MN SF143

Establishes a system of high school assessments for students entering grade 8 in the 2011-2012 school year and later to measure college and career readiness and meet federal accountability requirements.

Requires a grade 10 reading and writing exam that students must pass to graduate, with computer administration, results available within three school days, and opportunities for remediation and retesting.

Establishes end-of-course exams in algebra and biology that count as 25 percent of course grades (or 50 percent for schools identified as "highly misaligned" for two consecutive years) and allows students to retest and select their best score.

Provides alternative methods for students to demonstrate college and career readiness, including transfers from other states, students with IEPs, and English language learners with four or fewer years of enrollment in English-primary schools.

Directs the Assessment Advisory Committee to develop recommendations for alternative methods students may use to meet assessment requirements, including ACT/SAT scores, CLEP exams, and Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate scores, with legislative approval required before implementation.