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2023 Legislative Updates: Exemptions to Testing Requirements

The 2023 Legislative Session ended on May 22.

6/12/2023 8:31:38 AM

June 9, 2023

Legislative Updates

Minnesota Capitol BuildingThe 2023 Legislative Session ended on May 22. A number of statutory changes were made that impact teacher licensure, teacher preparation, grant recipients, and educational partners, including:

  • Modifications to tiered licensure, including:
    • The expanded BA exemption for visual and performing artists and native speakers of a world language,
    • Changes to testing requirements (see more below),
  • A new substitute teaching pilot program,
  • The new Heritage Language Licensure Pathway program,
  • Changes to PELSB's board membership, and
  • Funding for the licensure via portfolio platform, the Teacher Recruitment and Marketing Campaign, and alternative pathways to licensure.

Exemptions to Testing Requirements

Exemptions for Content and Pedagogy Exams

Effective August 1, teachers seeking a Tier 3 and Tier 4 license may be exempt from meeting Minnesota testing requirements. Teachers will no longer need content and/or pedagogy exams if one of the following are met:

  • The teacher has completed a Minnesota state-approved teacher preparation program,
  • The teacher has been recommended for licensure via portfolio, or
  • The teacher has completed an out-of-state teacher preparation program and has completed all licensure testing in that state (or no testing was required).
Use this /pelsb/assets/Testing%20Flow%20Chart_tcm1113-593502.pdfflow chart to see whether you will need to take content or pedagogy exams. Note: The flow chart is meant to offer common examples or scenarios that may lead to an exemption from exams. PELSB encourages candidates to submit an application to our office and we will reach out if any additional testing materials are needed.

Removal of Basic Skills Exams

Also starting August 1, teachers seeking a Tier 4 license will no longer be required to demonstrate passing scores on a basic skills exam in reading, writing, and math.

Application Instructions

PELSB is now accepting applications for teachers who qualify for a Tier 3 or Tier 4 license based on testing exemptions and changes.  Teachers seeking their initial license can use PELSB’s online system to start the application process. For teachers who already hold a license with PELSB, please use a paper application. 

Legislative Changes

General