MN SF959

Requires teacher preparation programs to provide a school year-long student teaching program combining clinical opportunities, academic coursework, mentorship, coaching, assessment, and structured learning experiences.

Mandates teacher preparation programs include content-specific, performance-based assessments measuring candidates in three areas: planning for instruction and assessment; engaging students and supporting learning; and assessing student learning.

Requires all teacher candidates to complete preparation in English language development and content instruction for English learners as a condition for initial licensure.

Appropriates $350,000 in fiscal year 2016 to Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees to award up to two pilot grants for school year-long student teaching programs at system institutions.

Requires Board of Trustees to report to legislature by March 1, 2016, on pilot grant recipients' experiences with the school year-long student teaching program.