MN HF589

Board of Teaching must adopt rules by January 1, 2016, allowing applicants to demonstrate qualifications for licensure through out-of-state teaching licenses, state-approved teacher preparation programs, teaching experience, content knowledge, or documented student growth.

Expands teacher license reciprocity by allowing applicants with out-of-state teaching licenses in similar content fields to obtain Minnesota licenses if they hold a bachelor's degree and have completed approved teacher preparation programs or have at least two years of teaching experience.

Alternative teacher preparation programs may issue two-year limited-term licenses (renewable for one additional year) and allow candidates to demonstrate competency through portfolios, teaching experience, evaluations, and nontraditional assessment methods.

Board may issue up to three one-year temporary teaching licenses to out-of-state teachers who have not completed all required exams or pedagogical components, allowing them time to meet Minnesota standards.

Nonnative English speakers verified by Minnesota school district or higher education personnel are exempt from reading, writing, and mathematics skills examination requirements if applying to teach in their native language or world language instruction.