MN SF4011

Teacher preparation programs approved by the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board must require supervised early literacy field experience aligned to evidence-based reading practices for candidates preparing to teach early literacy, starting with the 2027-2028 school year.

Field experience must be integrated with reading instruction coursework and occur primarily within school buildings during the instructional day, with waivers available for unique program models or documented hardship.

The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board must adopt rules defining which licensure areas require the field experience, establishing scope and outcome expectations, and requiring observation with actionable feedback.

General fund appropriation to the Department of Education in fiscal year 2027 for rulemaking (specific dollar amount left blank in bill).

Effective date is July 1, 2026.