Minnesota Senate debates increased teachers of color act to address achievement gaps

The Minnesota Senate's Committee on Education Finance convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the Increased Teachers of Color Act. The meeting highlighted ongoing challenges in addressing the state's opportunity and achievement gaps, particularly emphasizing the importance of teacher diversity in K-12 education.

The session began with a presentation on the proposed changes to the act, which aims to enhance support for teachers of color and American Indian teachers. The lead author of the bill noted that while the percentage of teachers of color has increased from 3.8% in 2017 to 7.3% today, this growth is not keeping pace with the rising diversity among students, which has grown from 30% to 39% over the same period. The goal remains for Minnesota's teaching workforce to reflect its student population by 2024.

Key provisions of the bill include the continuation and strengthening of three effective programs designed to support aspiring teachers of color. A proposed investment of $10 million per fiscal year would provide approximately 1,000 scholarships annually, allowing candidates to utilize grants over a four-year period instead of two. This initiative aims to foster a more inclusive educational environment and address the financial barriers faced by prospective teachers.

Testimonies from several educators underscored the impact of having teachers of color in the classroom. Tracy Byrd, the 2024 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, shared her personal journey and the importance of representation in education. She emphasized that all students benefit from diverse role models, which can enhance their learning experiences and prepare them for a multicultural society.

Eva Gallegos, a scholarship recipient, recounted her experiences as an immigrant and the lack of teachers who reflected her background. She expressed gratitude for the financial support that enabled her to pursue a teaching career, highlighting the program's potential to inspire future generations of students.

Liddy Latrell, another teacher candidate, spoke about her commitment to her students and the sacrifices she has made to become an educator. She advocated for continued funding for scholarship programs, emphasizing their role in empowering diverse educators who can connect with and inspire their students.

The meeting concluded with a call for questions and comments from committee members, indicating a collaborative effort to refine and advance the proposed legislation. The discussions underscored a shared commitment to improving educational equity in Minnesota through increased support for teachers of color.