MN HF3332

Establishes a pilot project for fiscal year 2017 to help struggling students in grades 3 to 5 read at grade level using a research-based intervention software program that uses singing to improve reading ability.

Commissioner of education shall grant funds to a qualified nonprofit organization to serve three Minnesota public elementary schools, one each located in urban, suburban, and greater Minnesota districts.

Participating schools must be selected based on the number and percentage of students scoring below grade level on Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment in reading who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals, staff interest in participating, and availability of a computer lab.

Nonprofit organization receiving the grant must submit a report by February 1, 2017, to legislative committees comparing reading gains of participating students to non-participating students and recommending whether to continue or expand the project.

Appropriates $105,000 from the general fund to the commissioner of education, with $5,000 allocated for administrative costs, effective July 1, 2016.