argue that such restrictions could limit instructional flexibility and inhibit teachers' ability to cater to individual student needs. Additionally, there is potential for debate regarding the appropriateness of funding allocations and whether they adequately serve the diverse needs of Minnesota's education system.