MN SF636

Establishes a tiered licensure system with probationary, standard, distinguished, and exemplary teacher licenses based on student achievement growth and performance ratings under a new teacher appraisal framework.

Requires school districts and charter schools to implement a teacher appraisal system where at least 50 percent of the evaluation consists of student achievement growth, with specific effectiveness ratings ("highly effective," "effective," "average," "needs improvement," "ineffective") tied to years of student growth.

Changes continuing contract system from indefinite tenure to three-year renewal periods, requiring districts to make tenure continuation decisions every three years based on professional growth plans, appraisal results, and locally selected criteria.

Modifies staff development requirements to emphasize job-embedded professional development, peer coaching, and mentoring programs, with focus on improving student achievement aligned to standards.

Adds provisions for licensure-based bonuses: 10 percent salary bonus for distinguished license holders and 20 percent for exemplary license holders, effective July 1, 2019.