Reading Clock Hour Requirements
How Should Teachers Meet the New Clock Hour Requirements in Reading?
The Department has been asked by districts for guidance in implementing the new state law requiring all teachers renewing their licenses to include additional reading preparation.
What does the law say must be included?
Teachers must have in-service preparation in scientifically based reading instruction, which the law identifies as: “instruction and practice in phonemic awareness, phonics and other word-recognition skills, and guided oral reading for beginning readers, as well as extensive silent reading, vocabulary instruction, instruction in comprehension, and instruction that fosters understanding and higher-order thinking for readers of all ages and proficiency levels.” (MN Statute 122A.06, Subd. 4)
When is the new requirement effective?
The Board of Teaching requires this additional reading preparation “effective for renewal of professional licenses, which expire on June 30, 2004, and after…” (MN Rule 8710.7200, Subp. 2). Thus, all upcoming licensure renewals must show evidence of this additional preparation.
Which professional development activities will meet this requirement?
Workshops, conferences, onsite staff development and/or university courses reflecting comprehensive, scientifically based research in reading instruction, and which may include one or more of the following:
Instruction and practice in phonemic awareness
Phonics and other word-recognition skills
Guided oral reading for beginning readers
Vocabulary instruction
Instruction in fostering understanding and higher-order thinking for readers of all ages and proficiency levels
Reading in the content areas
Specific reading strategies to impact comprehension
Current research and best practices in reading research and instruction
What is the district’s responsibility in implementing this requirement?
Licensure renewal is a process that typically occurs in five-year intervals; local continuing education committee’s sign-off that all requirements prescribed in statute and rule have been met. The specific number of clock hours dedicated to reading meeting the elements outlined above may vary, depending upon the teaching assignment. Reading instruction is a responsibility shared by all teachers regardless of level or content. However, the need may be greater for classroom and content area teachers who use a vast amount of text in their instructional delivery. Legislation intentionally provides latitude in this matter to allow local decision-making. District level collaboration in deciding the needs and goals of district employees in the area of reading instruction may include input from administration and staff, as well as input from reading specialists at the state and local level. Districts are charged with determining the requirements which will best support quality reading instructional practices and successfully impact student reading achievement within their district.
How does this requirement relate to the requirements of No Child Left Behind (NCLB)?
NCLB requires that states work with school districts to improve their professional development systems for teachers, and places a particular emphasis on the improvement of reading skills in classrooms. The Department is creating additional resources and initiatives to assist districts. In the meantime, implementation of the new continuing education reading requirement is a first step in complying with the federal mandate to improve classroom reading instruction.
Whom may I contact if I have more questions on how to create a reading clock hour plan in your district?
Bonnie D. Houck, Reading Specialist
Minnesota Department of Education:
Academic Standards and Professional Development
1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville, MN 55113
Whom may I contact if I have other questions on Minnesota Rule 8710.7200. Subpart 2?
Karen Balmer
Board of Teaching
1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville MN 55113
651-582-8888
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