MN HF394

Creates a service-learning specialist position in the Department of Education effective July 1, 2015, to advance evidence-based service learning, coordinate grants, and provide technical assistance to school districts and community partners.

Establishes a five-year innovative incubator service-learning grant program (2015-2020) awarding up to 32 grants of $50,000 each to eligible school-community partnerships serving early childhood through grade 12 students.

Requires grant partnerships to include enrolled students, at least two school district employees, and eligible community-based organizations or government units working collaboratively on student-designed, student-led service projects.

Mandates the commissioner evaluate program effectiveness based on student academic achievement, school engagement, graduation rates, and community outcomes, with interim progress reports due February 15, 2019, and final report by February 15, 2021.

Appropriates $300,000 annually for fiscal years 2016-2017 for the specialist position and $800,000 annually for the same period for grant awards, with unused funds carrying forward.

Authorizes the Board of Teaching to create a task force by February 15, 2016, to recommend changes to teacher preparation and licensure requirements regarding service learning.