MN HF1942

Establishes the Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council within the Department of Education with 15-25 members appointed by the commissioner of education to advise on reducing racial and ethnic disparities in education.

Council membership must include representation from racial and ethnic minority groups, tribal service providers, cultural advocacy groups, parents, students, faith communities, Department employees, and legislative committee chairs.

Commissioner of education shall maintain the council, identify education rules and policies affecting underserved populations, review department policies perpetuating disparities, and submit legislation to reduce disparities and improve outcomes.

Council duties include recommending policy changes to address disparities, identifying disparities through community engagement, providing technical assistance to school districts and service providers, and raising awareness about education inequities.

Council members serve one or two-year terms without compensation and must attend meetings, maintain constituency communication, and collaborate on disparity reduction efforts; council does not expire unless directed by the commissioner.