| Neighbors,
I hope you're having a safe, smooth transition to driving hands-free!
I had the honor this week of joining St. Paul Public School educators with Education Chair Jim Davnie, where we heard from teachers about their need for more ethnic studies and dual language support. As a proud SPPS alumnus, former school teacher and SPPS staff, I know that it's our teachers who propel students to succeed. We need to give those teachers the tools they need to ensure that each and every student has fair and equitable opportunities.
This legislative session, we had success in fighting for historic, sustainable investments in our schools. We provided funding to increase the number of teachers of color from K-12 through higher education, so that all students can have a role model and leader that looks like them.
We also fought to expand funding for English Language Learners (ELL) from $700 to $1,400 per student. Commitment to equity and fairness to ALL Minnesotans means we need to lift up ELL students with an education that prepares them for post-secondary opportunities and success outside the classroom. We didn't get the outcome we fought for, but will continue to address this challenge.
To strengthen our legacy of equity and support for the arts this session, we provided funding for language preservation and immersion, for organizations that alleviate racial disparities, and funding to make sure under-served children have access to outdoor programs. Our commitment to arts and heritage are part of what makes Minnesota an equitable and welcoming community.
Have a great rest of your weekend!
Sincerely,
Rep. Jay Xiong
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