Dear Neighbors,
We just wrapped up a 13-hour floor session last night, and I’m a little tired from the late debate, but appreciative for the chance to be part of the dialogue. Yesterday’s session capped off a busy week where we passed three omnibus bills to help our state.
Teaching Provision
Earlier this week, we passed a bill containing education finance, policy, and higher education provisions. We approved the bill on a broad bipartisan vote of 84-46, and I’m happy to see the direction our schools are headed.
Like many of you, I know the value of great schools in Bloomington. I’m a Kennedy grad, and know my kids will receive the same great education as I did years ago. Recently, I chatted with a number of Bloomington teachers about a program called “Grow Your Own” to help diversify our teaching ranks, and continue to bring in the best educators.
The initiative is an alternative pathway to teacher licensure for classroom assistants and other support staff. The potential teachers would work side-by-side with licensed teachers to help prepare staff to take over a classroom of their own someday. This eliminates barriers for some prospective teachers who can’t afford to go back to school or take 12 weeks off of work to student teach. We included funding for this program in our education bill.
Higher Education Opportunities
You might remember from last week’s update when I mentioned the BUILD (Bethel University Inclusive Learning and Development) taking place at my alma mater. The initiative helps students with intellectual disabilities attend colleges and universities to earn a two-year degree. The program is working so well at Bethel, we included a provision to start to expand this to other college campuses in Minnesota. I’m proud to include this Bethel-led program in the education bill we passed this week.
Meet-and-Greet
Tomorrow marks another chance to meet with me and discuss any issues that are important to you. The free event is TOMORROW, Saturday, April 30 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Once again, the event will be located at Mugshots Coffee Company, 10518 France Ave S, Bloomington.
If you can’t make it to Mugshots, you can always call or email my office. I’ve enjoyed hearing your opinion, and am always open to discussing any questions you might have.
Have a great weekend!
Chad