MN SF1528

Teacher preparation programs approved by the Board of Teaching must include instruction on delivering digital and blended learning and engaging students with technology, effective for candidates entering programs after June 30, 2014.

Staff development activities must include training for teachers on digital and blended learning delivery and technology engagement, and school districts must include digital and blended learning as a goal in their staff development plans.

Online learning is redefined as a form of digital learning delivered by approved online learning providers, with new definitions for "digital learning" and "blended learning" added to state law.

Department of Education must approve or disapprove online learning providers within 90 days of application and conduct cyclical three-year reviews using research-based quality standards.

Online Learning Advisory Council must develop a catalog of publicly available digital learning content aligned to Minnesota academic standards by June 30, 2013, and submit recommendations to the legislature by that date; $104,000 is appropriated for fiscal year 2013 with base funding of $26,000 annually thereafter for digital and online learning support.