To the editor:
As Minnesota’s youngsters kick off a new school year, I can think of no better time to reflect on the progress the DFL-led legislature made this year to help every child reach his or her full potential.
We passed a new state budget that revitalizes our commitment to providing all students with a top-notch public education. Instead of borrowing billions from our schools like the GOP-controlled legislature did in 2011, DFLers increased funding for schools, expanded scholarships to help moms and dads send their kids to preschool, and made optional all-day Kindergarten available to every child free of charge starting in 2014.
Those kinds of investments in our youngsters are a recipe for economic growth and long-lasting shared prosperity. Building a highly-educated workforce gives Minnesota a competitive edge in an increasingly global economy. And it helps attract and retain major employers that provide our people with good jobs that allow them to support their families.
Here is a quick look at the new state budget’s positive impact on schools in our region.
Grand Rapids School District:
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Over $474,000 ($120 per student) in new funding this school year and over $4.3 million ($1,080 per student) next year.
Greenway School District:
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Over $135,000 ($128 per student) in new funding this school year and over $847,000 ($799 per student) next year.
Pine River-Backus School District:
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Over $125,000 ($138 per student) in new funding this school year and over $635,000 ($684 per student) next year.
Deer River School District:
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Over $124,000 ($140 per student) in new funding this school year and over $693,000 ($766 per student) next year.
Northland Community Schools:
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Over $54,000 ($157 per student) in new funding this school year and over $191,000 ($564 per student) next year.
Nashwauk-Keewatin School District:
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Over $74,000 ($131 per student) in new funding this school year and over $258,000 ($455 per student) next year.
I wish the very best for your son or daughter in the new school year. And best of luck to all our sports teams and students participating in extracurricular activities!
Sincerely,
Tom Anzelc
State Representative, District 5B