Dayton signs Kieffer teacher bill into law

A bill authored by Rep. Andrea Kieffer that clamps down on Minnesota teaching requirements became law today.

Gov. Mark Dayton signed the Woodbury Republican’s bill, which requires Minnesota teachers to pass a basic skills test before going into classrooms.

The new law requires teacher candidates to pass a basic skills exam in order to receive a state teaching license.

Current law requires Minnesota colleges and universities that offer a teacher preparation program to provide remedial assistance and academic support to teacher candidates that do not pass the basic skills exam.

Dayton's office said he rejected a similar bill last year. According to a press release, this year's legislation cleared hurdles after enacting changes during negotiations with lawmakers, the Dayton administration and "key stakeholder groups."

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