Latest news with #MinnesotaDepartmentofEducation
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Minnesota schools rush toward levies as $6.8 billion in US funding remains frozen
Why Minnesota districts are rushing toward levies amid a $6.8 billion US funding freeze. (AI Image) Minnesota's public schools are bracing for a financial crisis after the Trump administration announced a freeze on nearly $6.8 billion in federal education funding. As districts across the state face immediate budget shortfalls, many are turning to local levies as a last-resort solution to fill the growing gap. According to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), the state stands to lose $74 million in federal K–12 funding. The withheld funds were previously approved by Congress and were expected to be distributed on July 1. However, the US Department of Education sent a brief notification—through a no-reply email—stating that grant awards for several programs are under review due to the change in administrations. Funding earmarked for critical programs now in limbo Most of the frozen funds were designated for essential educational programs, including support for English learners, teacher development, adult literacy, and summer learning. Without this money, schools are scrambling to identify other revenue sources, as reported by KARE 11. In response to the unexpected freeze, many districts are considering levies to stabilize their finances. Sources told KARE 11 that three times as many Minnesota districts as usual are now exploring this option. Among them is the state's largest district, Anoka-Hennepin, which is facing a $13 million budget shortfall and could lose $1.6 million due to the federal freeze. Parents and leaders push for urgent action In the Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, parent advocate Dawn Lenio emphasized the urgency of placing a levy on the November ballot. 'I think it would be really important to get a levy on the ballot as soon as this November, especially with funding from the federal level potentially being at risk,' she told KARE 11. Lenio, who has two children in the district and previously led a failed levy campaign, criticized the current school board for not taking quicker action. 'Our current school board, it feels like they're more focused on policy than actually helping to do the work the district needs them to do to get our budget under control,' she said, as quoted by KARE 11. The district is now facing a $4 million deficit, and the superintendent has presented a detailed timeline for the board to consider a levy. But the window is tight: the board must decide by the end of the month. Districts voice concern over federal silence Anoka-Hennepin's newly appointed teacher union president, John Wolhaupter, told KARE 11 that while levies have been discussed, 'Right now that's not something that's been on the table.' He added that the core issue is the state's failure to meet its education funding responsibilities. In a written statement to KARE 11, Anoka-Hennepin Superintendent Cory McIntyre called the freeze 'an unfortunate situation' and said it would impact critical academic and behavioral support services. The US Department of Education has not responded to further requests for comment. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
UPI
27-06-2025
- Politics
- UPI
HHS investigates trans athlete on Minn. high school softball team
The Department of Health and Human Services has opened an investigation into Minnesota after a transgender teenager played on a girls' high school softball team. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI | License Photo June 27 (UPI) -- The Department of Health and Human Services has opened a civil rights investigation into the Minnesota Department of Education over a transgender teenager competing on a girls' softball team. The investigation, announced Thursday, is the latest from the Trump administration connected to the teenager from Champlin Park High School competing in the girls' Minnesota State High School League. The team earlier this month won the 2025 State Tournament. HHS said in a statement Thursday that it is investigating the Minnesota Department of Education and the MSHSL under Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in education programs and activities of HHS funding recipients. It is seeking see if the state's policies violated federal civil rights laws. "The investigation will examine whether Minnesota engaged in discrimination on the basis of sex by allowing male athletes to compete on sports teams reserved for females," the statement said. The federal Department of Justice and the Department of Education have already opened investigations related to the transgender teenager's participation in the sports league. The effort to ban transgender girls from girls' sports teams has been a Republican effort for years and part of a larger movement targeting the LGBT community, which gained a federal partner under the Trump administration. In early February, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports to ensure transgender women and girls do not play on women or women's or girls' sports sports teams. Proponents of the ban argue that allowing transgender females in girls' and women's sports gives them an unfair advantage while being discriminatory to athletes who were born female. Critics, meanwhile, contend that the science does not support claims that transgender girls have an unfair advantage, that this is a non-issue given how few transgender athletes there are and that transgender athletes have the right to compete alongside their peers. The American Academy of Pediatrics has also voiced support for transgender athletes participating in sports competitions that align with their gender identity, stating it "helps youth develop self-esteem, correlates positively with overall mental health, and appears to have a protective effect against suicide.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Glenville-Emmons moving forward with $24.4M bond referendum in August
Jun. 12—The Glenville-Emmons School District is moving forward with a bond referendum in August that will ask voters to consider a $24.425 million bond to fund facilities improvements at its existing buildings instead of building new as previously considered. Improvements would include a secure elementary entrance, upgraded Career and Technical Education spaces, ADA accessibility updates, asbestos removal and repairs to HVAC, roofing and water systems, according to a press release. The bond proposal represents priorities shared by community members during and after the failed 2023 referendum, the district stated. "This plan is different because it reflects the current sentiments and priorities of our community," said school board Chairwoman Tabitha Page. "While the previous referendum in 2023 was based on community feedback at that time, we have shifted our focus to addressing deferred maintenance projects and making the most of our existing facilities. This is a more practical and affordable path forward that still meets our students' needs." She said the referendum reflects the core values of their rural community, including responsibility, stewardship and a deep commitment to one another. "As a board, we are dedicated to ensuring that our schools remain strong, safe and equipped to provide high-quality education for generations to come," she said. A press release states the improvements focus on three key areas: —Healthy and safe learning environments with better air quality, upgraded HVAC, ADA accessibility, lead remediation in water systems, asbestos abatement and a safer, more secure entrance at the elementary school. —Relevant, updated classrooms that support hands-on learning in Career and Technical Education (CTE), agriculture and the trades, reflecting careers and life skills valued in the community. —A sustainable investment that protects our existing schools and strengthens the district's ability to serve students into the future. The proposal was reviewed and approved by the Minnesota Department of Education, and copies of the state's review and comment summary are available from the district upon request. The district will host open house and building tours ahead of the referendum, where attendees will hear a presentation on the referendum and get a facility tour highlighting key concerns and project scope areas. They will also have the opportunity to ask questions of district leadership. These are scheduled for 5:30 to 7 p.m. July 10, July 24 and Aug. 6. The July 10 and Aug. 6 dates will be at Glenville-Emmons Elementary School, while the July 24 date will be at the high school. The district also has a referendum website at with more information about the project scope and tax impact. Early voting begins June 27 and runs through Aug. 11.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Beltrami County graduation rate declines amidst historic statewide increase
May 12—BEMIDJI — The class of 2024 has earned bragging rights for having the highest graduation rate in recorded Minnesota history. Based on results released by the Minnesota Department of Education on May 7, a total of 59,720 students — 84.2% of the 2024 graduating class overall — earned their diplomas across the state and marked a nearly 1% increase from the 2023 class rate of 83.3%. Increases were reported across nearly every ethnic category, including students identifying as American Indian, Asian, Black, Hispanic or Latino, as well as white students. Rates also increased for English learners, students from low-income families and those receiving special education services. "The students of the class of 2024 worked hard and overcame challenges to achieve this milestone," Commissioner Willie Jett said in a release. "I am thrilled to see the success of many of our student groups — especially those most at risk — and a closing of the achievement gap as we work to make sure every student, of every background, zip code, and ability has access to a world-class education." Amidst these improvements, the release also noted mounting threats from the federal government to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, uproot federal education investments and roll back essential support for vulnerable students. The department's investments provide support, including: * $256 million for students with disabilities * $192 million for students from low-income backgrounds * $27 million for academic enrichment * $6 million for students in rural schools * $38 million to support children living on military bases or tribal lands * $100 million for Career and Technical Education workforce development programs "In the face of instability from the federal government, the MDE remains committed to supporting students and schools," the release said. While the state trended upward, Beltrami County saw a slight decline from 65.8% in 2023 to 64.4% in 2024. Graduating 407 out of 632 students, 2024's graduating class still saw a higher graduation rate compared to the 61.7% of students for 2022. The county's drop-out rate increased from 10.7% in 2023 to 16.1% in 2024, remaining higher than 2022's drop-out rate of 11.4%. Often used as an indicator for low-income students, those eligible for free or reduced lunches saw a very slight decrease in graduation from 51.2% in 2023 to 50.7%. American Indian students improved upon 2023's graduation rate, clocking in at 40.2% compared to the 2023 class' 38.8%. Similar to last year, female graduates ranked above their male counterparts at 67.1% and 61.9%, respectively. Both groups trended downward from 2023, with respective graduation rates of 67.5% and 64.2%. After a 7.3% increase between 2022 and 2023, Bemidji Area Schools experienced a decline from 2023's 77.6% graduation rate to 2024's rate of 74.8%. A total of 288 students out of 385 graduated within four years, while 53 dropped out and 23 continued to earn their diplomas beyond a four-year timeline. Students receiving free and reduced lunches came in below the district average and also experienced a decrease from 2023's graduation rate of 61.2% to 60.6%. Male students experienced a sharper decline from 2023 compared to their female counterparts. Males in 2024 graduated at 71.4% compared to 75.6% in 2023, and 2024 females graduated at 78.3% compared to 79.4% in 2023. American Indian graduates experienced a rate increase from 2023, clocking in at 53.1% from 52% respectively. For charter schools, TrekNorth Junior and Senior High School saw noticeable improvement with 94.6% of all students graduating in 2024, up from 83.9% in 2023. While Voyageurs Expeditionary School did not show four-year graduation rates for 2023, it reported a 31.3% graduation rate for 2024. A total of five students graduated, while four dropped out, five continued their education and two were reported under the "unknown" category, which tracks students who were either incorrectly reported or not reported as enrolled in another district. After experiencing a considerable decline from 2022, Cass Lake-Bena Public Schools saw a slight improvement, graduating 56.3% in 2024 and 50.6% in 2023. Their rate in 2023 marked a decline from 83.1% in 2022. Red Lake Public Schools showed a 22.2% four-year graduation rate, down from 29.9% in 2023. After a roughly 8% decline from 2022, Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School essentially broke even with its 2023 rate of 57.1%. A complete list of graduation rates for schools, districts and counties across the state can be found on the Minnesota Department of Education's website.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Beltrami County graduation rate declines amidst historic statewide increase
May 12—BEMIDJI — The class of 2024 has earned bragging rights for having the highest graduation rate in recorded Minnesota history. Based on results released by the Minnesota Department of Education on May 7, a total of 59,720 students — 84.2% of the 2024 graduating class overall — earned their diplomas across the state and marked a nearly 1% increase from the 2023 class rate of 83.3%. Increases were reported across nearly every ethnic category, including students identifying as American Indian, Asian, Black, Hispanic or Latino, as well as white students. Rates also increased for English learners, students from low-income families and those receiving special education services. "The students of the class of 2024 worked hard and overcame challenges to achieve this milestone," Commissioner Willie Jett said in a release. "I am thrilled to see the success of many of our student groups — especially those most at risk — and a closing of the achievement gap as we work to make sure every student, of every background, zip code, and ability has access to a world-class education." Amidst these improvements, the release also noted mounting threats from the federal government to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, uproot federal education investments and roll back essential support for vulnerable students. The department's investments provide support, including: * $256 million for students with disabilities * $192 million for students from low-income backgrounds * $27 million for academic enrichment * $6 million for students in rural schools * $38 million to support children living on military bases or tribal lands * $100 million for Career and Technical Education workforce development programs "In the face of instability from the federal government, the MDE remains committed to supporting students and schools," the release said. While the state trended upward, Beltrami County saw a slight decline from 65.8% in 2023 to 64.4% in 2024. Graduating 407 out of 632 students, 2024's graduating class still saw a higher graduation rate compared to the 61.7% of students for 2022. The county's drop-out rate increased from 10.7% in 2023 to 16.1% in 2024, remaining higher than 2022's drop-out rate of 11.4%. Often used as an indicator for low-income students, those eligible for free or reduced lunches saw a very slight decrease in graduation from 51.2% in 2023 to 50.7%. American Indian students improved upon 2023's graduation rate, clocking in at 40.2% compared to the 2023 class' 38.8%. Similar to last year, female graduates ranked above their male counterparts at 67.1% and 61.9%, respectively. Both groups trended downward from 2023, with respective graduation rates of 67.5% and 64.2%. After a 7.3% increase between 2022 and 2023, Bemidji Area Schools experienced a decline from 2023's 77.6% graduation rate to 2024's rate of 74.8%. A total of 288 students out of 385 graduated within four years, while 53 dropped out and 23 continued to earn their diplomas beyond a four-year timeline. Students receiving free and reduced lunches came in below the district average and also experienced a decrease from 2023's graduation rate of 61.2% to 60.6%. Male students experienced a sharper decline from 2023 compared to their female counterparts. Males in 2024 graduated at 71.4% compared to 75.6% in 2023, and 2024 females graduated at 78.3% compared to 79.4% in 2023. American Indian graduates experienced a rate increase from 2023, clocking in at 53.1% from 52% respectively. For charter schools, TrekNorth Junior and Senior High School saw noticeable improvement with 94.6% of all students graduating in 2024, up from 83.9% in 2023. While Voyageurs Expeditionary School did not show four-year graduation rates for 2023, it reported a 31.3% graduation rate for 2024. A total of five students graduated, while four dropped out, five continued their education and two were reported under the "unknown" category, which tracks students who were either incorrectly reported or not reported as enrolled in another district. After experiencing a considerable decline from 2022, Cass Lake-Bena Public Schools saw a slight improvement, graduating 56.3% in 2024 and 50.6% in 2023. Their rate in 2023 marked a decline from 83.1% in 2022. Red Lake Public Schools showed a 22.2% four-year graduation rate, down from 29.9% in 2023. After a roughly 8% decline from 2022, Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School essentially broke even with its 2023 rate of 57.1%. A complete list of graduation rates for schools, districts and counties across the state can be found on the Minnesota Department of Education's website.
