HF 1270 Summary

• High school students must demonstrate understanding of academic standards on Minnesota comprehensive assessments (replacing nationally normed college entrance exams) to graduate, effective 2015-2016 school year.

• Students enrolled in grade 8 in 2012-2013 or later must take Minnesota comprehensive assessments in grade 9 for writing, grade 10 for reading, and grade 11 for mathematics.

• Commissioner must develop career and college readiness benchmarks and ensure assessments in grades 8 and 10 are predictive of a nationally recognized college entrance exam given in grade 11.

• Students are not required to achieve a specified score or proficiency level on assessments to graduate; alternative assessments are available for students with individualized education programs.

• School districts must use career exploration elements from assessments to help students beginning in grade 9 develop individualized plans for postsecondary education or careers based on interests and aptitudes.