H.F. 2586 Summary

• Amends statewide testing requirements to include computer-adaptive reading and mathematics assessments administered annually to grades 3 through 8, aligned with state academic standards and including multiple choice questions.

• Establishes college and career readiness requirements for students, including opportunities to participate in nationally normed college entrance exams in grades 11-12, with the state funding the cost one time per student.

• Requires the Chancellor of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to identify benchmark scores on Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) for math and reading indicating college readiness, intended as guidelines to inform students, families, and teachers about student preparation.

• Mandates schools and districts use annual career exploration activities beginning no later than grade 9 to help students and families plan for postsecondary education or careers based on student interests, aptitudes, and aspirations.

• Prohibits state colleges and universities from requiring remedial noncredit courses in a subject area for individuals who have received a college-ready MCA score in that subject, effective beginning the 2018-2019 school year.