HF 2331 - Increase Teachers of Color Act

• Aims to double the percentage of teachers of color and American Indian teachers in Minnesota from 4% to 8% while ensuring 20% of teacher preparation candidates are of color or American Indian by 2020

• Requires school districts to include equitable teacher distribution and diverse staff retention in strategic plans, and mandates district advisory committees reflect community diversity

• Modifies teacher licensure requirements to allow candidates to earn professional three-year licenses through alternative pathways and expands remedial support for those not initially passing skills exams

• Increases teacher shortage loan forgiveness from $1,000 to $2,000 annually and expands eligibility to include teachers of color and American Indian teachers in underrepresented racial and ethnic groups

• Appropriates $2.5 million for fiscal year 2018 for teacher shortage loan forgiveness and funding for Grow Your Own programs, mentoring initiatives, inclusive school climate grants, and teacher recruitment marketing campaigns targeting educators of color and American Indian teachers