MN SF3276

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.

Requires the commissioner of education to grant funds to a qualified nonprofit organization to provide three Minnesota public elementary schools (located in urban, suburban, and greater Minnesota districts) with software, technical training, professional development, and reading assessments developed by the University of Minnesota.

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

Requires the nonprofit organization to submit a report to legislature committees by February 1, 2017, comparing reading gains between participating and non-participating schools and recommending whether to continue or expand the project.

Appropriates $105,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2017, with $5,000 allocated for commissioner administrative costs and the remainder for the grant to schools.