MN HF246

Establishes mandatory three-year professional review cycles for all teachers including individual growth plans, peer review processes, and summative evaluations performed by qualified evaluators.

Requires teacher evaluation processes to use student growth data and literacy measures to determine 35 percent of evaluation results, with longitudinal data on student engagement and English learner achievement.

Mandates school districts develop teacher mentoring programs for new teachers, teachers of color, teachers needing support, and experienced teachers, with mentor stipends up to $500 funded through staff development revenue.

Requires at least 2 percent of district basic revenue be reserved for staff development, including teacher mentoring, evaluation, professional learning communities, and curriculum development.

Appropriates funds in fiscal year 2016 to the Board of Teaching to implement teacher mentorship programs and develop a model program that districts may use for implementation.