SF619 Summary: Strengthening the Teachers of Color Act

• Establishes goal to increase percentage of teachers of color and American Indian teachers by at least two percentage points annually by 2040 to reflect student diversity

• Requires school boards to adopt strategic plans addressing ethnic studies curriculum, antiracist education, and culturally sustaining practices; prohibits discrimination against teachers for incorporating contributions by people from federally protected classes

• Bans American Indian mascots in public schools by June 30, 2024 unless approved by all eleven federally recognized Minnesota tribal nations; allows students to wear tribal regalia at graduation ceremonies

• Increases hiring bonuses for teachers of color and American Indian teachers (minimum $4,000-$8,000 depending on shortage areas); streamlines teacher licensing for candidates from historically Black colleges, tribal colleges, and Hispanic-serving institutions

• Appropriates $79 million across fiscal years 2024-2025 for teacher recruitment, mentorship, retention, and loan repayment programs focused on building a racially and ethnically diverse educator workforce