MN SF1126

Reduces statewide testing requirement from grades 3 through 8 to grades 3 through 7, eliminating grade 8 from the mandatory annual assessment schedule.

Establishes a new contracted assessment system (grades 8, 10, and 11) featuring nationally recognized college entrance exams, college placement diagnostics, and career exploration elements to measure college and career readiness.

Replaces current graduation test requirements with minimum scores on either a college entrance exam or college placement diagnostic exam for students entering grade 8 in the implementation school year or later.

Requires the chancellor of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to validate minimum scores on college entrance and placement exams that demonstrate preparedness for two- and four-year bachelor degree programs and certificate-level programs.

Appropriates $500,000 for fiscal years 2014 and 2015 to support concurrent enrollment teacher training programs and establishes two work groups to address college readiness remediation and student career planning by February 15, 2014.