Tell State Lawmakers: Increase Compensation for READ Act Professional Learning

We, the undersigned, urge Minnesota state lawmakers to increase funding for districts to adequately compensate educators for completing the professional learning (PL) required under the READ Act.

The READ Act, with its emphasis on evidence-based reading instruction, is a critical step forward. However, a recent survey of Minnesota educators reveals that lack of sufficient compensation for curriculum-aligned PL outside of school hours is the top barrier to effective implementation. More than one in four educators cite PL pay as a major challenge—especially given their already packed schedules.

Research confirms that effective PL is essential for the READ Act to succeed. To fully realize its impact, educators must be adequately compensated for their time to ensure:
• No financial or logistical barriers prevent participation in PL.
• Educators are fully engaged in implementing evidence-based instruction.
• High-quality training is incentivized, maximizing its benefits.
• Teachers’ time outside the school day is respected and valued.

These outcomes—critical to the READ Act’s success—are only possible if we recognize and fairly compensate educators for their investment in student success.

We call on state leaders to stand with teachers and strengthen the READ Act’s impact by increasing funding for PL compensation. The READ Act is too important to cut corners—94% of educators believe their new curriculum can lead to higher student achievement with the right time and support. Let’s invest in educators and make Minnesota a national model for literacy success.