Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to make changes in the requirements for teacher candidates in Minnesota by removing an existing assessment requirement and modifying student teacher placement rules.

Main Provisions

• Performance Assessment Removal: The bill mandates the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board to stop requiring the edTPA performance assessment for teacher candidates. This means candidates will no longer need to complete this assessment to qualify for their teaching licenses.
• Student Teacher Placement: It requires that student teachers be placed within 30 miles of their preferred location or school site. Exceptions can be made if both the teacher preparatory program and the candidate agree to a placement beyond this distance.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Discontinuation of edTPA: The removal of the requirement for the edTPA assessment signifies a shift away from standardized testing for teacher candidates, potentially easing the path to obtaining teaching licenses.
• Proximity Requirement for Placements: The introduction of a geographic limit for student teacher placements provides candidates more control over their placements, likely intended to reduce travel burdens and enhance alignment with personal and professional preferences.

Relevant Terms

• edTPA
• Student Teacher Placement
• Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board
• Teacher Candidates
• Minnesota Rules 8705.2100 and 8705.1010