MN HF4098

Establishes the Innovation Research Zone Program allowing school districts and charter schools to partner with postsecondary institutions and other organizations to research and implement innovative education models aligned with 21st century workforce requirements.

Authorizes partnerships to implement 16 categories of innovative practices including personalized learning, competency-based progression, real-world inquiry-based learning, alternative assessments, and career/technical education pathways.

Grants approved innovation research zone partners exemptions from specified state laws and rules including online learning program approval requirements, instructional hour requirements, and flexible school year program rules.

Establishes a 9-member Innovation Research Zone Advisory Panel appointed by education organizations and the Office of Higher Education to review and recommend approval of partnership plans submitted to the commissioner.

Limits commissioner approval to up to 6 innovation research zone plans in the seven-county metropolitan area and up to 6 plans in greater Minnesota, with authority to suspend or terminate partnerships that fail to implement approved plans.