Minnesota Senate Bill SF3061

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

Teacher licensure requirements modification related to the Read Act

Impact

The legislation sets forth clear expectations for teacher training and local educational practices, intending to elevate the quality of reading instruction across Minnesota schools. Furthermore, it mandates annual updates to local literacy plans, requiring districts to report on various performance metrics related to literacy training and student outcomes. This will involve the scrutiny of curricula used in classrooms to ensure alignment with evidence-based practices, thereby centralizing accountability in enhancing literacy achievements among students, particularly those in early education and special education.

Summary

SF3061 aims to modify teacher licensure requirements in relation to the Minnesota Read Act. The bill proposes that beginning July 1, 2025, all Tier 1 and Tier 2 licensed teachers responsible for teaching reading must complete evidence-based structured literacy training as a prerequisite for their license renewals. This is a significant change designed to enhance the effectiveness of reading instruction by ensuring teachers are well-prepared to meet diverse learning needs and to adhere to scientifically-informed practices in literacy education. As part of this effort, districts must develop local literacy plans that align with the Read Act and monitor the progress of their students in reading skills.

Contention

The adjustment of licensure requirements could spark debates among educators and administrators concerning the practicality of mandatory training, including the resources and time needed to implement these changes effectively. Opponents may express concerns regarding the potential burden this creates on schools, especially in regards to staffing shortages and the ability to find qualified teachers to meet the new criteria. Additionally, there may be discussions about maintaining local flexibility in designing and implementing effective literacy programs while adhering to state-imposed standards.