Special education forms and procedures due process time requirement provision, due process aid establishment, and appropriation
Impact
The introduction of SF2787 has significant implications for the operation of school districts throughout Minnesota, particularly in how they manage their staff resources and support systems for special education. The bill seeks to alleviate some of the burdens on teachers who work with special education students, ensuring they have structured time to engage in essential administrative tasks associated with student IEPs. The financial aspect of the bill is notable, as it allocates state funds specific to this initiative, thereby formally recognizing the need for dedicated resources in special education.
Summary
SF2787 is a legislative bill that addresses the procedural aspects of special education in Minnesota by mandating a specific time allocation for teachers to complete required due process forms and procedures. Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, the bill requires school districts to use funds to grant teachers four designated contract days for this purpose, ensuring that this requirement helps maintain proper educational standards for students with individualized education programs (IEPs). This time is additional to the teachers' general preparation time as dictated by current laws.
Contention
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards improving the workflow for teachers and service providers, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of funds and the staffing implications for districts. Critics may argue about the practicality of implementing four dedicated days for such administrative tasks and how this could impact existing teacher workloads and student support during those days. Additionally, there could be debates over the legislative budget required to sustain this provision and whether it adequately addresses the diverse needs of special education across varying districts.
Prekindergarten through grade 12 education funding provided; general education, literacy and learning, special education, education innovation, and education excellence provisions modified; and money appropriated.
Education; prekindergarten through grade 12 education provisions modified including general education, education excellence, teachers, special education, charter schools, nutrition and libraries, health and safety, and state agencies; and reports required.
Special education formulas modified, special access cost levy at cooperative units authorized, special education tuition billing limited, and money appropriated.
Prekindergarten through grade 12 provisions modified including general education accountability and transparency, education excellence, American Indian education, charter schools, discipline, teachers, special education, and early learning; and reports required.