MN HF2621

Allows mayors of cities with more than 250,000 residents in the seven-county metropolitan area to govern independent school districts with administrative offices in their city if the mayor submits notice by September 1 and holds public meetings within 90 days.

Mayor appoints all board of education members (equal to current incumbent members plus one) serving staggered two-year terms, plus a chief executive officer who need not hold a superintendent's license and serves under a contract not exceeding three years.

Mayoral governance term lasts ten consecutive school years, after which the district reverts to standard school board governance unless otherwise specified by law; does not affect existing collective bargaining agreements or reduce current board member terms.

Board of education under mayoral control must focus on improving educational outcomes, reducing non-instructional costs, developing long-term financial plans, implementing school-based budgeting, and establishing school site advisory councils with eleven members including principal, teachers, parents, and community residents.

Mayor appoints an education advisory council composed of business, parent, teacher, and nonprofit organization representatives to provide advice; attorney general must address any conflicts with existing law and propose legislation if needed by February 15, 2013.