The 2023 state legislature created a new renewal requirement on the cultural heritage and contemporary contributions of American Indians, with particular emphasis on Minnesota Tribal Nations.

When does this renewal requirement go into effect? 

This new renewal requirement is effective for all teachers with a Tier 1 or Tier 2 license issued after August 1, 2023.

This new renewal requirement is effective for teachers with a Tier 3 or Tier 4 license renewing after January 1, 2024. Until rulemaking is adopted, continuing education committees will report completion of this requirement through the Cultural Competency mandatory component in the clock hour renewal system. 

What topics must be covered by this training? 

State law specifies that the renewal training must cover cultural heritage and contemporary contributions of American Indians, with particular emphasis on Minnesota Tribal Nations.

PELSB will go through the rulemaking process to determine the details and required components for this renewal training. Until rulemaking is complete, teachers may meet this new renewal requirement through the Cultural Competency renewal training, which includes training on serving American Indian and Alaskan native students. Teachers are welcome, and encouraged, to take a more robust training on American Indian History and Culture.  

Once rulemaking is complete, the renewal requirement on American Indian History and Culture will be separate from the requirement for Cultural Competency. There will be a transition period to allow districts to develop resources for teachers.  

Next Steps

PELSB will initiate a rulemaking project in order to further clarify the required topics and components of this new renewal requirement. This rulemaking will include extensive stakeholder input, especially from Tribal Nations and indigenous educators and communities. Please consider subscribing to PELSB's rulemaking listserv to learn how to become involved. 

Statutory Reference

The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board must adopt rules that require all licensed teachers renewing their license under sections 122A.181 to 122A.184 to include in the renewal requirements professional development in the cultural heritage and contemporary contributions of American Indians, with particular emphasis on Minnesota Tribal Nations. 

Laws of Minnesota 2023, chapter 55, article 5, section 42, subd. 7