MN SF759

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 120B.35 to require the commissioner of education to report annual summary data on four- and six-year graduation rates for at-risk and off-track students beginning July 1, 2015.

Defines "at-risk" students as eighth or ninth graders meeting criteria such as recent English language learner enrollment, 20 percent or greater absenteeism, being two or more years older than grade peers, or failing multiple core academic courses.

Defines "off-track" students as those who are returning dropouts, English language learners older than grade peers, or 16 years or older and two or more academic years behind in graduation progress.

Requires the commissioner to convene an expert group by September 15, 2013 to research and recommend measures for improving graduation outcomes and establishing alternative routes to a standard high school diploma for at-risk and off-track students.

Directs the expert group to submit recommendations and proposed legislation to the commissioner and legislature by February 15, 2014 regarding differentiated graduation rate measures and alternative diploma pathways consistent with the state's educational accountability system.